However, acne does not only occur during adolescence. Children as young as five years old and adults can develop acne as well. Many young women with acne find that it worsens and improves with the rise and fall of hormone levels during their menstrual cycle. Stress may also significantly affect acne. Patients report that their conditions worsen during stressful times in their lives and improve during more stable periods.
Many people believe that poor dietary habits can cause acne.
The sugar and fat content of junk food, like chocolate, is thought to affect the follicles of the skin. However, there is no clinical evidence to support this. Studies show no connection between junk food and acne. Nevertheless, some individuals find that certain foods, such as dairy products, may worsen their acne. Propionibacteria acnes is the common bacterial cause of skin infection that accompanies acne.