Most people think breakouts are a result of not washing your face enough or eating too much chocolate—but acne is more complex than that. While clogged pores, hormones, and oil production play major roles, there are lesser-known breakout triggers that can sneak into your routine and sabotage your skin. As a dermatologist, I often see patients frustrated that their skincare “isn’t working,” when the real culprit is something totally unexpected.
Here are 5 surprising reasons your skin might be breaking out—and what you can do to fix them.
1. Your Skin Barrier Is Compromised
It may sound counterintuitive, but sometimes acne flares up because the skin is too dry, not too oily. When your skin barrier is damaged—often from over-cleansing, harsh exfoliants, or using too many active ingredients—your skin tries to compensate by producing more oil. That oil can get trapped in irritated pores, leading to breakouts.
Fix it:
Back off the aggressive treatments and focus on repairing the barrier. This means gentle cleansing, fragrance-free moisturizers, and hydrating serums. A streamlined routine with calming, replenishing ingredients can make a world of difference.
Try this:
ERLY’s Daily Soothe Serum contains 10% niacinamide—a multitasking ingredient that not only helps regulate oil production but also strengthens the skin barrier and reduces redness. It’s an ideal choice for skin that’s inflamed and breaking out at the same time.
2. You’re Using Hair Products That Transfer to Your Skin
What goes in your hair often ends up on your skin—especially if you have bangs, wear your hair down while you sleep, or use heavy styling products. Pomades, dry shampoos, and certain leave-ins can clog pores, especially around the forehead, hairline, and jaw.
Fix it:
Look for “non-comedogenic” or oil-free hair products, and keep your hair off your face as much as possible—especially at night. Be sure to cleanse thoroughly around the hairline, but gently. A harsh cleanser won’t help and may only add irritation.
Pro tip:
Use a pH-balanced, non-stripping cleanser like ERLY Face Foam Gentle Cleanser. It removes oil, sweat, and product residue without disrupting your skin’s natural balance—making it perfect for daily use around sensitive or breakout-prone areas.
3. You’re Touching Your Face More Than You Think
Between scrolling, typing, eating, and holding your phone, our hands are covered in bacteria and debris. And if you’re someone who rests your chin on your hand while thinking or picks at blemishes (we’ve all done it), those bacteria can end up deep in your pores.
Fix it:
It sounds simple, but “don’t touch your face” is advice worth repeating. Keep your phone clean with disinfecting wipes, and wash your hands frequently. Be aware of unconscious habits like leaning on your hand during Zoom calls or while studying.
Also, resist the urge to pick. Picking can drive bacteria deeper and cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or scarring—marks that can linger far longer than the breakout itself.
4. You’re Using Too Many Products at Once
Layering multiple products can seem like you're giving your skin “extra” attention—but more is not always better. Overloading the skin with actives like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, exfoliating acids, or retinoids can trigger irritation, which in turn worsens inflammation and acne.
Fix it:
Simplify. Stick to a few well-formulated, skin-friendly products and be consistent. Give each product at least 4–6 weeks to show results. Think of your skincare like a healthy diet: balance, patience, and quality ingredients matter more than constant change.
Try this:
ERLY Daily Dew Illuminating Serum offers antioxidant protection and brightening benefits with phloretin, a gentle plant-based compound ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin. It works well on its own or layered with Daily Soothe for a calming, glow-boosting combo—without overwhelming your skin.
5. Your Pillowcase (and Phone) Are Dirtier Than You Think
Fabrics and surfaces that touch your face for long periods—like pillowcases, towels, and your phone—can harbor oils, bacteria, and skincare residue. Over time, these can lead to clogged pores and repeated breakouts, especially on the cheeks and jawline.
Fix it:
Change your pillowcase at least twice a week, especially if you sleep with your hair down or wear face creams at night. Opt for fragrance-free, dye-free detergents to avoid additional irritation. And don’t forget your phone screen—it should be wiped down daily.
Breakout Triggers: Final Thoughts
The truth is, breakouts don’t always come from “bad skin” or poor hygiene. Often, they’re the result of habits, products, or environmental factors you wouldn’t immediately suspect. By paying attention to the details—like how often you wash your pillowcase or whether your products are truly non-irritating—you can uncover hidden triggers and start to heal your skin from the inside out.
A thoughtful routine with fewer, gentler products can be the best thing you do for your skin. At ERLY, we’ve designed every formula to support skin health at every age and stage—with zero fragrance, no harsh actives, and dermatologist-approved ingredients that soothe instead of stress.
