Acne is most often associated with the teenage years, but men and women can struggle with unsightly pimples and an imperfect complexion much later in life too. By narrowing down what’s causing your acne, you can more easily prevent it and treat it early.
Here are the top causes of acne on the skin, as well as prevention tips and natural treatment strategies to feel more confident in the skin you’re in.
Producing Excess Oil
If your skin naturally produces too much oil, this could lead to the formation of pimples. Certain parts of the body have the most oil glands, such as the face, upper back, chest, and shoulders.
Clogged Hair Follicles
Hair follicles can become clogged by both oil and dead skin cells. When this clogging occurs, acne can result.
Bacteria on the Skin
Acne forms when a pore of the skin is filled with bacteria and oil. The type of bacteria that contributes to pimples is called “propionibacterium acnes.”
Hormone Changes
Hormone changes take place at various phases of life, such as puberty, during pregnancy, and at menopause. However, they can also occur because of changes in medications you are taking, such as stopping birth control pills.
Cosmetic Products
Not all cosmetic products are the same, and some are greasier than others. As a general rule, stick to natural and organic cosmetics as much as possible reduce your skin’s exposure with chemicals that can cause irritation.
Stress
Stress is a big cause of acne and can make an existing acne problem worse. Reducing stress in your life in a way that works for you can go a long way in helping to reduce and prevent acne.
Menstrual Cycles
Women’s menstrual cycles also play a role in the formation of acne on the skin. Many women notice that they break out more in the few days leading up to their period.
Poor Diet
Eating an unhealthy diet can also contribute to how bad acne gets, which is yet another reason why eating lots of fruits and vegetables is so important. Some of the worst foods to eat if you are prone to acne are refined carbohydrates and sugars, including chips and bread.
Certain Medications
While some medications are prescribed to treat acne, others can actually contribute to it forming in the first place. This is true for drugs that contain androgenic steroids, lithium, or anti-convulsants. If you have noticed more acne after starting a new medication or increasing its dosage, contact your doctor to discuss possible alternatives.
How to Help Acne Naturally
The best prevention strategies begin by washing your face twice per day to get rid of dirt and excess oil. Avoid foods high in sugar and refined carbs and don’t scrub or exfoliate your skin too harshly. Reduce your stresses as much as possible, and frequently wash makeup brushes.
When acne strikes, try Seagate’s Olive Leaf Acne Remedy. It contains powerful, natural homeopathic ingredients with no harmful chemicals in one bottle at a low cost. To use it, apply two to three times per day after washing the face and continue to use it for at least a week after the symptoms disappear.