Pimples appear when pores get clogged with oil and dead skin cells, which can cause bacteria to grow. But what exactly makes oil go into overdrive?

Hormones

Androgens are hormones that make the skin produce more oil. Bodies usually produce more of these hormones during – you guessed it – the teenage years, and a few days before a menstrual period.

Certain food

If you already have acne, laying off dairy and refined carbs might be a good idea. Milk contains hormones that trigger oil production while refined carbs like white bread, pasta and chips promote inflammation – which can make your spots worse.

Your beauty routine

Have you washed your make-up brushes? Checked if your cosmetics are oil-based? To keep your skin clear, make sure you wash your brushes once a week and only use make-up that is oil-free and non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores. And don’t even think of going to bed with make-up on!