Often, the question, “Why am I breaking out?” pops up in our minds when we observe a sudden zit or pimple invasion on our face. Breakouts or pimples are mainly linked to the acne problems that many people, especially teenagers and people in their early twenties, have to face. There isn’t always a clear answer to why skin breakouts occur, as they can be subjected to a variety of reasons, from diet and stress to hormonal imbalance and skin type.
Hormonal Imbalance
The most common cause of skin breakout is hormonal imbalance. The surge in certain hormones, especially during puberty and menstruation, can increase the production of sebum, which in turn can cause acne. This is often a primary concern for many teens and women, which makes skincare even more vital during these periods.
Diet
Your diet also plays a significant role in your skin health. Consuming too many sugary or greasy foods can cause a sudden spike in your blood sugar levels, which can cause your skin to produce more oil. This extra oil can block your pores, leading to breakouts. To avoid this, it is recommended that you maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Stress
Another significant factor contributing to skin breakouts is stress. High stress elevates the body’s production of hormones such as cortisol, which can stimulate oil glands and lead to skin inflammation, eventually causing acne. Managing stress through various techniques like yoga, meditation, or simple relaxation techniques can help keep acne at bay.
Skin Care Practices
Unhealthy skin care practices can also lead to breakouts. Some skincare products can irritate the skin, blocking the pores with oil, which results in pimples. Moreover, not washing your face regularly, especially after sweating, can allow dirt, dead skin cells, and oils to accumulate and block the pores, causing breakouts.
Genetics
Genetics also play a part in acne and breakouts. If your parents had acne, it’s likely you may have acne-prone skin as well. In these cases, a specific skincare regimen must be followed to keep breakouts in check.
Renowned plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Amir Tahernia, shares that understanding your skin type is crucial in dealing with breakouts. He stated, “Knowing whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin can help determine the appropriate product or treatment regime to control breakouts.”
Environmental Factors
Environmental factors such as pollution, humidity, and harsh weather can also affect the skin and lead to breakouts. These factors can clog pores and cause skin inflammation and breakouts. To combat this, ensure you clean your skin thoroughly every day and hydrate it appropriately to protect from environmental harm.
Medication Side Effects
Some medications can also cause breakouts as a side effect. Certain drugs, such as those that affect hormonal balance or cause skin dryness, have been linked to acne breakouts. If you suspect your medicine is causing your acne, discuss it with your healthcare provider.
So the next time you find yourself querying, “Why am I breaking out?” remember that there can be many triggers, ranging from hormonal imbalances and stress to diet and improper skincare. Recognizing your specific triggers can be the first step towards better skin health. A consultation with a skincare professional, such as Dr. Amir Tahernia, can help diagnose your skin type and needs and prepare a suitable treatment plan to tackle and prevent future breakouts.