Common (And Overlooked) Acne Triggers

Hormonal Imbalances Fluctuations in estrogen, progesterone, or androgens (like during periods, PCOS, or perimenopause) can trigger deep, cystic breakouts—especially along the jawline and chin. 

1. Dirty Tools & Habits Not cleaning makeup brushes regularly Touching your face throughout the day Dirty pillowcases or phone screens

2. Over-Exfoliating Too many actives (like acids or retinoids) can disrupt your barrier, leading to inflammation and more breakouts.

3.Hidden Comedogenic Ingredients Even “clean” or natural products can clog pores. Look for ingredients like coconut oil, algae extract, or lanolin.

4. Stress & Diet High stress levels increase cortisol, which stimulates oil production. Diets high in dairy or sugar can also play a role in some people.

5.Not Moisturizing Skipping moisturizer can backfire—even if your skin feels oily. When your skin is dehydrated, it produces more oil to compensate, which can clog pores and worsen breakouts. Use a non-comedogenic, hydrating moisturizer daily. 

What You Can Do: Keep your routine consistent and simple Schedule a professional skin analysis to rule out underlying causes Don’t rely on TikTok trends—what works for someone else may not work for you Add in professional treatments like chemical peels, LED therapy, or extractions for deeper clearing