What makes Acne Worse?

• FOOD does not affect ACNE

• Environmental irritants, such as pollution and high humidity

• puberty years - Changing hormone levels in adolescent girls and adult women 2 to 7 days before their menstrual period starts

• menstruation

• oral contraceptive pills (OCP) that contain androgenic-like progestins, such as norethindrone acetate, levo/norgestrel

• medications - androgens, bromides, certain cosmetics, lithium, phenytoin, steroids

• irritation and friction from constant washng, rubbing and touching

• Oil from skin products (moisturizers or cosmetics) or grease encountered in the work environment (for example, a kitchen with fry vats)

• Pressure from sports helmets or equipment, backpacks, tight collars, or tight sports uniforms

• Squeezing or picking at blemishes

• Hard scrubbing of the skin

• Stress - stress doesn't cause acne, but is know to make it worse, as stress and psychological factors are well-known to effect the immune system of people