Why Skin Can Look Rough Without Pimples

Your skin can look rough and bumpy without any pimples because of common conditions like keratosis pilaris, seborrheic dermatitis, or folliculitis that mimic acne but have different causes.[1][2][3] These issues often stem from built-up proteins, yeast overgrowth, or weakened skin barriers, leading to that sandpaper texture on your face, cheeks, or jawline.[1][2][3] Keratosis pilaris, sometimes […]

Why Closed Comedones Are Hard to Treat

Why Closed Comedones Are Hard to Treat Closed comedones, often called whiteheads, are small bumps under the skin caused by clogged pores. They form when oil, dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria fill hair follicles but stay sealed off from the air. Unlike blackheads, which are open and turn dark from oxidation, whiteheads remain hidden […]

Why Skin Can Be Dry Yet Break Out

Oral Retinoids for Acne

Why Skin Can Be Dry Yet Break Out You might think dry skin and breakouts do not go together. After all, pimples usually link to oily skin. But dry skin can still get acne. Here is why that happens. Your skin makes natural oils called sebum from glands under the surface. When the top layer […]

What Causes Oiliness Without Acne

Enzyme Powder

What Causes Oiliness Without Acne Your skin produces a natural oil called sebum from tiny glands under the surface. This oil keeps your skin soft and protected. Sometimes you get too much sebum, which makes your face look shiny, but without pimples or breakouts. This oily shine happens because your glands make extra oil for […]

What Causes Acne During High Cortisol Periods

What Causes Acne During High Cortisol Periods High cortisol levels from stress directly trigger acne by ramping up oil production in your skin and sparking inflammation. When life gets overwhelming, your body pumps out this hormone to help you cope, but it ends up messing with your skin in ways that lead to pimples and […]

Why Skin Reacts Strongly to Hormonal Changes

Spicules in Skincare

Why Skin Reacts Strongly to Hormonal Changes Your skin is like a mirror for what is happening inside your body. Hormones are chemical messengers that control many functions, and they have a direct line to your skin cells. When hormone levels shift quickly, your skin can break out, dry out, lose firmness, or become extra […]

What Causes Acne Around the Menstrual Cycle

Water and Acne

# What Causes Acne Around the Menstrual Cycle Many women experience breakouts that seem to follow a predictable pattern tied to their menstrual cycle. This type of acne, often called premenstrual acne flare-up, is driven by hormonal changes that happen naturally throughout the month. ## How Your Hormones Change During Your Cycle Your body goes […]

What Causes Acne After Stopping Actives

Exosomes In Skincare

What Causes Acne After Stopping Actives Many people notice pimples popping up right after they quit using strong skincare ingredients like retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or acids. These are called actives because they target acne by speeding up skin cell turnover, killing bacteria, or unclogging pores. When you stop them suddenly, your skin can rebel in […]

Why Over Exfoliating Triggers Inflammation

Subcision for Acne Scars

# Why Over Exfoliating Triggers Inflammation Your skin has a natural protective barrier that keeps it healthy and balanced. When you exfoliate, you’re removing dead skin cells that sit on the surface. This process, done correctly, can leave your skin looking smoother and brighter. However, when you exfoliate too often or too aggressively, you damage […]

Why Skin Reacts to Retinol Differently Over Time

Does Chocolate Really Cause Acne?

Why Skin Reacts to Retinol Differently Over Time When you first apply retinol to your skin, something interesting happens. Your skin doesn’t immediately transform into the glowing, wrinkle-free complexion you’re hoping for. Instead, it goes through a series of changes that can feel confusing and sometimes uncomfortable. Understanding why your skin reacts the way it […]