What Causes Acne?

Diet

A study(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4884775/) suggests that following a diet with a lot of processed foods and refined carbs can leave you with acne. Researchers believe foods, including cookies, cake, crackers, white pasta, and white bread, have a high glycemic index(GI) that triggers inflammation and overproduction of sebum, leading to acne.

Pore-Clogging Sunscreens

If you have acne-prone skin, forget sunscreens that are not oil-free, fragrance-free and non-comedogenic. Heavier sunscreens can lead to clogged pores, promoting acne.

Stress

According to one study (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4082169/), stress causes inflammation and hormonal changes. This can lead to severe breakouts.

What At-Home Acne Treatments Do You Approve of?

  • Tree tea oil
  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Green tea
  • Honey
  • Egg whites

Which Acne Treatments Do You Disapprove of?

  • Topical antibiotics
  • Topical retinoids
  • Benzoyl peroxide
  • Azelaic acid
  • Oral antibiotics
  • Hormonal therapies

Do You Have Any Additional Tips for Treating Acne at Home?

Steer clear of coconut oil, lemon juice and baking soda. Using coconut oil can lead to clogged pores, making your acne worse. On the other hand, lemon juice can cause dry, red and irritated skin. The same can happen if you use baking soda.

Anastasia Filipenko
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Anastasia Filipenko is a health and wellness psychologist, dermatolist and a freelance writer. She frequently covers beauty and skincare, food trends and nutrition, health and fitness and relationships. When she's not trying out new skincare products, you'll find her taking a cycling class, doing yoga, reading in the park, or trying a new recipe.

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MS, University of Latvia

I am deeply convinced that each patient needs a unique, individual approach. Therefore, I use different psychotherapy methods in my work. During my studies, I discovered an in-depth interest in people as a whole and the belief in the inseparability of mind and body, and the importance of emotional health in physical health. In my spare time, I enjoy reading (a big fan of thrillers) and going on hikes.

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Barbara is a freelance writer and a sex and relationships adviser at Dimepiece LA and Peaches and Screams. Barbara is involved in various educational initiatives aimed at making sex advice more accessible to everyone and breaking stigmas around sex across various cultural communities. In her spare time, Barbara enjoys trawling through vintage markets in Brick Lane, exploring new places, painting and reading.

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