Even though acne is common most people don’t like it or want it. These bright red lumps can pop up anywhere and be quite painful. Not only that, but it can cause feelings of discomfort and self-consciousness. Striving for perfection is unrealistic but with the right skincare, here’s how to make acne go away!
Causes & Types
Acne occurs when the skin’s hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. This leads to the formation of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Some factors contributing to the development of acne include excess oil production (known as sebum), clogged pores, hormonal changes, genetics, inflammation, diet, friction/pressure, and stress. Whilst some of these causes can be easily altered, others might be more challenging. Please remain realistic about your skin expectations – especially if you have teenage skin or turbulent hormones.
Just to make things slightly more confusing there are different kinds of acne too. Before deciding to treat your skin for acne, it is best to determine which kind you have. Here are some of the most common types:
- Open comedones (blackheads)
- Closed comedones (whiteheads)
- Papules (blind pimples just under the surface)
- Pustules (large red lumps with white or yellow center)
- Nodules (deep lumps under the skin)
- Cysts (deep painful lumps filled with pus – most severe)
Considering the range of factors and the different types of acne, it is difficult to treat because everyone’s situation is unique.
That doesn’t mean you should give up though! It might just take time with some trial and error before you discover what is causing your skin concerns. Don’t focus on achieving perfection, just focus on seeing improvements.
How to treat acne
First, you must recognise the cause of your acne – doing this first will allow you to treat your skin concerns more specifically. You also might discover that multiple factors are at play. Here’s a ‘cheat sheet’ on how to start treating your acne based on what is causing it:
| Cause | Treatment info & tips |
| Excess oil production | Regular cleansing with a gentle pH-balanced product, chemical exfoliation (e.g. salicylic acid), regular moisturizing with noncomedogenic and oil-free products. Might like to trial using topical products containing niacinamide or L-carnitine. |
| Clogged pores | Avoid picking, squeezing or excessive scrubbing. Cleanse regularly with a gentle pH-balanced product and exfoliate a few times per week using a mild exfoliating scrub. Chemical exfoliation could also be considered (e.g. salicylic or glycolic acid). Occasionally steaming your face or applying clay masks can also help the pores to unclog. Ensure you are not applying pore-clogging makeup or other products to your face. Might like to try using hyaluronic acid as a moisturizer that does not clog pores. |
| Hormonal changes | It is worth speaking to a professional to consider topical retinoids, birth control, anti-androgen medications, oral antibiotics, or Isotretinoin (Accutane). Hormonal acne is difficult to treat and sometimes requires medical intervention, patience and consistency is key when waiting to see results. |
| Genetics | If possible about the best treatment options. Genetic disposition might be related to overproduction of oil, skin sensitivities, or hormonal imbalance. If one of these causes is suspected by you or a family member then see the associated sections for treatment tips. |
| Inflammation | Stress in the body can cause inflammation which damages the oil in pores therefore causing acne. Some factors causing inflammation: are the environment, stress, infection, auto-immune conditions, toxins, and certain foods. Perhaps try increasing antioxidants in your diet, or a diet with less refined carbohydrates (sugar, gluten, processed foods etc.). If you suspect an auto-immune condition or allergic response then please consult with a health professional. |
| Diet | Adult acne may be impacted by diet due to some foods promoting inflammation. Some foods known to cause inflammation are high-fat foods, and sugary foods/beverages. It is unlikely that a clean diet will guarantee clear skin, but moderating your intake and ensuring a balanced diet may help (particular those with adult acne). |
| Friction/pressure | Acne mechanica develops due to particular friction or pressure. This type of acne is common all over the body due to clothing, or long periods of sitting with minimal movement. Consider the use of benzoyl peroxide to assist in removing dead skin cells (be careful – this bleaches fabrics!). Alternatively, salicylic acid can also be used. Of course, keep up a regular gentle cleansing routine to keep the area clean. |
| Stress | Stress may not cause acne, but it can impact your body’s ability to heal the wounds caused by acne. Emotional/psychological stress can also cause the body to release the hormone cortisol. An imbalance of hormones can trigger acne. Focus on self-care, try not to pick/squeeze your skin, and consider ways to alleviate personal stresses in your life. |
When to meet with a professional
If you’re dealing with acne that is persistent or severe, seeking professional help is advisable. Here are some of the signs indicating that it’s time to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional:
- Persistent acne (treatments aren’t working)
- Severe acne (deep cysts, nodules, widespread inflammation etc.)
- Painful acne (again – deep cysts, nodules, and widespread inflammation)
- Scarring (or skin texture changes)
- Psychological impact (low self-esteem, negative impact on mental health)
- Hormonal acne (can be beneficial to review hormone imbalances with a professional)
- Pre-existing health conditions (E.g. polycystic ovary syndrome – PCOS etc.)
Remember that everyone’s skin is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Dermatologists have the expertise to assess your specific skin type, identify the underlying causes of your acne, and recommend personalized treatment plans. Seeking professional help early can lead to more effective management and prevent potential long-term consequences.
With regards to acne medication such as ‘isotretinoin’, speaking with a professional is necessary before commencing a medication regime. It is also extremely important that side effects and possible risks are considered before this medication is taken.
Final thoughts
This blog post is intended as a guide to help you begin treating your acne. if your acne is persistent and there is no improvement, please go and speak with a professional. Acne can be complex, so seeking out the opinion of a dermatologist can make a big difference.
