Acne

Acne is one of the most common skin concerns and one of the most misunderstood. It can appear during teenage years or persist well into adulthood. For some, it's the occasional breakout. For others, it's chronic inflammation, painful cysts, or post-acne marks that linger long after the spots are gone.

What is Acne?

Acne is a skin condition that develops when pores become clogged with excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. This leads to inflammation, blackheads, whiteheads, or deeper nodules and cysts.

Hormonal changes, stress, diet, and skin type can all affect how severe or persistent acne becomes.

Types of Acne

Different acne types may appear on their own or in combination. The most common include:

  • Whiteheads (Closed comedones): Small, flesh-coloured bumps under the skin
  • Blackheads (Open comedones): Pores clogged with oil and dead skin, exposed to air
  • Papules: Small, red bumps without pus
  • Pustules: Pimples filled with white or yellow pus
  • Nodules: Large, painful lumps deep within the skin
  • Cysts: Inflamed, pus-filled lesions that may scar

What Causes Acne?

Acne can be influenced by several factors, often in combination:

  • Excess oil production (sebum)
  • Hormonal changes: Puberty, menstrual cycle, PCOS
  • Bacterial overgrowth (Cutibacterium acnes)
  • Clogged pores from dead skin
  • Stress and lack of sleep
  • Friction or pressure on the skin
  • Certain medications or cosmetics
  • Diet: For some, high sugar or dairy intake may be a factor
  • Fungal acne: Caused by yeast overgrowth, not bacteria
  • Hormonal acne: Deep, painful breakouts usually around the jawline and chin
  • Acne mechanica: Triggered by friction from masks, helmets or tight clothing

Available Treatments

Frequently Asked Questions

Can acne clear up on its own?

Mild acne may improve over time, but moderate to severe acne often needs targeted treatment to prevent scarring.

No. Acne is not a result of dirty skin. In fact, over-cleansing can damage the skin barrier and worsen breakouts.

Certain products can clog pores. It’s best to choose makeup labelled as non-comedogenic and remove it thoroughly before bed.

It’s not recommended, squeezing can worsen inflammation and increase the risk of scarring or infection.

Acne can return if underlying causes like hormones or skincare habits aren’t addressed. Maintenance treatments and lifestyle adjustments may help keep it under control.