4 Dermatologist-Approved Tips For Dealing With Dry & Acne-Prone Skin

According to board-certified dermatologist Ava Shamban, M.D., founder of Ava MD Dermatology, the SkinFive and The Box by Dr. Ava, increased oil production often leads to clogged pores and breakouts, but it’s not the only issue: Sometimes, having acne-prone skin is due to factors like genetics or hormone fluctuations, and it’s simply out of your control.

And sometimes? Sebum has nothing to do with it: “Bacteria and hormones, especially as we age, come back into play for acne that is not necessarily an overproduction of sebum,” Shamban says. “In fact, it occurs when our sebum levels are dropping.” Meaning, as you age (and your skin becomes drier), the pH of your skin also starts to rise, which can create an environment where pro-inflammatory bacteria thrive.

And since dry skin is also associated with a weakened skin barrier, environmental aggressors and irritants can easily make their way inside and kick-start inflammation—which can then lead to breakouts, all without any sort of slick skin.