Pimples, blackheads and bumps – aren’t these just an annoyance of puberty? Unfortunately, not. In some cases, sudden acne breakouts in adults can be caused by hormonal fluctuations and stress. When we are stressed, we release cortisol hormones. A surge in testosterone causes oil glands to produce more (oil) which elevates the risk for bacterial infection occurring within the pores, causing pimples to form. A word of advice: don’t pick or pop! See your dermatologist for an exam and prescription that will work.