Acne can range from a thinly scattered area of pimples and blackheads to an area covered with large cysts. Pimples begin in the skin's hair follicles which are connected to the oil-producing sebaceous glands. The sebaceous glands are pumping out too much. When dead cells stick to a hair follicle full of sebum, it provides a breeding ground for the growth of bacteria which can cause acne. Acne often appears during adolescence with the changing hormone levels.
Stress can also affect hormone levels and can explain why some adults develop acne.
Other causes of acne could be occupational exposures such as chemicals, toxins, and grease and oil. No matter what's causing your acne, there are lifestyle management steps that can help you in the preventative maintenance of your skin. Know what foods are the offenders. It's a good idea to avoid foods such as sugar, white flour products, soft drinks, refined foods, artificial sweeteners, chocolate, butter, meat, cheese, and iodized salt. Regular exercise is important for overall health as it boosts endorphin levels, which in turn can ease stress, anxiety, etc.