Once we reach puberty we produce a hormone called ‘testosterone’ which is produced by both men and women. Those who suffer from acne or problem prone skin tend to have a sensitivity to this hormone. Testosterone tells our sebaceous glands to produce sebum, an oily substance which forms part of our skin’s protective barrier. Acne is generally caused by a build up of dead skin cells, oil, bacteria and an excess of sebum.

These changes in hormonal activity and genetics do play a main role, however, such factors as stress, hormonal fluctuations, hot and humid climates and certain cosmetic ingredients can also irritate the skin, which can aggravate acne and blemishes. Due to these factors, acne can develop in adult skin as well as teenage.