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What is ACNE?

Acne is a common skin condition caused by clogged pores from excess oil (sebum), dead skin and bacteria. It appears as blackheads, whiteheads and spots; some people get deeper, painful cystic acne. Breakouts often flare with hormones (puberty, periods), stress, some cosmetics and family history. Helpful basics: benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, a gentle cleanser, non-comedogenic moisturiser and daily SPF. If needed, a clinician may prescribe retinoids, antibiotics, the combined pill, spironolactone or isotretinoin. See your GP if acne is persistent, painful or causing scars.

Where on my body can I develop ACNE?
  • Face & Neck
  • Chest
  • Back and shoulders.
What is ACNE?

What causes ACNE?

When hormones rise (at puberty, around periods or in pregnancy), they tell your skin’s oil glands to make more oil (sebum). The extra oil mixes with dead skin, blocks pores, and lets skin bacteria multiply—leading to spots, blackheads, whiteheads and inflamed breakouts. That’s hormonal acne.

Quick help:
  • Wash gently, use salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide
  • Choose non-comedogenic moisturiser and daily SPF
  • Don’t pick; give treatments 6–8 weeks to work

If acne is painful, scarring or persistent, see your GP—effective acne treatments (retinoids, antibiotics, the combined pill, spironolactone, or isotretinoin) can help.

What causes ACNE?

ACNE formation factors

Face, forehead, chest, upper back and shoulders are the most common areas to have acne due to the presence of more sebaceous (oil-producing) glands that are connected to the hair follicles.

Main causes:
  • The activity of certain hormones at puberty (androgens)
  • Excess oil production by the glands under the skin (sebaceous glands)
  • Bacteria (a specific type called P. Acnes)
  • Blockage of hair follicles by oil and dead skin
Triggers that cause ACNE flare-ups in women:

Many women get pregnancy acne in the first trimester as hormones surge. Adult hormonal acne often flares just before a period and is common in PCOS, which can also cause weight gain. Stress may worsen breakouts. Diet can play a role for some people: high-glycaemic (high-carb) foods and skim milk are linked to more acne, while chocolate or spicy foods trigger spots only in some individuals. Low-quality or comedogenic cosmetics can clog pores—choose non-comedogenic products, remove makeup nightly, and keep a simple skincare routine. If acne is persistent or scarring, speak to your GP about effective acne treatments.

Acne Symptoms

There are six main types of ACNE spots; the appearance of ACNE depends on the severity of the case:

  • Blackheads: small black pumps develop on the skin. The black colour is due to the inner lining of the hair follicle that causes pigmentation (colouring). They can also be described as closed plugged pores.
  • Whiteheads: have the same appearance of blackheads and can also be described as open plugged pores.
  • Papules: small red and tender bumps.
  • Pustules: similar to papules but with a white tip due to pus formation.
  • Nodules: large hard lumps that develop under the skin and may be painful.
  • Cysts: the most severe acne spots. Large pus-filled lumps.
 
Acne Symptoms

FAQs

Can the contraceptive pill help acne?

A variation of the combined contraceptive pill, Co-cyprindiol is sometimes prescribed to women whose acne is related to hormonal changes. This can be particularly beneficial to those women who experience flare ups around with their periods or hormonal conditions.

We may prescribe Co-cyprindiol in combination with Adapalene Gel, Azelaic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide Gel, Epiduo or Duac to try and help manage your acne.

How can i improve my acne?

Avoidance is key to managing breakouts:

  • Hands off! Resist the urge to pick or squeeze pimples. This spreads bacteria, worsens inflammation, and can cause scars.
  • Let your skin breathe: Opt for oil-free makeup and avoid excessive sweating, which can clog pores.
  • Cleanse wisely: Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser twice daily. Over-washing can irritate your skin.
  • Diet for healthy skin (maybe): While the link between diet and acne isn't fully established, a balanced diet and staying hydrated might be beneficial.
Can having acne have an effect on my mood?

It can take a toll on your emotions, leading to feelings of low self-esteem, anxiety, or even depression. If you're struggling with these emotions due to your acne, you're not alone. Talk to your doctor about getting the mental health support you deserve.