What causes acne breakouts?

Hormones and the skin’s oil glands are one part of the answer to what causes acne breakouts.

Where hormones and oil glands come in

The American Academy of Dermatology explains one piece of the picture: During puberty, hormones called androgens increase the size of the skin’s oil glands.

That sentence describes puberty, and it is a useful place to start.

Breakouts in adults

The American Academy of Dermatology has a page on adult acne for readers past their teen years whose skin is still breaking out. DermNet's page on acne is another plain reference you can read for free.

Treatments to learn about before you spend

Some people hear about chemical peels first. A PubMed Central article on chemical peels in the treatment of acne discusses patient selection, which is a good reminder that treatment should be chosen for the person, not for the trend.

Breakouts that keep coming back or hurt

Plan a visit with a dermatologist if breakouts keep returning, if they leave marks you dislike, or if they hurt. A dermatologist can look at your skin in person, which a web page cannot do. This site writes from Madera, and its answers cover Madera Acres, Fairmead and the rest of the county too.

What to try at home for little money

Most people ask next what they can do at home for little money. Start by writing down what you already use, so a clinician can see your whole routine at a glance.