The causes of acne are not always clear-cut. From lifestyle and environmental stresses to hormonal abnormalities and genetics, one (or more!) factors may be triggering breakouts, says New York City dermatologist Joshua Zyckner, M.D.

Your acne pattern, or the type of acne you have, may be a result of a combination of factors.

Apply your acne pattern, blemish type, and number of pimples to one of the options below to see what may be causing your problem, whether you need to see a doctor or not, and what prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) products can help control breakouts .

If the breakouts are near the scalp, they may be caused by pore-clogging ingredients in hair care products, such as isopropyl palmitate and certain mineral oils and waxes. Try switching your regular hair care products to Seen products, a dermatologist-developed non-comedogenic line (opens in new tab). It contains no irritants or pore-clogging ingredients and contains chamomile derivatives known to soothe the skin.

According to Dr. Zyckner, acne along the chin and jawline indicates that there may be a hormonal component. Therefore, it is best to see a dermatologist. He or she may recommend antibiotics, spironolactone, which blocks receptors for hormones that trigger sebum production, birth control pills, which balance hormone levels, and topical antibacterial and oral medications such as isotretinoin, a drug that acts on multiple acne causes simultaneously.

Light spots all over the body may be caused by dirt, sebum, and dead skin cells that clog pores causing comedones (white pimples) rather than hormonal effects. Try replacing your regular cleanser with one with micronized benzoyl peroxide, such as this one from Differin (open in new tab).

If you have light spots all over your body but your skin is normal or dry, your acne is likely still caused by clogged pores, but your treatment should be different from that of your oily-skinned friend. Switch your usual cleanser to one with the active ingredient salicylic acid (we like this Aveeno option (open in new tab)).

If your acne is severe and you have tried OTC products for at least a month with no improvement, it may be time to see a dermatologist. If it is determined that the acne is not hormonal, he or she may prescribe a topical vitamin A derivative called tretinoin. Depending on your skin type (dry or oily), they may recommend Altreno, a moisturizing lotion type.

If the condition is not chronic, hydrocolloid patches can be used to cover acne on the head. Some of these patches contain antibacterial active ingredients such as salicylic acid or tea tree oil.

For more articles like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.

Click here to register (opens in new tab)