Understanding acne

What causes acne

Acne starts when a hair follicle becomes blocked by oil and dead skin cells. Bacteria grow in the blocked pore, and the skin becomes inflamed. It can show up as blackheads and whiteheads, red bumps and pimples, or deeper, painful cysts, on the face, neck, chest, back and shoulders.

It usually begins in the teenage years, when hormones make oil glands more active, but it can carry on into adulthood or start in your 30s and 40s.

Myths worth dropping

Acne isn’t caused by poor hygiene, and scrubbing harder usually makes it worse. Diet plays a smaller part than most people think. A healthy diet helps your skin overall, but cutting out chocolate won’t control acne.

Caring for acne-prone skin

• Wash twice a day with a mild cleanser. Cleansers with salicylic acid or glycolic acid can help keep pores clear.
• Use light, oil-free moisturisers and sunscreens labelled “non-comedogenic”.
• Don’t squeeze or pick, as this raises the risk of scarring and marks.
• Give any new routine at least 8 to 12 weeks before judging it.

When to get help

If acne isn’t improving after two to three months of good home care, or if it’s painful, widespread or leaving marks, see your GP. There are effective prescription treatments, and your GP or a dermatologist will explain their benefits and side effects.

Light-based treatment, such as blue light, is an option for some people with mild to moderate acne. It usually takes a course of sessions, and results vary.

Once acne is under control, any scarring left behind can be assessed separately.

This article is general information, not medical advice. All procedures carry risks.

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