*This* is why some women break out all the time and others don’t

Ever since I can remember, I’ve suffered from some sort of acne problem at every stage in my life. When I was 13, someone told me I had “enough zits on my forehead to play connect the dots,” and even now in my mid (okay, “late” #agedenial) twenties, I’m guaranteed some sort of breakout every few weeks. You guys can definitely relate, right?

Ever finished your class work and form 5 new zits from stress?

— Ali Collingwood (@alielizabethxo) September 6, 2016

Chin zits are the bane of my existence

— Bethany Cosentino (@BestCoast) September 1, 2016

can humans just evolve to a point to where we don't get zits/acne already? please and thank you.

— Zac Pullam (@zacpullam12) August 31, 2016

And trust me, I’ve tried it all — a diligent skin regimen, not wearing makeup unless I’m going out or to an event of some sort, drinking my weight in ounces of water, eating a balanced diet, etc; yet, I still can expect at least a few breakouts a month.

Turns out, for all of us trying our best to take care of our skin, it comes down to one thing: genes. 

According to Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, “Our genetics determine whether we break out or not.” Basically, no matter what you do, your genes call the shots on how your skin reacts to your diet, your environment, and your hormones.

So why do some people break out more often than others? Zeichner explains, “Some women are likely more sensitive to the effects of hormones than others,” which explains why some of us see zits spring up even when our hormone levels are normal.

Le sigh! But don’t go skipping your skincare routine just yet! It’s still important to keep up a healthy regimen!