Breakouts are caused by a condition when the hair follicle becomes blocked with a build-up of skin cells and oil. Breakout comes in many forms, Blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. Breakouts can be caused by numerous issues, such as hormonal changes or imbalances, unhealthy diet, stress, excessive oil production, or poor skin hygiene.
Breakouts In Teenagers & Adults
Breakout is most common in teenagers and young adults around the time of puberty. Although the exact cause is still unknown it is believed to be due to hormones called Androgens. Androgens increase in teenagers during puberty. Androgens influence the skin’s oil glands to increase in size and stimulate more sebum (oil) production. Areas that are often affected are, the face, neck back chest, and shoulders.
Teenage breakout is also often linked to diet, with a link to dairy, processed foods, and lack of healthy nutritional veggies and fruit.
Other Contributing Factors:
- Cosmetics that are too oily or pore clogging
- Friction caused by leaning on or rubbing the skin; harsh scrubbing
- Picking or squeezing blemishes
- Pressure from bike helmets, backpacks, or tight collars
- Changing hormone levels in adolescent girls and adult women two to seven days before the start of the menstrual period
- Stress
Our Top Tips To Help Control Your Skin
TIP: Don’t over-wash or use harsh scrubs. Exfoliation is important and can be achieved with the right products for your skin. Look for ingredients like Lactic or Mandelic Acid and Salicylic Acid – these ingredients will effectively exfoliate the skin without overdoing it. Two gentle wash’s a day is enough, once in the morning and then a double cleanse at night – this will help to remove any daily make up and sunscreen, and any dirt or pollutants sitting on the skin’s surface.
TIP: Use oil-free or non-comedogenic products (those that won’t clog pores) on your face.
TIP: Don’t squeeze or pick blemishes. Popping pimples can drive acne bacteria deeper into the skin. Picking can lead to more inflammation and permanent scarring. Try using a spot treatment that will help to clear blemishes faster.
Here are our top lifestyle changes that may help assist you on your skin journey…
- Change your pillowcase and bath towel regularly – even try opting for a silk pillowcase (it will allow your skin to breathe at night and not steal any moisture)
- Sanitise your mobile phone and desk phone if you sit at a desk daily.
- Increase your veggie and fruit intake and stay hydrated with water every day.
- Avoid highly processed and sugary food. Fresh is best.
- Do not over exfoliate – give the skin time to heal and repair.
- Do not touch or pick your breakouts.
Content courtesy of AST
