why acne occurs on face - #21948
I am really struggling with this acne situation. Like, I've tried everything, but acne just keeps showing up all over my face, and I can’t figure out why! It started a few months ago when my stress level skyrocketed due to work, and suddenly, boom, my face was like a pizza! I’ve been using all these over-the-counter creams and cleansers, but nothing seems to work. I even went to a dermatologist who said it might be hormonal, but then I’m like, why does it still get worse? Every time I think it’s clearing up, another pimple pops up! I am wondering if it’s truly hormonal, or maybe diet-related? I heard dairy can cause acne, and I do drink milk, but why is it only just on my face? Friends keep telling me it’s because of my skin type or my makeup, but why would that suddenly change? I just wanna know, why acne occurs on face specifically! Like, why not other places too? Does it have to do with how we clean our skin or something? Anyone else have these problems and figure it out? How do I actually get rid of this stuff?
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Acne often occurs on the face due to the high concentration of sebaceous (oil-producing) glands there. These glands can become overactive due to factors like hormone changes, particularly during stress, which you’ve already experienced. When your body produces excess oil, it can mix with dead skin cells or bacteria, clogging the pores and leading to acne outbreaks. Hormonal fluctuations can indeed trigger these gland activities, and while your dermatologist mentioned hormonal causes, it’s quite common for people to experience this kind of breakout even if they hadn’t before. Stress can exacerbate acne because it triggers the body to produce more androgens, which increases oil production. Also, the face is more frequently touched and exposed to external factors like pollution, which can aggravate acne formation. Diet can sometimes play a role too; for some, dairy products or high-glycemic foods may worsen acne, though this varies between individuals. The reason acne seems to predominantly appear on the face, rather than other body parts, is also about the density of sebaceous glands in that area—essentially, some areas are just more prone than others based on their oil production. To manage acne, consider continuing treatment with dermatological advice, especially if over-the-counter options aren’t effective. Use gentle, non-comedogenic skincare products, and maintain a consistent routine. Avoid excessive scrubbing, which can irritate the skin. If you suspect a dietary link, experimenting with cutting down on specific foods like dairy could be worth trying. Also, ensure your stress management techniques are healthy—mindfulness, exercise, or therapy can be helpful. If acne persists despite these measures, it might require targeted treatments like topical or oral medications.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.