why does pimples occur on face - #12577
I am really struggling with this crazy break out! Like, just last week my face was clear and now I can't even count how many pimples popped up outta nowhere. It all started after I switched my skincare routine, thinking I could try out a new moisturizer that promised to be “lightweight.” Little did I know, my skin didn't like it or something. I mean, why does pimples occur on face? I wash my face twice daily, and even tried to cut down on junk food, but here we are. I tried squeezing one of the pimples yesterday... such a bad idea, now there’s like a scar forming. Ugh! Also, I read online that stress can trigger breakouts too, and work has been hectic lately. Could that be it? Why does pimples occur on face when I feel like I’m taking care of my skin? I don’t even wear heavy makeup, mainly just a light foundation, but these bumps are ruining everything! I can't help but wonder, is there something in particular in my diet or environment making them worse? Anyone knows why does pimples occur on face sometimes when you least expect it? Any help would be appreciated!
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Doctors’ responses
Pimples, or acne, generally emerge due to a complex interplay of factors that affect the skin’s sebaceous (oil-producing) glands. One primary reason is hormonal changes that increase oil production, clogging pores with excess oil and dead skin cells. These clogged pores can become inflamed due to bacteria, leading to the formation of acne. Introducing a new skincare product might have disrupted this delicate balance, perhaps by introducing ingredients that don’t work well with your skin type, causing irritation or increased oiliness. If your new moisturizer is comedogenic, meaning it tends to clog pores, it might be a culprit in your breakouts. Stress, indeed, can exacerbate acne. It triggers the body to release various stress hormones like cortisol, which can stimulate oil glands. Regarding your diet, while it’s a bit complex to pinpoint exact foods responsible for acne, some people find that dairy products and high-glycemic foods (like sugary snacks and white bread) can make their acne worse. To address the situation, you might consider patch-testing any new skincare products on a small area of your skin before fully incorporating them into your routine. Reassess your skincare routine, focusing on non-comedogenic products. Keep washing your face gently twice a day, but avoid over-washing, as this can irritate and dry out the skin. For any persistent or severe acne, consider consulting a dermatologist who can tailor treatments to your specific skin condition—topical or oral medications might be appropriate. Lastly, do try to manage stress with practical stress-reduction techniques like regular physical activity, mindfulness, or good sleep habits. If you’re seeing scarring, avoid squeezing or picking at acne, as this increases scarring risk and consider looking into products with ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide that help promote clearer skin over time.
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