4 Main Internal Causes of Acne and How to Effectively Treat Breakouts

Acne is one of the most common skin concerns in the world, affecting people of all ages and skin types. While many treatments focus on surface-level solutions like cleansers and creams, the truth is that acne often begins beneath the skin. Internal factors such as hormones, diet, and stress can play a major role in triggering breakouts, which is why addressing these root causes is key to achieving lasting results.

In this guide, we will break down the main internal causes of acne and show you how to treat breakouts effectively from the inside out. You will also learn how to choose the right products, including dermatologist-recommended options from MyRemih.com, that target both symptoms and sources. By the end, you will have a clearer understanding of what really causes acne and a practical action plan to help you move toward healthy, balanced, and blemish-free skin.

Understanding Acne: What It Is and How It Develops

To understand how to fight acne effectively, you first need to know what causes acne in the first place. Acne develops when pores become clogged with excess oil, dead skin cells, and other debris. This blockage creates the perfect environment for acne-causing bacteria to multiply, leading to inflammation and visible breakouts.

Acne formation usually follows a predictable pattern. It starts with a clogged pore (also called a comedone). If the pore stays closed, you get a whitehead. If it opens and the trapped debris oxidizes, you get a blackhead. When bacteria trigger inflammation, those clogged pores can turn into red bumps (papules), pus-filled spots (pustules), or in more severe cases, deep and painful cystic acne.

It’s a common misconception that acne is just a teenage problem. In reality, acne breakouts can occur at any age, from hormonal fluctuations in your 20s to stress-related flare-ups in your 30s and beyond. Understanding the process of acne formation is the first step toward finding the right treatment plan that works for your skin.

 

 

What Are the Main Internal Causes of Acne?

While skincare products can help manage breakouts, the main internal causes of acne often come from factors inside the body that trigger excess oil production, inflammation, and clogged pores. Identifying these root causes can help you create a more targeted acne treatment plan.

1. Hormonal fluctuations

Hormonal acne is one of the most common types, especially during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause. Changes in androgen levels can increase sebum production, making skin more prone to clogged pores and inflammation.

2. Dietary factors

Diet and acne are more connected than many people realize. High glycemic foods like white bread, sugary snacks, and sodas can spike blood sugar and insulin levels, which may lead to increased oil production. Dairy products and heavily processed foods have also been linked to more frequent breakouts in certain individuals.

3. Genetics

Genetics acne refers to breakouts that are influenced by your family history. If your parents struggled with acne, you may have inherited a skin type that is naturally more oil-prone or reactive.

4. Stress

Stress triggers cortisol spikes, which can worsen inflammation and oil production. Even if you are diligent with your skincare routine, stress-related flare-ups can still occur.

💡 For more insights on the diet-acne connection, check out our guide to the Best Diets for Healthy Skin.

What Causes Acne Breakouts and How to Treat Them

Acne breakouts are usually the result of multiple factors working together. Beyond the main internal causes, external triggers can also play a big role. Common culprits include excess oil, clogged pores, bacterial overgrowth, and skin inflammation.

Daily habits that worsen breakouts

• Touching your face frequently, which transfers dirt and bacteria
• Skipping your evening cleanse or sleeping with makeup on
• Using harsh scrubs or drying cleansers that strip your skin barrier
• Not washing pillowcases or phone screens often enough

How to treat acne effectively

Start with gentle cleansing

Use a mild but effective cleanser to remove oil, sweat, and dirt without over-drying the skin. The Remih Acne Cleansing Bar contains activated charcoal, salicylic acid, and sulfur to deeply purify pores while calming irritation.

Incorporate exfoliants and topical actives

Look for salicylic acid to clear pores, benzoyl peroxide to fight bacteria, or retinoids to speed up skin turnover. Avoid using too many actives at once to prevent irritation.

Consider internal treatments when needed

For persistent acne, hormonal therapy, prescription medications, or targeted supplements (like zinc) may be recommended by a dermatologist.

Adopt a full acne-fighting routine

The Remih Acne Kit is designed for oily and acne-prone skin, helping combat breakouts, regulate oil production, and fade scars with a complete, dermatologist-approved system.

 

 

When you understand the causes of acne breakouts and choose the right treatment plan, you can reduce flare-ups and improve your skin’s clarity over time.

Does Lotion Cause Acne? Separating Fact from Fiction

One of the most common myths in skincare is that using lotion will automatically cause acne. The truth is, moisturizers themselves are not the enemy. In fact, using the right type of lotion can help calm and protect acne-prone skin.

Comedogenic vs. non-comedogenic products

The difference comes down to pore-clogging potential. Comedogenic lotions contain ingredients that can block pores, leading to breakouts. Non-comedogenic lotions, on the other hand, are formulated to hydrate without causing congestion.

Why skipping moisturizer can backfire

When you skip moisturizer, your skin may overcompensate by producing more oil, which can worsen acne. Well-hydrated skin maintains a healthier barrier, making it more resilient to irritation and inflammation.

Best practice for acne-prone skin

Choose a non-comedogenic, lightweight lotion that provides hydration without heaviness. Gel-cream textures or oil-free formulas work especially well for those with oily or breakout-prone skin.

🔗 Recommended: Remih Multi-Vitamin Face Moisturizer – A vitamin-rich, lightweight, non-comedogenic formula that nourishes and hydrates without clogging pores, making it ideal for acne-prone skin.

 

 

Understanding Acne Medications, Including the Black One

When people refer to “black acne medication,” they are often talking about sulfur-based ointments or Ichthammol. These treatments have a dark color due to their active compounds and are used to draw out impurities, reduce swelling, and calm inflammation in stubborn acne spots.

Popular acne-fighting actives and how they work:

Benzoyl Peroxide –

A well-known ingredient that kills acne-causing bacteria, reduces redness, and prevents new breakouts from forming. Often used in gels, creams, and cleansers for moderate to severe acne. Use for inflamed pimples and active breakouts.

Sulfur –

Naturally reduces excess oil and has antimicrobial properties. Its ability to dry out blemishes while reducing inflammation makes it ideal for spot treatment and oily skin. Use for oily, sensitive, or combination skin that reacts to harsher treatments.

Retinoids –

Vitamin A derivatives that speed up cell turnover, unclog pores, and fade post-acne marks. Prescription versions tend to be stronger, while over-the-counter forms are gentler but still effective. Use for long-term acne management and prevention of clogged pores.

Possible side effects:

Dryness, peeling, redness, and temporary irritation are common, especially when starting treatment. Always introduce these ingredients gradually and pair them with a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer.

How to Have Acne-Free Skin in the Long Term

Achieving clear skin is one thing, but keeping it that way requires consistency and healthy habits. The most effective approach is to follow a simple, sustainable skincare routine you can commit to every day:

Your daily clear skin routine:

1.    Cleanse –

Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser twice daily to remove oil, dirt, and makeup.

2.    Cleanse –

Apply targeted treatments like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids based on your skin’s needs.

3.    Cleanse –

Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to maintain skin balance.

4.    Cleanse –

Apply sunscreen daily to prevent post-acne dark spots from worsening.

Lifestyle habits that help prevent breakouts:

• Balanced Diet –

  Focus on whole foods and reduce high-glycemic and overly processed meals.

• Stress Management –

  Chronic stress can trigger hormonal imbalances that lead to breakouts. (See our post on stress management for better skin for tips.)

 

 

• Consistent Sleep Schedule –

  Quality rest allows your skin to repair and regenerate.

The key to lasting results is patience. Acne often takes weeks or even months to improve, so stick to your routine and avoid switching products too frequently. Over time, your skin will become clearer, more resilient, and less prone to flare-ups.

What causes acne breakouts and how can they be effectively treated?

Acne is a complex condition influenced by both internal and external factors. While you cannot control every trigger, you can take meaningful steps toward clearer skin by combining targeted treatments with healthy lifestyle choices.

A gentle, consistent skincare routine paired with balanced eating, stress management, and proper hydration can make a significant difference over time. For stubborn or severe breakouts, consulting a dermatologist ensures you get personalized, effective solutions.

If you are ready to begin your journey to healthy, acne-free skin, start with products that work.