When it comes to acne, our first focus is always on skincare routines , or, from a more holistic perspective, on our diet and hormonal health. However, some of the basic factors that cause acne are much simpler and more obvious. Bacteria accumulating in unexpected places, our cleaning habits, and even our beds can directly affect our skin health. If you continue to experience acne problems despite a complete skincare routine and a balanced and healthy diet, it may actually be due to potential acne triggers lurking in your living spaces. For those times when you feel that even the best skincare routines and healthy eating plans aren't enough to solve your acne problem, we've listed 5 acne triggers you should pay attention to.
What are 5 potential acne triggers found at home?
Acne is a complex skin problem that cannot be attributed to a single cause. Indeed, research shows that the following lifestyle choices contribute to the development of acne. This indicates that with proper attention and precautions, the causes of acne can be reduced, meaning that the problem can be prevented before it even occurs.
1. Scented laundry detergents
Many of us prefer scented laundry detergents and fabric softeners because they enhance the feeling of cleanliness, but these products actually contain harsh chemicals, synthetic perfumes, and even dyes. Using these cleaning products on bed sheets, which are in direct contact with our skin for an average of 8 hours, means all these chemicals are penetrating our skin. Scented cleaning products, which can particularly irritate sensitive skin and trigger skin allergies, can also clog pores, inviting acne. Acne, which appears on various parts of the body besides the face, such as the back, shoulders, chest, and arms, is often triggered by these artificially scented chemical cleaning products.
As research supports, it is recommended that people with acne-prone and sensitive skin avoid all cleaning and skincare products containing synthetic dyes and perfumes. Instead, they should opt for hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and preferably natural-based cleaning products, or use the double rinse cycle in their washing machine to minimize product residue .
2. Bacteria accumulating on your phone.
Our phones, which we use every day, every hour, in every environment, and expose to many different surfaces, naturally harbor various bacteria, dirt, and oil. This means that every contact between our phone and our skin, especially long phone calls, becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. According to research, our phone screens can carry a bacterium called Staphylococcus aureus , known to cause acne and skin infections . Phones, which gradually heat up and are exposed to humidity with prolonged use, create the ideal environment for bacteria to grow and multiply. All these situations lead to phones transferring all the bacteria and oil they have accumulated to the skin with a simple touch, clogging pores and triggering acne. In fact, dermatologists classify this type of acne caused by phone friction and bacterial transfer to the skin as "mechanical acne."
One way to prevent mechanical acne is to wipe your phone screen daily with an alcohol-based disinfectant . Using headphones for phone calls also significantly reduces contact between the phone and your skin.
3. Dead skin cells on the sheets
Like phones, bed sheets can accumulate dead skin, oil, sweat, and dirt over time, creating an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Exposure to this buildup during sleep can clog pores and trigger acne breakouts. Similarly, the movements we make throughout the night, such as with phones, create friction and heat, allowing bacteria to penetrate the skin more deeply and damaging the skin barrier.
One way to prevent acne triggered by bed linens is to wash them more frequently with hypoallergenic cleansers. Additionally, using silk and satin sheets helps protect the skin barrier because they create less friction than cotton . Experts recommend that people prone to acne change their pillowcases at least twice a week .
4. Unwashed makeup
Makeup brushes and sponges, especially if left damp or kept in humid environments like bathrooms, create ideal breeding grounds for bacteria. In fact, research shows that makeup sponges can even harbor the highly harmful bacterium Escherichia coli , commonly known as E. coli . Makeup brushes, which are frequently used, can also accumulate makeup residue, skin oils, and dead skin cells. Makeup brushes and sponges, which form a perfect recipe for acne breakouts, need to be cleaned much more frequently and carefully than we might think. Dermatologists recommend cleaning our brushes and sponges with a gentle moisturizer and lukewarm water at least once a week . They also add that we should ensure the brushes are thoroughly dried and not left damp.
5. Dust and pet hair that accumulate in the house
Household dust and pet dander can increase skin inflammation, particularly exacerbating sensitive and acne-prone skin. Dust consists of small polluting particles, similar to allergens, that settle on living spaces and skin, clogging pores. Pet dander, dead skin cells, and saliva can also spread throughout living spaces, causing sensitivity upon contact with the skin. Therefore, a clean living space, free from dust and dander , plays a significant role in alleviating skin problems. The best way to reduce dust and dander is to frequently vacuum living spaces, use air fresheners, and ensure proper care of pets