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The term “acne” encompasses comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), papules (pimples), pustules, cysts, and nodules. These blemishes can manifest on nearly any area of the body, but are most problematic where oil glands are concentrated—on the face, neck, chest, back, and arms.
Although there isn’t clear evidence that eating certain foods causes acne, recent studies have indicated there may be a link between eating a diet rich in high-glycemic foods (e.g., white bread, potatoes, and corn syrup) and dairy may lead to acne flare-ups. This is because these foods can cause your blood sugar and insulin levels to spike as well as cortisol and other hormonal reactions in your body. These responses may stimulate breakouts in some people.
Practicing good daily facial hygiene is an important step for maintaining clear skin, but if you have acne, this doesn’t necessarily mean you aren’t keeping your skin clean enough. In fact, you may develop breakouts from being too harsh on your face, such as scrubbing too hard or using alcohol-based astringents that can irritate your skin. We advise patients to wash their face in the morning and at night using a mild soap and warm water and only apply non-comedogenic products to their skin. If you already have good hygiene habits, your acne may be triggered by another factor, such as hormones, which often requires more than just a good skin care routine.
The most common trigger for acne is hormone fluctuation, especially testosterone. Since teenagers go through puberty, their hormones are at an all-time high, which often translates to frequent acne breakouts in both young men and women.
Even though acne is typically associated with the teenage years, it can still occur in adults. Hormone levels can change at any age, and this is especially common in women during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause.