Understanding Acne: Causes, types, and solutions

Acne is one of the most common skin concerns, especially for teens and young adults. Almost everyone experiences it at some point. However, there’s still a lot of confusion about why those bumps and spots appear. Let’s break it down simply.

Your skin’s natural process

Your skin is covered in tiny openings called pores. Inside each pore is a hair follicle and an oil gland. The oil, known as sebum, is important. It helps keep your skin soft and protected. Normally, dead skin cells rise to the surface and shed away, while the sebum keeps the skin balanced. But sometimes, this natural process doesn’t go smoothly.

What goes wrong

Clogging of pores

When dead skin cells don’t shed properly, they can stick together with oil and block a pore. This blockage can lead to various skin issues.

Buildup of sebum

The trapped oil makes the pore swell. This creates the perfect environment for bacteria to grow, leading to further complications.

Inflammation

Your immune system reacts to the bacteria. That’s when redness, swelling, and pimples show up. Understanding this process is crucial for effective treatment.

Types of acne

Blackheads

These occur when a pore is clogged but still open at the surface. The trapped oil and skin cells darken when exposed to air, giving that black or dark brown “dot” appearance.

Whiteheads

In this case, the pore is completely blocked and closed at the surface. The trapped material looks like a tiny white or skin-colored bump.

Comedones

Blackheads and whiteheads together are called comedones. They are the starting point of acne.

Acne (Pimples, papules and more)

When comedones become inflamed, they can turn into red pimples, pus-filled spots, or even painful deeper lumps known as cysts.

Why does Acne Flare Up?

Hormones

During teenage years, hormone levels rise. This causes oil glands to become more active.

Genetics

If your parents struggled with acne, chances are you might too. Genetics play a significant role in skin health.

Stress, diet, and lifestyle

These factors don’t cause acne directly but can exacerbate it. Managing stress and maintaining a balanced diet can help.

Wrong skincare

Using products that clog pores or strip the skin barrier can trigger more breakouts. Choosing the right skincare is essential.

The good news

Blackheads, whiteheads, and acne don’t mean your skin is “dirty.” They’re just signs that your pores are clogged and inflamed. With the right skincare routine, you can manage oil production, keep pores clear, and support your skin barrier.

At Upenya, we believe in gentle, science-backed care:

• Exfoliating Cleanser: Removes excess oil and dead skin cells.

• Moisturising Gel: Hydrates without clogging pores and protects your barrier.

• Blemish Care: Targets active breakouts and helps skin repair itself.

  
  

Healthy, balanced skin is possible. It starts with understanding what’s really happening under the surface.

Additional tips for managing acne

Maintain a consistent skincare routine

Consistency is key in skincare. Establish a daily routine that includes cleansing, moisturizing, and treating acne. Stick to it for the best results.

Avoid touching your face

Your hands carry bacteria and oils that can worsen acne. Try to avoid touching your face as much as possible.

Stay hydrated

Drinking plenty of water helps keep your skin hydrated and can support overall skin health.

Choose non-comedogenic products

When selecting skincare and makeup products, look for those labeled as non-comedogenic. These products are less likely to clog pores.

Regularly change pillowcases and towels

Bacteria can accumulate on fabrics. Regularly changing your pillowcases and towels can help reduce the risk of breakouts.

Seek professional help

If your acne persists or worsens, consider consulting a dermatologist. They can provide personalized advice and treatment options.

Conclusion

Understanding acne is the first step toward managing it effectively. By recognizing the causes and types of acne, you can take proactive measures. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. With the right knowledge and products, clear skin is within reach.

References

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2. Kurokawa, I., Danby, F.W., Ju, Q., Wang, X., Xiang, L.F., Xia, L., Chen, W., Nagy, I., Picardo, M., Suh, D.H., Ganceviciene, R. & Zouboulis, C.C. (2009) ‘New developments in our understanding of acne pathogenesis and treatment’, Experimental Dermatology, 18(10), pp. 821–832. DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0625.2009.00890.x

3. Lai, Y. & Gallo, R.L. (2009) ‘AMPed up immunity: how antimicrobial peptides have multiple roles in immune defense’, Trends in Immunology, 30(3), pp. 131–141. DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2008.12.003.

4. Dréno, B., Pecastaings, S., Corvec, S., Veraldi, S., Khammari, A. & Roques, C. (2018) ‘Cutibacterium acnes (Propionibacterium acnes) and acne vulgaris: a brief look at the latest updates’, Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 32(Suppl. 2), pp. 5–14. DOI: 10.1111/jdv.15043.

5. Thiboutot, D., Gollnick, H., Bettoli, V., Dréno, B., Kang, S., Leyden, J.J., Shalita, A.R. & Global Alliance to Improve Outcomes in Acne (2009) ‘New insights into the management of acne: an update from the Global Alliance to Improve Outcomes in Acne group’, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 60(5), pp. S1–S50. DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2009.01.019.

6. Preneau, S. & Dréno, B. (2012) ‘Female acne – a different subtype of teenager acne?’, Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 26(3), pp. 277–282. DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-3083.2011.04214.x

7. Dréno, B. (2017) ‘What is new in the pathophysiology of acne, an overview’, Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 31(S5), pp. 8–12. DOI: 10.1111/jdv.14374.