Why Acne Can Persist Despite Treatment
You start using acne creams or pills, and at first, things look better. But then the breakouts come back. Why does this happen? Acne is tricky because it has many hidden causes that treatments might miss.[1][2][3]
One big reason is hormones. In adults, especially women over 30, hormones like androgens can stay high and keep pumping out extra oil. This clogs pores even if you are using cleansers or antibiotics. Jawline pimples often point to this, and it can link to conditions like PCOS or changes from birth control, pregnancy, or menopause.[1]
Your gut might be involved too. An imbalance in gut bacteria, called dysbiosis, can fuel inflammation that shows up as acne. Standard skin treatments do not fix this inside problem.[2]
Stress plays a part. It raises hormones that boost oil and worsens breakouts. Lack of sleep does the same. You might treat the skin, but if stress stays high, acne returns.[1][2]
Diet matters more than people think. Foods high in sugar, like sodas and sweets, or dairy like whey protein spike insulin and oil production. Even if your routine is perfect, these can undo progress.[1][2]
Wrong products or habits keep pores clogged. Oil-based creams, heavy makeup, or ingredients that block pores sneak in and cause trouble. Overwashing strips the skin barrier, making it produce more oil and letting bacteria thrive.[1][3][4]
Bacteria like C. acnes grow in clogged pores and cause red, painful spots. But not all acne is just bacterial. Fungal or hormonal types need different fixes, so the usual antibacterial gels fail.[3]
Some medicines or health issues trigger flares too. Certain drugs or underlying conditions keep acne going no matter what you apply.[2]
Everyday choices add up. Washing too much, skipping oil-free products, or ignoring flare-up logs means treatments cannot win.[1][3]
Sources
https://www.tuftsmedicine.org/about-us/news/acne-over-30
https://artofskincare.com/blogs/learn/acne-lesson-1-what-is-acne-and-why-do-i-have-it
https://naturalimageskincenter.com/common-misconceptions-about-bacterial-acne-how-to-identify-it-correctly/
https://fashionmagazine.com/beauty-grooming/adult-acne-causes-treatments/
https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/the-educated-patient-clearing-up-acne
