1. Hormonal problems

Hormonal problems such as sex hormones imbalances or PCOs are causal factors of cystic acne. This is because too much of androgens (male hormones) cause the overproduction of sebum in the oil glands. Sebum then gets trapped beneath the skin and clogs skin pores. Using any hormonal medication can return things to normal and calm the intense breakouts.

2. Chronic stress

Stress makes cortisol levels rise which in turn causes an imbalance in the hormones. If you have a hectic schedule with a lot of activities in between, it could cause hormonally induced cystic acne.

3. Inconsistent sleep cycles

Putting your body through constant physical stress that prevents you from sleeping well could affect your skin too. People who find themselves traveling through multiple time zones may get cystic sometime because they are regularly disrupting their body’s internal clock. Interrupting the body’s internal clock stimulates the adrenal gland to release more testosterone and cortisol than the body needs.

4. Poor diet

Diet has a profound impact on the skin. If your diet contains too much iodine, it could result in acne. Something in iodine leads to clogging of the skin pores. Also, regular consumption of spinach salad could do you in. Other foods that can cause acne include refined sugars and carbs which increases insulin and ultimately testosterone levels.