Why Your Skincare Isn’t Working: The 3 Hidden Causes of Acne

You’ve tried everything—high-end skincare, prescription creams, even those viral TikTok hacks. But no matter what you do, your skin still breaks out. Sound familiar? The truth is, most acne solutions focus only on the surface, completely ignoring the deeper reasons why your skin is struggling.

Acne isn’t just a skincare issue. It’s a reflection of what’s happening inside your body, your mind, and your lifestyle. If you’re stuck in the cycle of breakouts despite your best efforts, here are three hidden causes that could be standing between you and clear, healthy skin.

1. Your Gut Health Is Out of Balance

Your gut and skin are deeply connected through what’s called the gut-skin axis. When your digestive system is inflamed or imbalanced, it can trigger acne, redness, and sensitivity.

Signs Your Gut Is Affecting Your Skin:

• Bloating, constipation, or irregular digestion

• Food intolerances (but you’re not sure which ones)

• Breakouts that flare up after eating certain foods

How to Fix It:

• Support your gut with probiotics and fiber-rich foods.

• Identify and reduce trigger foods (dairy, gluten, processed sugars are common culprits).

• Prioritise hydration and whole foods to heal from the inside out.

2. Your Hormones Are Out of Sync

Hormonal acne isn’t just for teenagers. If your breakouts show up around your chin, jawline, or lower cheeks, or if they worsen around your cycle, hormones are likely at play.

Why This Happens:

• Elevated androgens (like testosterone) can overstimulate oil glands.

• Estrogen and progesterone imbalances can cause inflammation and excess sebum.

• Chronic stress spikes cortisol, which triggers more breakouts.

How to Fix It:

• Balance blood sugar with protein-rich meals and healthy fats.

• Support your cycle with seed cycling and adaptogenic herbs.

• Manage stress through nervous system regulation (meditation, breathwork, or nervous system-focused skincare practices).

3. Your Nervous System Is Stressed

We often separate our mind and body, but your skin responds to your emotions more than you realize. Chronic stress keeps your nervous system in fight-or-flight mode, which leads to increased oil production, inflammation, and breakouts that won’t heal.

Signs Your Stress Is Affecting Your Skin:

• Breakouts that flare up during stressful periods

• Increased redness, irritation, or sensitivity

• Poor sleep, anxiety, or feeling constantly on edge

How to Fix It:

• Prioritise deep relaxation techniques like yoga, journaling, or guided breathwork.

• Implement a calming skincare routine with gentle, barrier-supporting products.

• Heal from the inside by addressing subconscious stress patterns and emotional triggers.

Want Personalised Skin Coaching?

If you’re tired of chasing skincare solutions that don’t work, it’s time to take a holistic approach. In my 1:1 Skin Coaching Program, I help you heal acne at the root—through skincare, nutrition, and nervous system regulation—so you can achieve clear, glowing skin for life.

✨ Inside the program, you get: 

✔ A personalised skin-healing roadmap based on your unique needs

✔ Custom skincare and supplement recommendations

✔ Expert guidance on hormones, gut health, and stress regulation 

✔ Private coaching support so you’re never left guessing

💌 Spots are limited—DM me “COACHING” on Instagram (@skinhealthspecialist) or apply here https://www.tabithaisobel.com/skin-coaching to start your skin transformation today!