15 Reasons You're Breaking Out (and What To do About It)

#1 Your makeup brushes aren't clean.

If you want a clear complexion, you've got to do it. Otherwise, bacteria grows - and dirty brushes will transfer that to your face.

#2 It's in your genes.

Did your prints have acne? Luck you, it might just run in the family. A 2002 study suggests that 81 percent of acne can be attributed to genetic factors rather than environmental ones. File this one under "not your fault".

#3 You work out.

Sweat itself doesn't cause breakouts, but it can mix with oils in your pores - that can lead to acne. When showering after a workout, use a body wash with salicylic acid to keep pores clean.

#4 It's that time of the month.

Hormones can overstimulate the skins oil glands, which frequently lead to a break out around menstruation. (If you break out around your jawline this is likely the culprit. Some women use "the pill" - but you'll need to discuss this with your doctor.

#5 You're picking at your face.

You know that whitehead that's just begging to be popped? Leave it alone. Picking at your skin introduces more germs, increases the chance of scarring, and can increase inflammation.

#6 You're allergic to laundry detergent

Especially for people with sensitive skin, laundry detergent and dryer sheets and irritate the skin. Swap your usual soap for fragrance-free detergent, skip the dryer sheets and this could clear things up.

#7 It's the weather.

Changing climates might be the cause of your breakout. If you've recently moved or have taken a vacation, see an aesthetician or dermatologist. Usually they'll be able to help get your skin back to normal.

#8 You need more sleep.

Ever think your acne is getting worse over night? It could be. Not sleeping enough inflicts stress on the body. Aim for eight hours of sleep per night, even if you have to wear a sleep mask or earplugs to catch those z's.

#9 You're on drugs.

Ok, were talking prescriptions here, but it's worth looking at your Rx. Is acne listed as a side effect? Well, there you go.

#10 You're a bundle of nerves.

Simply put, stress is terrible for your body - and that includes your skin. While completely avoiding stress is impossible, you can improve your skin (and overall well-being) by meditating, relaxing, or doing anything else that calms you.

#11 Those sheets are dirty.

Not to sound like your mom, but... When was the last time you changed your sheets? Bed linens can harbour bacteria, which are more than happy to multiply on your face. Change your pillow cases at least twice a week. That goes for towels too.

#12 You're a Chatty Cathy.

Pressing a phone to your skin can lead to a breakout. Once a week, clean your phone with alcohol wipes - and if you've been on the phone for more than 15 minutes, it might not be a bad idea to clean your face too.

#13 Your diet.

Want to change your skin? Change your diet. Eliminating dairy, caffeine, peanuts, sugar, and soy can lead to clearer skin.

#14 You're washing too much or not enough.

Cleaning your face of sebum, makeup, and dirt is important. Cleaning in the morning and evening is all that's necessary. Any more than that, and you could irritate or dry out your skin.

#15 You go to bed with makeup on.

We know, we know - you're tired. But hitting the hay without washing your face is a sure way to trigger a breakout. If you're too exhausted to do a full skin care routine, get the worst of it off with a cleansing wipe.