Understanding Acne: What Causes It and How to Treat It Effectively
Acne is one of the most common skin concerns, affecting people of all ages. Whether you're a teenager experiencing your first breakout or an adult dealing with persistent spots, understanding acne and how to manage it is key to achieving clearer skin.
Let’s explore what causes acne and the most effective ways to treat it.
What Is Acne?
Acne is a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells.
This blockage can lead to pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and even more severe forms like cysts or nodules which can lead to scarring. Acne often appears on the face, chest, back, and shoulders—areas with the most oil glands.
While acne is often associated with teenagers (affecting up to 8-9 people out of every 10 teenagers), it’s not limited to them. Many adults experience acne well into their 20s, 30s, 40s, and beyond.
What Causes Acne?
Several factors contribute to acne. Understanding these can help you identify the triggers and manage breakouts effectively.
1. Excess Oil (Sebum) Production
Your skin naturally produces oil to keep it hydrated and protected. However, excessive oil can mix with dead skin cells and block pores, leading to acne.
2. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause can increase oil production and make acne worse. This is why teenagers and women often experience breakouts.
3. Bacteria Build-Up
Bacteria called Cutibacterium acnes (formerly known as Propionibacterium acnes or P.acnes) can grow in clogged pores, causing inflammation and pimples.
4. Diet and Lifestyle Factors
Foods with a high glycaemic index, such as sugary snacks and processed foods, may trigger acne in some people. Stress, lack of sleep, and poor skincare habits can also play a role.
5. Genetic Predisposition
Acne can often run in families. If your parents, siblings or cousins had acne, you might be more prone to it. Genetics can influence how your skin produces oil and responds to bacteria.
6. Medications
Certain medications can trigger acne in some individuals. Testosterone (a hormone) is being used more to enhance body performance or to transition from male to female. It often increases oil production that leads to acne. A term “Jakne” has been used colloquially to describe a group of medications called Jak inhibitors used to treat autoinflammatory and autoimmune conditions which can cause an acne like reaction.
How to Treat Acne Effectively
Treating acne requires a combination of the right skincare products, lifestyle changes, and sometimes professional help. Here’s how to tackle it:
1. Establish a Gentle Skincare Routine
Start with a simple routine to avoid overwhelming your skin. This may include:
Cleanser: Use a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove dirt and oil without stripping your skin.
Moisturiser: Even oily skin needs hydration. Choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser.
Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays with a non-comedogenic 30+ or 50+ sunscreen.
2. Try Prevent It In The First Place
While it’s not always possible to prevent acne completely, these steps can help minimise breakouts:
Stick to Your Skincare Routine: Consistency is key to keeping your skin clear.
Wash Your Face After Sweating: Especially after exercise, to remove sweat and oil build-up.
Change Pillow Cases Regularly: Dirty pillow cases can harbour bacteria and oil.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps maintain your skin’s health.
Be Patient: Acne treatments take time. It may take weeks or even months to see significant improvement.
3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Diet: Include more fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Reduce sugary and greasy foods.
Stress Management: Practise relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation to minimise stress.
Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep to give your skin time to repair.
4. Avoid Common Triggers
Touching Your Face: Keep your hands off your face to prevent transferring bacteria.
Heavy Makeup: Opt for non-comedogenic makeup products to avoid clogged pores.
Harsh Products: Avoid scrubbing or using overly drying skincare products, as these can irritate the skin.
Avoid Picking: Picking your skin or popping your pimples will aggravate your skin and cause more bacteria to get in. By keeping your nails trimmed, avoiding spending too long in the mirror and subconsciously picking will help keep your skin clear.
5. Seek Professional Help
Unfortunately despite the big promises on the packaging, many off the shelf products (and some over the counter and prescription medication) fail to produce long-term results.
If you’ve tried store-bought products that have not solved your acne, don’t worry — our dermatology specialist can help.
We can prescribe specialised treatments tailored to your specific skin type, including:
Isotretinoin (Roaccutane/Oratane)
Hormone Therapy - birth control or anti-androgenic tablets
Ready to Take Control of Your Skin?
Clear, healthy skin is possible with the right care and support. If you’re struggling with acne, ACNE RX is here to help! Our expert team offers personalised solutions to tackle even the toughest breakouts.
Contact ACNE RX today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your goal of clear skin.
