From Poor Diet to Dirty Pillowcases: Five Everyday Habits That Continued to Cause Acne This Year—It’s Time to Change

Acne, pimples, and breakouts are no longer limited to teenage years. This year, just like many before it, skin issues such as boils and acne remained a major concern for both men and women. Even when everything else—from outfits to personality—seems perfect, a face full of breakouts can ruin confidence and appearance.

If you struggled with recurring acne this year, it may not be bad luck or genetics alone. According to dermatologist Dr. Aanchal Panth, several common lifestyle mistakes continue to trigger skin problems. Understanding and correcting these habits can significantly reduce breakouts, even if they cannot be eliminated entirely.

Why Do Acne Problems Refuse to Go Away?

The main reason acne keeps returning is that people often repeat the same mistakes year after year. While treatments are started with enthusiasm, lack of patience and poor daily habits undo the progress. Dr. Aanchal highlighted five major reasons behind persistent acne in a recent social media video.

1. Lack of Consistency in Treatment

In the age of short videos and instant results, patience has become rare. Many people expect acne treatments to work within one or two weeks. However, dermatologists explain that visible improvement usually begins after five to six weeks. Stopping treatment too early or frequently switching products prevents the skin from healing properly. Consistency and patience are key.

2. Neglecting Scalp Hygiene

Many people are surprised to learn that scalp health directly affects facial skin. When the scalp is not cleaned properly, excess oil can travel down to the forehead and cheeks, clogging pores and causing breakouts. This is why keeping the scalp clean is essential, especially for people with oily skin or dandruff issues.

3. Not Changing Pillowcases Regularly

Dirty pillowcases are one of the most overlooked causes of acne. Hair oils, sweat, dirt, and bacteria accumulate on pillow covers and transfer directly onto the face during sleep. Not changing pillowcases every two to three days can significantly increase the risk of pimples and boils.

4. Using the Wrong Cleanser

Choosing a cleanser without considering skin type can worsen acne. Harsh cleansers strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, redness, and inflammation. This can trigger the skin to produce more oil, resulting in more breakouts. Dermatologists recommend selecting a gentle cleanser suited to your specific skin type.

5. Poor Diet Choices

Diet plays a crucial role in skin health. Excessive intake of sugary foods and dairy products has been linked to acne flare-ups. A diet rich in green leafy vegetables, fruits, and essential nutrients helps improve skin clarity. Reducing sugar and processed foods can make a visible difference over time.

Time to Improve, Not Ignore

Acne is not just a cosmetic issue—it often reflects lifestyle habits and skin care mistakes. By making small but consistent changes, such as maintaining hygiene, following treatments patiently, and improving diet, breakouts can be controlled effectively.

If acne continues to persist despite corrective measures, consulting a qualified dermatologist is always the best course of action. Clear skin is achievable—but only if you stop repeating the same mistakes.