reason of acne on face - #20658
I am trying to figure out the reason of acne on face because I’ve been struggling with it for the past few months. Like, one day I wake up and my skin is all clear, and the next it feels like a pizza face. Super frustrating, right? I’m in my early 20s and thought I’d left those teenage years behind, ugh. I’ve tried all kinds of over-the-counter creams and wash, but nothing seems to work. It mostly appears on my cheeks and forehead, and sometimes I get super painful cystic acne. I even did some tests to check for hormonal imbalances, thinking that could be the reason of acne on face, but everything came back normal. I’ve also been super stressed lately with work and exams, could that be a factor or is it more about my diet? I’m starting to think maybe I should see a dermatologist, but I wonder if there are any other reasons of acne on face that I might be missing? Anyone have experiences or tips to help me clear this up? Feeling a bit hopeless, not gonna lie.
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Doctors' responses
Acne can be a real tough problem to pin down, especially with the way it can waver from day to day. It’s not unusual for acne to persist into your 20s, even if it’s frustrating. You’re on the right path by getting hormone levels checked—hormonal changes are a common cause—but since those are normal, it’s time to consider other factors. Stress absolutely can contribute by increasing cortisol levels, which subsequently ramps up oil production and inflammation in the skin. Excess oil production can lead to clogged pores, which is one of the main triggers for acne. Your diet might play a role too; high-glycemic foods like sugary snacks and drinks as well as dairy products have been linked to acne outbreaks in some people. A balanced diet with an emphasis on whole foods, sufficient hydration, and avoiding excessive sugar might help mitigate breakouts. Since you’re experiencing cystic acne, which can be painful and might lead to scarring, a visit to the dermatologist is definitely a good step. They can prescribe treatments like topical retinoids or oral antibiotics that might be more effective than OTC options. In some cases, isotretinoin (commonly known as Accutane) is prescribed, especially for severe cystic acne, though long-term commitment and supervision are needed due to potential side effects. Keep in mind to also review your skincare routine: make sure you’re using non-comedogenic products and avoid over-washing, as that can strip the skin’s natural oils and potentially lead to more breakouts. One final tip—check your pillowcases and towels, they might be contributing to the issue if not changed frequently. A combination approach is usually best. If you address multiple factors simultaneously, you’ll likely have the best chance of seeing an improvement.
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