Persistent acne is a inconvenience not only in adolescence but also in adults. Even if you have used many skin care products, kept hygienic carefully and consulted a dermatologist, acne can still recur.
According to Dr. Kriti Lohia, Executive Director & Consulting Dermatologist at Aesthetics redefined by Cocoona Clinic, Gurgaon (India), chronic acne is often a sign of deep imbalance within the body or omitted trigger agents, which need to be treated locally and properly.
Hormonal imbalance
Hormones play an important role in controlling sebum. Changes in androgen during puberty, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause oil glands to become overactive. Excess oil combined with dead skin and bacteria clog pores, leading to acne. In these cases, using only over-the-counter creams or cleansers is not enough; endocrine treatment combined with lifestyle changes is needed.
Using or abusing skin care products
Changing the product too often or washing your face too many times is a common mistake. Combining many active ingredients such as salicylic acid, Benzoyl peroxide and retinoids can damage the skin's barrier, cause inflammation, dry skin and worsen acne. The solution is to build a balanced skin care routine, according to the doctor's instructions, including gentle cleanser, moisturizer that does not cause acne and specialized active ingredients that are used properly.
Diet and potential factors
Diet directly affects skin health. Dairy products, foods with a high glycemic index or too much sugar can increase insulin levels, indirectly stimulating sebum. People with acne may notice acne flare-ups after eating milk, cheese, chocolate or fried foods. Instead, a diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3, fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains will help improve the skin, combined with adequate moisturizing to balance the skin.
Stress and lack of sleep
Stress causes the body to produce cortisol, a hormone that stimulates the sebum gland and causes inflammation. Lack of sleep affects the skin's natural recovery process, prolonging acne healing time. Applying relaxation exercises such as yoga, meditation or maintaining a regular sleep schedule helps reduce acne and improve skin health in the long term.
touching and molds acne too much
Improper hand touching or molds of acne on the face can spread bacteria, cause inflammation and leave scars and dark spots. On-site treatment or as prescribed by a doctor should be prioritized, avoiding arbitrary intervention that will make acne worse.
Potential diseases
Persistent acne is sometimes a sign of internal health problems such as thyroid disorders, insulin resistance or digestive imbalance. If acne does not respond to normal treatment, taking a blood test and determining the cause of hormones or metabolism will help improve acne in the long term.
