Acne Flare-Up Checklist
🌿 Acne Flare-Up Checklist
From The Skin Well™ | Drawn from the Happy Skin Leaflet Series
Acne can feel unpredictable and stubborn - but often, it’s a mix of small things building up. This checklist helps you explore possible flare-up triggers gently. It’s about spotting patterns, not being perfect.
🧴 SKIN PRODUCTS & HABITS
☐ Recently changed or added skincare, makeup, or hair products
☐ Using heavy or pore-clogging products (even natural ones)
☐ Over-exfoliating or using too many active ingredients
☐ Skipping moisturiser or using harsh spot treatments
☐ Touching, squeezing, or picking at blemishes
☐ Sleeping with makeup or not cleaning makeup tools
What might help:
→ Stick with a gentle, consistent skincare routine
→ Support your barrier and avoid harsh stripping
→ See: Happy Skincare, Happy Skin and Happy Sun, Happy Skin
🍽️ FOOD, DRINK & DIGESTION
☐ High intake of sugar, dairy, or ultra-processed foods
☐ Lots of fizzy drinks, coffee, or alcohol
☐ Gut issues like bloating, constipation, or food reactions
☐ Not drinking enough water or eating many wholefoods
What might help:
→ Focus on balance, hydration, and gut-friendly choices
→ See: Happy Gut, Happy Skin and Happy Hydration, Happy Skin
🛏️ SLEEP, STRESS & HORMONES
☐ Poor sleep, late nights, or lack of wind-down time
☐ Period-related breakouts or changes in hormones
☐ Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or under pressure
What might help:
→ Support your stress levels and sleep hygiene
→ Track patterns around your cycle or energy
→ See: Happy Mind, Happy Skin, Happy Sleep, Happy Skin, Happy Relationships, Happy Skin, and Happy Hormones, Happy Skin
🌦️ ENVIRONMENT & LIFESTYLE
☐ Wearing tight-fitting masks, helmets, or clothing
☐ Working out in heavy makeup or not cleansing after sweat
☐ Changes in weather, central heating, or air pollution
☐ Busy schedule with little time for skin rituals or downtime
What might help:
→ Cleanse after sweating, avoid friction, and create space for skin recovery
→ See: Happy Work, Happy Skin, Happy Home, Happy Skin, Happy Movement Happy Skin, Happy Air, Happy Skin, Happy Sun, Happy Skin
💡REMEMBER
Acne doesn’t define you - and it’s not always in your control. But knowing your skin’s patterns gives you power. Small changes often make a big impact.
If breakouts are painful, persistent, or affecting your wellbeing, speak to a skin therapist or GP.
Disclaimer
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the information in this leaflet is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional advice.
Version: [March / 2025]
© 2025 Jacqui de Jager | The Skin Well™ & The Happy Skin Clinic®
All rights reserved. This leaflet is for personal use and education only. It may not be reproduced, distributed, or adapted without written permission.
