" Acne Uncovered. Causes, Evidence Based Solutions & Common Myths Debunked

Acne is one of the most common skin concerns worldwide, affecting teens and adults alike. Though it’s often created as a “surface” problem, the science of acne runs deeper  involving oil production, hormones, bacteria, and inflammation. 

This blog is about acne, what's acne, what causes acne, types, why acne happens, what actually helps, what doesn’t, and how to build a clear, evidence based approach to clearer skin. This whole blog is about your confusion and questions about acne.  

You can read or understand about....

What acne means?

• what acne means on certain parts of face? 
• How Acne forms? /How Acne occur
• why do child get acne?

WHAT CAUSES ACNE?

• why acne around mouth and chin?
• when do you get acne?
• what acne means on certain parts of face? 
• Why do I have back acne?

TYPES OF ACNE

INFLAMMATORY ACNE, GENETIC ACNE, ACNE MECHANICA , HORMONAL ACNE, NON-INFLAMMATORY ACNE, FUNGAL  ACNE

• why do i get cystic acne?
• Is acne genetic? 
• What is fungal acne?

ACNE MYTHS VS Science  

•  Acne Is Caused by Dirty Skin.
• why does chocolate cause acne? 
• The stronger the treatment, the better
• Popping pimples makes them go away faster
• why does toothpaste helps with acne?
•  Acne will heal on its own, don't need to be treated 

ACNE TREATMENTS

• Aloe Vera
• Apple Cider Vinegar
• Green Tea
• Turmeric
• Jojoba Oil
• Proper Diet
• Cautions using natural remedies.:

Products for Acne 

1. Benzoyl Peroxide

2. Salicylic Acid

3. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

MEDICATION TREATMENTS

• 1. ANTIBIOTICS 
• 2. . RETINOIDS

Is retinol is good for acne?

• 3. ADAPALENE GEL

CHEMICAL PEELS TREATMENT

Skin Care routine for Acne prone skin

• what acne treatments add 4 steps?

Morning Routine

• 1. Cleanser

 Why it works?

• 2. Benzoyl Peroxide ingredient

How to apply?

•  3.Sunscreen

Night Routine

• 1. salicylic acid cleanser (BHA) 

1. How to use?
2. Why it help?

• 2. Adapalene gel (retinoid) 

1. Why it help?
2.  How to use?

• 3. Moisturizer

Weekly routine for acne prone skin

• Exfoliation
• Clay mask

When to consult Dermatologist ?

Consistently  Asked Question from consumers

• When can i  get rid of acne?
• Is acne permanent?
• In adults can hormonal imbalance cause acne?
• is acne is contagious?
• is acne a sign of pregnancy?
• what acne treatments safe for pregnancy?/ what acne treatments affect birth defects?
• Is rubbing alcohol is good for acne
• Is tea tree oil is good for acne?
• Is witch hazel is good for acne?
• Is zinc is good for acne treatment or not?

What acne means?

When air glands becomes clogged under the skin it cause acne which is usually a skin condition.

How Acne forms? /How Acne occur?

Sebum oil that helps keep skin drying out and dead skin cells plug the pores, which leads to the breakouts of lesions, commonly called pimples of zit.

Main aspects in acne formation

• Excess sebum production
• Clogged pores
• Bacterial activity
• Inflammation

WHO GET ACNE?

Teenagers often get acne. People of any age can get acne. When skin pores get clogged it becomes acne

why do child get acne?

Because of hormonal changes but by the time acne heals itself also when child grows hormones like androgen increase which increase oil production in skin which causes acne.

WHAT CAUSES ACNE? 

SKIN OIL GLANDS(Sebum)

 Our skin has oil glands that produce oil to make our skin soft. Sometimes, when these glands produce excessive oil which can mix with dead skin cells and block pores. This cause growth of bacteria in these pores.

why acne around mouth and chin?

Sebaceous glands produced sebum. Body hormones like androgens can increase the sebum production. As a result, acne frequently appears   during puberty or hormonal changes.

Where we have oil glands usually acne appears in these areas of skin, mostly in forehead, chin, nose, cheeks, nose, back acne.

when do you get acne?

GUT HEALTH

The gut is responsible for absorption of essential nutrients, including those that are beneficial to healthy skin. A healthy gut sure the efficient absorption of vitamins, minerals that are beneficial for skin, like vitamin-A,D and zinc.

Leaky Gut Syndrome

Responsibility of leaky gut syndrome, it can allow toxins, bacteria, and other harmful substances to leave from the digestive tract and enter the bloodstream. This can activate an immune response and inflammation, clearly affecting the skin

PROBIOTICS

Beneficial bacteria are known as probiotics that can help support healthy gut. certain strain of probiotics may help to reduce inflammation and improve skin conditions(acne) suggestion by some studies.

DIETARY FACTORS

Food is the primary reason in our skin, intestine health, it affect our stomach system. A healthy enrich diet with fiber, fruits, vegetables can increase a good stomach health.

Gut balance can disrupt by high in sugar diets, processes foods, unhealthy fats and clearly worsen acne.

STRESS

Stress can have negative impacts on health. It negatively affect the gut health by changing the gut microbiome and increasing inflammation. Because acne flare up is also happened to be triggered by stress 

Friction and Irritation Skin irritation / frictions

Acne can be fluctuate by any kind of friction or skin irritation. irritation gets from wearing any equipment's like caps, masks. It destroy normal skin peeling.

what acne means on certain parts of face? 

acne occurs on certain areas of face means it can causes from several reasons .

 If you have acne near lips area it means acne is caused by some lips or cosmetic products or any allergic, irritation issues , because it's a sensitive area of face ,it can also be a  hormonal acne 

Acne around chin area or jawline  means its causes by hormonal imbalances.

Acne around nose area means excessive oil production in nose or sebum production which cause pores becomes clogged.

Acne around the cheeks area means its simply due to any of the makeup or skincare products, also occurs due to pillow case, friction or may be common acne.

Acne on forehead means its due to cap friction , scalp being oily , hair products.

Acne around neck area means its due to sweating , friction may be hormonal acne , it can also due to shaving 

Why do I have back acne?

its also due to several reasons 

• Hormonal imbalances
• Stress
• Friction
• Hair  products
• Sweating
• Folliculitis

A tiny bumps appear after sweating it is itchy, finery

TYPES OF ACNE

1. INFLAMMATORY ACNE.

Papule: Are small, red tender bumps that form when hair follicles become inflamed, they do not contain pus.

Pustules: Are similar to papules but filled with yellow or white pus. They are often surrounded by burning the  skin.

Nodules: Are larger, painful, solid lumps beneath surface of skin, resulting from rise up  of multiple, burning hair follicles.

Cysts: Are deep, pus filled lumps that are very painful. They can cause scarring. it  should  not be  squeezed or popped or it can be worse by doing this. 

2. NON-INFLAMMATORY ACNE

White heads(closed comedones)

These are small, fleshed colored or white bumps that occur when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. The pore opening is closed, which trapped the material from oxidizing.

Black heads(open comedones)

Black heads are similar to white heads, but pores opening remains same. This allow trapped material to oxidize and turn lack, giving them their characteristics appears.

3.ACNE CONGLOBATER (AC)

Is a rare but severe form of nodulocystic acne, affects often males more than females. It can lead to scarring  abscesses(collection of pus) on face, shoulder, back, chest, upper arm. 

4. ACNE MECHANICA 

This type of acne caused by friction, pressure or eat on skin. It's often seen in athletes who wear tights fitting clothes.

5.HORMONAL ACNE

Often occurs in women due to hormonal imbalance such as during mensuration, pregnancy, menopauses'. It appears as deep, painful cyst production of sebum, excess stress.

6.GENETIC ACNE

Genetic acne may be known as inherited acne.

If you have family history who have acne is basically transfer to other generation too but the main cause of having acne is your gut health, have certain skin conditions, trigger immune system or inflammation. 

it's not necessary that every person have acne it happened to some people who have certain skin problems or poor gut health  get acne.

but it's not permanently having a skin care can get rid of acne

7.FUNGAL  ACNE

Overgrowth of yeast like fungus called Malassezia folliculitis can cause imitate acne. It's not like bacterial acne which cause from bacteria Propionibacterium, Fungal acne is caused by imbalance of skin microbiome.

Appears as small, itchy, red or fleshed color bumps that look like a acne. Usually found on chest, back, shoulders and sometimes on face.

why do i get cystic acne?

When skin glands have produce too much oil it causes inflammation in skin and skin pores becomes clogged. It create a lump, a painful lump in skin.

Is acne genetic? 

Genetic acne is also known as inherited acne.

If you have family history who have acne is basically transfer to other generation too but the main cause of having acne is your gut health, have certain skin conditions, trigger immune system or inflammation. 

What is fungal acne?

Overgrowth of yeast like fungus called Malassezia folliculitis can cause imitate acne. It's not like bacterial acne which cause from bacteria Propionibacterium, Fungal acne is caused by imbalance of skin microbiome.

ACNE MYTHS VS Science  

 Acne Is Caused by Dirty Skin.

Fact: Acne is  caused by many reasons like excess oil production, clogged pores. Skin is very sensitive when you have acne, so, its important to don't over burden your skin. sometimes, by washing face too much can also irritate the skin and may  inflame acne

Why? 

our skin has sebaceous glands that produce natural  oil , when there is a excessive oil production in skin it cause acne, hormonal imbalance can cause acne, Its not only a dirty skin.

why does chocolate cause acne? 

Fact: Diet and acne is not directly linked. Some evidence suggests that sebum and inflammation can affected by high glycemic foods, but fat or chocolate only do not cause acne. But a balanced diet can take part to overall skin health.

Popping pimples makes them go away faster

Fact: Squeezing, popping can cause more problem by bring bacteria deeper and increase inflammation or scarring in skin.

Is acne is contagious?

Fact: Acne is not contagious. it cannot passes from one person to another.  Individual factors like genetics and hormones is related to have acne

why does toothpaste helps with acne?

Fact: No, it's not true because toothpaste has ingredients that can worsen the acne more. ingredients like fluorides, SLS, parabens that can causes more pimples, more sensitive skin. 

Dermatologists doesn't recommend  toothpaste for acne treatment. 

 Acne will heal on its own, don't need to be treated  

Fact: Acne need proper treatment to be clear , early treatment helps to heal skin easily , helps preventing skin from scars , minimize the breakouts. Without treatment acne can continue and worsen. But some people may over grow acne by not treating it.

The stronger the treatment, the better

Fact: Aggressive treatments without barrier support can lead to irritation, increased oil production. Gentle consistency often performs powerful intensity.

ACNE TREATMENTS

BY NATURAL SKIN CARE PRODUCTS FOR ACNE PRONE SKIN

Aloe Vera

Apply Pure Aloe Vera to acne prone areas of  skin can reduce the redness, inflammation because of has anti-inflammatory properties also known as wound healing properties. Aloe Vera also have calming effect .

Apple Cider Vinegar

Diluted apple vinegar can helps with acne but not fully treated. Simply, you can mix equal amount of apple vinegar and water and dip it in a cotton pad , apply it in your skin. This can helps skin pH level stable and helps minimize bacteria that causes bacteria.

Green Tea

Green tea have so many properties (anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory properties). It can helps in acne to make skin clear . Simply, you can boil a cup of water, add green tea , wait until it is warm and use it in your face. You can use it by dip it in a cotton pad and also can use it like a facial toner.

Turmeric

Turmeric is also helpful in acne, it has anti-inflammatory, anti-antioxidants, anti- microbial properties. Make a paste by adding some turmeric and water and use it in your face . Turmeric can remain its color so , use it in very small amount so it can't stain clothes or skin. 

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil can help balance oil production which is similar to the skin's natural sebum. Apply as a moisturizer only  few drops to the face

Proper Diet

Skin needs internal care by using a well balanced diet,  a healthy diet include fruits, vegetables, whole grains that gives vitamins, minerals to your body. when body becomes healthy skin also become healthy. A lot of people who have  acne, their skin is easily irritated by using dietary food and sugary foods. So, they avoid it , to make skin becomes more worsen.

Cautions using natural remedies.: Natural remedies are not for everyone. 

Every skin is different and every skin is response different to same products. Some people usually doesn't irritated, allergic by using different skincare products or natural remedies. But some people have so much sensitive skin, that their skin is not tolerated any natural ingredients.

That's why, a patch test is recommended to do before using any remedies to your face. By doing a patch test, it's easier to know ''how skin is respond to ingredients'' , it helps person to avoid any irritation and allergic issue..

 Products for Acne 

1. Benzoyl Peroxide

Why it help?

This can reduce inflammation, unclog pores and help to kill acne .Available in  creams, gels, and face wash forms.

2. Salicylic Acid

Is salicylic acid is good for acne?

Salicylic acid is used for exfoliation. And exfoliation removes the dead skin that helps skin clear clogged pores. Salicylic acid can be used in many ways such as

•  cleansers 
• skin toners 

3. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

Why it help?

AHAs like glycolic acid can reduce the appearance of acne and improving skin texture and help exfoliate the skin.

MEDICATION TREATMENTS

1. ANTIBIOTICS 

To reduce inflammation and acne causing bacteria antibiotics like clindamycin and erythromycin can be prescribed from dermatologists.

2. . RETINOIDS

Is retinol is good for acne?

Retinoids is known for cell turnover process that can helps in collagen production. Using retinoid regularly can helps skin unclogged pores. (Tretinoin as Retin-A)

3. ADAPALENE GEL

It can promote fast healing of enlarge pimples and decrease the number.  Adapalene belongs to a class of medications called retinoids

It works by decreasing swelling, inflammation and affecting the growth of cells .

CHEMICAL PEELS TREATMENT

In Chemical peel, a chemical solution is applying to the skin which exfoliates the upper most layer of dead skin, that's helps the skin become more clear and helps reduce the acne and acne scars.

.

Skin Care routine for Acne prone skin

what acne treatments add 4 steps?

Morning Routine

1. Cleanser that include ingredients ceramides and salicylic acid 

Use a gentle cleanser to remove excess oil and  without disrupt the skin barrier.

 Why it works?

Over stripping can lead  to increase oil production which can worsen the acne

2. Benzoyl Peroxide ingredient

Effective for Inflammation

Benzoyl peroxide kills C. acne bacteria and to reduces redness and irritation start with lower percentage (2.5%) to minimize irritation

How to apply?

apply a thin layer

 3.Sunscreen

 UV damage and prevents post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark marks after acne) can avoid by using oil free broad spectrum sunscreen.

Night Routine

1. salicylic acid cleanser (BHA) 

Best for Unclogging Pores

Salicylic acid enters into the pores and helps dissolve oil and dead skin.

How to use?

You can use it 1 to 2 times a day.

if you start using this ingredients for the first time then use product that have low concentration (0.5%-2%)

Why it help?

Because  It’s oil soluble and works inside the pore rather than just on the surface.

2. Adapalene gel (retinoid)

when used appropriately retinol targets acne related bacteria and inflammation 

Why it help?

Treat acne by reducing inflammation , clogged pores , work deep in skin pores clearing blackheads, white heads and improve skin texture

 How to use?

Cleanse your face with gentle cleanser, wait until it dry then apply  a thin layer of adapalene gel on targeted areas of face and after 1 minutes apply moisturizer. Use it daily once at night

Check this Retinol benefits for skin

3. Moisturizer

One of the biggest mistakes people make is avoid moisturizer. Acne treatments can be drying  and dryness can trigger more oil.

Choose non comedogenic products that

Support the skin barrier

Don't use too harsh ingredients because acne prone skin is already a sensitive skin.

Ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid that support barrier.

Weekly routine for acne prone skin

Exfoliation

 Exfoliation is used for removing dead skin , by removing this dead skin it helps the skin pores unclogged. You can use the chemical based exfoliation such as glycolic acid and salicylic acid.

Clay mask

 use clay mask that contain sulfur, it can help to reduce oil formation by absorb excess oil.

When to consult Dermatologist ?

Consulting a dermatologist when.

• Acne is severe or cystic
• Over the counter (OTC) treatments don’t help after 6-8 weeks
• You notice scarring or pigmentation
• You’re unsure what about prescription options exist.
• Professionals can prescribe these retinoids, antibiotics, hormonal therapies, or combination especially for your skin.

Consistently  Asked Question from consumers

When can i  get rid of acne?

Acne treatments takes times almost 2-4 months then after regular treatment you can get rid of acne.

Is acne permanent?

Acne takes too much time to be clear but if you start treating it from the beginning then it can be reduce or clear. But, you have to add skincare products appropriately that are suitable for your skin , better if you take helps from dermatologist.

In adults can hormonal imbalance cause acne?

Yes, Acne flare ups can activated by hormonal changes. especially during menstrual cycles or stressful time.

is acne is contagious?

No, acne is not contagious, it cannot get from sharing things, by touching anyone , its happens due to hormonal issue, sweating, excessive oil production, friction.

is acne a sign of pregnancy?

Acne is not the valid to assume that you have pregnancy, acne can occurs during pregnancy's, because hormones changes can increase oil production which cause acne.

what acne treatments safe for pregnancy?/ what acne treatments affect birth defects?

Dermatologists recommend to avoid using topical retinols during pregnancy . Retinol,, retinal, adapalene, tretinoin , Tazarotene, Accutane must be avoid using during pregnancy.

Is rubbing alcohol is good for acne

No, its not safe . It can remove oil from skin temporary but it also disrupt natural skin barrier, causes irritation, itchiness, redness, burning sensation, increase inflammation , also can worsen the acne more.

Is tea tree oil is good for acne?

It helps reduce inflammation in skin. 

Is witch hazel is good for acne?

it can reduce oil from skin temporary but may cause irritation on skin.

Is zinc is good for acne treatment or not?

yes, acne  can reduce by using zinc 

But also remember that, its not helpful for cystic acne.

At the End

Acne is not a cosmetic distraction it’s a biological condition with multiple giving factors.

A long term improvements is a result of suitable skincare routine, consistent use of proven ingredients, and attention to skin barrier health 

 Consistency is a key if you want a good and healthy skin, constantly do it and trust the process it might takes a month but at the end of this skin care journey you get your good  skin

   Thank You

tell me if it's helpful for you, clear up your confusion about acne or if you want to more  about this ask me.