1. Genetics

If your mum or dad had acne as a teenager, there’s a good chance you will too.

2. Hormones

During adolescence, hormones called androgens become active and stimulate oil glands in your skin, increasing oil production. This clogs pores causing pimples and blackheads. For women, hormonal changes that occur during a period, or when starting or stopping taking birth control pills, can also cause an acne break-out. (In some cases, however, certain birth control pills are prescribed as a treatment for acne.)

3. Stress

Although stress doesn’t actually cause acne, it will potentially aggravate this or any other skin condition you may have.

4. Diet

Dermatologists aren’t sure whether or not what we eat plays a critical role in acne. Some experts do believe, however, that food allergies can trigger acne outbreaks.

5. Washing your face too often.

This can aggravate the skin, causing acne to occur.

6. Skincare products

Greasy skin care products and oily cosmetics clog oil ducts and may cause acne.

7. Medications

Acne can be a side effect of some drugs, including barbiturates, seizure medication and steroids.

Skincare solution: try Ketsugo

This article has been adapted from iVillage.