From The Skin Well® | Drawn from the Happy Skin Leaflet Series
Acne can feel unpredictable and stubborn — but often, it’s a mix of small things building up. This checklist helps you explore possible flare-up triggers gently. It’s about spotting patterns, not being perfect.
🧴 SKIN PRODUCTS & HABITS
☐ Recently changed or added skincare, makeup, or hair products
☐ Using heavy, oily, or pore-clogging products
☐ Over-exfoliating or using too many active ingredients
☐ Skipping moisturiser or using harsh spot treatments
☐ Touching, squeezing, or picking at blemishes
☐ Sleeping with makeup or not cleaning makeup tools
What might help:
→ Stick with a gentle, consistent skincare routine
→ Use non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, oil-free products (NHS, BAD)
→ Support your skin barrier and avoid harsh stripping
🍽️ FOOD, DRINK & DIGESTION
☐ High intake of sugar, dairy, or ultra-processed foods
☐ Lots of fizzy drinks, coffee, or alcohol
☐ Digestive issues like bloating, constipation, or food reactions
☐ Not drinking enough water or eating many wholefoods
What might help:
→ Some people notice links between acne and diet (especially high-glycaemic foods and dairy), but evidence is limited — track patterns carefully (NHS)
→ Focus on overall balance and hydration
🛏️ SLEEP, STRESS & HORMONES
☐ Poor sleep, late nights, or lack of wind-down time
☐ Period-related breakouts or hormonal changes
☐ Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or under pressure
What might help:
→ Support your stress levels and sleep hygiene
→ Track patterns around your cycle or hormones — hormonal shifts are a recognised acne trigger (NHS)
🌦️ ENVIRONMENT & LIFESTYLE
☐ Wearing tight-fitting masks, helmets, or clothing (“acne mechanica”)
☐ Working out in heavy makeup or not cleansing after sweat
☐ Changes in weather, central heating, or air pollution
☐ Busy schedule with little time for skin rituals or downtime
What might help:
→ Cleanse after sweating
→ Avoid friction and occlusion where possible
→ Create space for skin recovery
💡 REMEMBER
Acne doesn’t define you — and it’s not always in your control. But knowing your skin’s patterns gives you power. Small changes often make a big impact.
If breakouts are painful, persistent, or affecting your wellbeing, speak to a medical practitioner or pharmacist
The Skin Well®
A grassroots, evidence-aware initiative supporting public skin education.
👉 @theskinwell_
Disclaimer
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the information in this leaflet is for educational purposes only. It should not replace professional advice from a qualified healthcare practitioner. If you have concerns about your skin or treatment, please consult your GP, pharmacist, or another healthcare professional.
Version: [Sept / 2025]
© 2025 Jacqui de Jager | The Skin Well® & The Happy Skin Clinic®
All rights reserved. This leaflet is for personal use and education only. It may not be reproduced, distributed, or adapted without written permission.