Board-certified dermatologists answer: What causes acne?

Breakouts can feel embarrassing, but acne is extremely common—and not always in your control. Board-certified dermatologists Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger are here to break down why a skin care regimen isn’t the only solution.

What causes acne, and are there different types?

Breakouts come in many forms, from comedonal acne to acne pustules. You can even get breakouts from an overgrowth of natural yeast on the skin! When it comes to what causes it, there’s no single answer. You may not be cleansing your skin effectively, or it could be an overgrowth of bacteria. Sometimes, it can be cleared up with a good at-home acne treatment, but other times, you may need to take antibiotics to clear up an infection. If you’re not seeing success with a good skin care routine, it may be time to visit a board-certified dermatologist.

Learn more:

• The best untinted physical sunscreens for acne-prone skin
• Addressing breakouts at home with La Roche-Posay
• The best acne routine for hormonal acne