To The Root

5 Acne Types & How They Present

Robyn Spangler Episode 23

In this episode of To The Root, Robyn Spangler offers an in-depth look at the five types of acne from a root cause perspective—not just what’s happening on your skin, but why. Rather than relying on surface-level solutions or trendy product fixes, Robyn walks you through how acne can be driven by hormonal imbalances, underlying infections, chronic inflammation, topical irritants, and even cellular stress.

Backed by over a decade of clinical experience, she explains how each category can show up on the skin, what patterns may signal deeper internal imbalances, and why personalized lab testing is often the missing link in resolving persistent acne. If you’ve tried “all the things” and still feel stuck, this episode helps connect the dots between what’s happening beneath the surface and what’s showing up in the mirror.

Whether you're dealing with chin breakouts, cystic flare-ups, or body acne that doesn’t respond to topical treatments, this episode provides the clarity and direction you need to take the next step in your skin health journey.

Tune in now!

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Highlights:

  • The Five Root Causes of Acne: hormonal, infection, inflammation, irritant, and stress-related—how each presents and what to look for.
  • Understanding Hormonal Imbalances: Why it's rarely just about testosterone, and the deeper mechanisms that disrupt skin health.
  • Gut-Skin Connection: How internal infections, dysbiosis, or even topical fungal imbalances may be influencing your breakouts.
  • Chronic Inflammation: What it looks like on the skin, how to identify the sources, and why repair is just as important as removal.
  • Irritant vs. Immune Response: When your acne may be a reaction to products, fabrics, or a more complex immune system dysfunction.
  • The Role of Cellular Stress: How nutrient depletion, mitochondrial function, and mineral imbalances impact your skin’s resilience.
  • Combination Cases: Why most chronic acne cases involve more than one root cause—and the importance of a tailored approach.


Connect with Robyn:

Instagram: @nutritionbyrobyn 

Website: https://www.theclearskinlab.com