Besides a genetic predisposition (meaning you may have inherited this condition) to skin problems and hormonal fluctuations, stress plays a serious role. This modern malady has as much of an effect on your skin as it has on the rest of your body. Researchers have found a correlation between mental state and skin health. Under stressful conditions, the body releases hormones adrenalin, cortisol and DHEA to help us channel energy and oxygen to our muscles and brain in a 'fight or flight' reaction. These are good in times of genuine danger, but the body reacts the same way when you're stuck in traffic, or experiencing a deadline. When the body remains in continued stressed mode, energy is channelled away from repair and maintenance; the result is accelerated ageing and skin problems. It's commonly believed that the release of adrenalin during stress also stimulates the production of androgens - 'male' hormones that exist in both male and female bodies - which causes an increased production of sebum (oil) which, in turn, can cause skin problems.

Vitamin A products have been used for decades to treat problem skins. This super vitamin, along with ingredients like salicylic acid, helps unblock pores and makes the environment of the skin hostile for acne bacteria. Never use harsh products that strip your skin of oil as you will end up with dry, irritated skin with even more oil than before as the skin tries frantically to repair its protective outer barrier. Find products that respect the skin's barrier function and moisture, while working to control the causes of pimples.

A pimple is formed when oil is blocked inside a hair follicle by surface skin cells. Acne bacteria breed in this perfect climate and irritate the follicle, causing the redness and swelling we all know and hate. The best treatment is from within. You need to have an active product that will penetrate the sebaceous glands to normalise the over-production of sebum. Contact Absolute Bliss for more details on how to treat a problem skin.