And just as I begin to write this, I feel another breakout coming on. This time right in the middle of my chin - lucky me. I’m thinking that it’s likely because it’s that time of the month, but then I remember that slice of cake I had over the weekend which usually does it (sigh) - I should have known.

Pesky breakouts and acne are never fun. Especially when you have countless meetings, drinks with girlfriends or a special date night planned that week. When we said goodbye to puberty, we also thought we were saying goodbye to those frequent, and unexpected appearance of pimples. Yet, here we are, well past our teen years and still breaking out. Being in the beauty business for so long, and relentlessly trying different products to treat my various skin concerns, I wanted to share with you what I’ve learned over the years to conquer breakouts.

1. Dirt & Germs

Ready for this one? Scientists believe that cell phones carry 10 times more bacteria than most toilet seats (ugh). Now think about how often you hold your phone up to your face every day. It’s no wonder that the most common causes of breakouts are the things that come into contact with your face every day, such as your cell phone, pillowcase and more. Dirt and germs hide out on these commonly used areas causing breakouts and clogging pores. So, make sure you’re taking extra care to sanitize and clean these items often. Wash your pillowcases and sheets regularly and use a disinfectant wipe to clean your phone at least once a week.

2. Diet

What you put INTO your body is just as important as what you’re putting ON your body. I’ve learned the hard way that poor nutrition will make me more susceptible to breakouts. Like I mentioned earlier, I feel a breakout coming on, and then I remember eating that slice of cake over the weekend. Bottom line - a poor diet, and breakouts go hand in hand.

Believe me, I know that if you’re working late, or eating on-the-go, it can be difficult to make healthy choices. But, I’ve learned that dairy, simple carbs, and sugar can be the biggest acne culprits. People always tried to tell me to cut them out, but I just couldn’t give up my pizza, pasta, and ice cream. But, when my wedding came around I knew I wanted to give it a try, and I completely cut out dairy and sugar before the big day. Let me tell you – my skin has NEVER looked so good. I’m not saying that I’ve completely cut it out after that, but I definitely try to limit my intake or look for healthier alternatives - little steps are key to getting started. Try swapping white bread and rice for brown and choose fresh fruit over processed treats. I can promise you’ll start seeing a change in your skin for the better.

3. Hormones

Sorry ladies, breakouts occur more in women than in men. Our hormones are particularly in flux during different parts of our period cycle or menopause – showing up as breakouts a week before Aunt Flow visits. According to health.com, “these hormones can over-stimulate the oil glands and clog pores where the acne bacteria grow.” I can always tell I’m getting my period when blemishes start to pop up on my face! After speaking to a number of women, I found that they all had a similar issue. Certain areas of their face would become extra oily around seven to ten days before their period. Amos and I wanted to address this concern head on and out of this frustration Pore Revolution & T-Zone Mattifier was created.

This treatment works to instantly control shine, masque breakouts, and reduce large, clogged pores. It’s perfectly formulated with Salicylic Acid which helps increase cellular turnover and goes deep into the pores to sweep away blockage. Watercress Extract helps to clarify the skin, and natural soothers such as Willow Leaf Extract helps calm irritated skin. With sebum control technology, your pores are tightened and refined, while the T-Zone area becomes matted. I like to use this product after I’ve cleansed my face to curb surface oils of the nose, chin, and forehead, or after a workout. I even leave it in my purse to take care of any shine I have while I’m on-the-go. Forget blotting sheets - this stuff works wonders and is excellent for all skin types.

5. Stress

Working full-time, taking care of four kids, and finding time for my husband can take a toll (I’m sure many of you can relate). Although I wouldn’t change it for the world, there are times where I can’t help but feel overwhelmed and stressed. When we are stressed, we release hormones, and as discussed earlier, hormone fluctuations are a main culprit leading to breakouts. So, stress = breakouts and more stress leads to more breakouts. While this seems to be a never-ending cycle, I’ve found ways to keep my stress levels in check.

Exercise, meditation, yoga, and breathing awareness are all great tools to reduce stress. One of my favorite finds is the Breathe app, which reminds you to take time to breathe deeply every day. It guides you through a series of deep breaths which assists with mindfulness, and stress reduction. It sounds so obviously simple, but you’d be shocked by how easy it is to forget to breathe.

Not into tech? There are lots of alternate ways to de-stress: take baths, get massages, or just listen to calming music – whatever works best for you. With time, you’ll be able to get control of stress triggers helping to avoid moments of an emotional overload.

While dirt and germs, diet, hormones, and stress are major causes of breaking out, there are still many other habits you may not have known to cause breakouts.

1. Skipping your moisturizer: To make up for a dehydrated state, your skin may actually produce more oil.
2. Not showering after a workout: When you work out you perspire, which increases oil production, which can lead to an acne breakout.
3. Not washing your beauty tools: most people don’t wash their beauty tools enough. It’s recommended to wash them on a weekly basis in order to prevent bacteria buildup, which can lead to unwanted breakouts.
4. Applying too much powder: Layers of powder will eventually cake up and irritate the skin which can lead to pimples.
5. Spending too much time in front of a magnifying mirror: It’s nearly impossible to not pick at your skin if you’re looking at yourself in a magnifying mirror – so just don’t do it! Bacteria from your hands and nails will end up on your face, and you’ll be creating more marks and scarring from interfering with your skin.

Finally, if you’re really struggling with adult acne or breakouts, it can’t hurt to consult with your dermatologist to find out what treatments will be most effective for you. There’s no one size fits all solution to treat breakouts – everyone is different. Experiment, see what works best for you and go with it!