Your Ultimate Guide To Acne: Skincare, Triggers, And Solutions

Acne. It’s one of the most common skin concerns in the world – and one of the most emotionally exhausting. Whether you’re 15 or 35, a breakout can leave you feeling frustrated, defeated and overwhelmed by a sea of conflicting advice.

We understand that acne isn’t just skin deep. It can chip away at your confidence, your peace of mind and your sense of control over your body. But here’s the good news: with the right knowledge and approach, you can learn how to get rid of acne and reclaim your glow – inside and out.

What Is Acne – And Why Does It Happen?

Acne is a common (and commonly misunderstood) skin condition that begins when hair follicles become clogged with excess oil (sebum) and dead skin cells. This creates the perfect breeding ground for cutibacterium acnes, a naturally occurring skin bacterium that, when trapped inside the pore, can multiply and trigger inflammation. The result? Spots, bumps and breakouts that can be mild or severe – and anything but simple.

While acne often starts during puberty, adult acne is more prevalent than you might think – especially among women. Studies suggest adult-onset acne (which often begins in the early 20s but can emerge at any age) is on the rise. Women are particularly affected, and research shows that around 20% of adult women experience acne compared to just 8% of adult men.

Types Of Acne (And Why It Matters)

Breakouts can appear anywhere there’s a high concentration of oil glands – typically the face, chest, shoulders, and back but knowing what kind of acne you have can help you target it more effectively. For example, if your acne is painful, cystic, or scarring, it’s time to consult a dermatologist for professional support.

Non-Inflammatory Acne

• Blackheads: Open pores clogged with oil and dead skin.

• Whiteheads: Closed, clogged pores with a white top.

Inflammatory Acne

• Papules: Small red bumps that may be tender.

• Pustules: Papules with white or yellow pus at the center.

• Nodules: Large, painful lumps deep under the skin.

• Cystic Acne: Deep, inflamed, pus-filled breakouts that can scar.

It’s Not About Dirty Skin or Chocolate

Contrary to popular belief, acne isn’t caused by poor hygiene or eating too many chips (although diet is key, which we’ll come to). Instead, it’s influenced by a complex mix of genetics, hormones, and lifestyle factors. 

Hormonal fluctuations – particularly around menstruation, pregnancy, or perimenopause and menopause – can increase oil production and disrupt the skin’s natural balance. During perimenopause and menopause, for instance, falling estrogen levels mean androgens (male hormones that all women produce) can become more dominant, contributing to breakouts.

The Emotional Toll Of Acne

Whether you have the occasional breakout or chronic cystic acne, the emotional impact is real. Even a few visible spots can affect your confidence, relationships, and quality of life. People with acne may avoid social situations, feel anxious about their appearance, or even take time off work. 

It’s not “just” a cosmetic issue – it’s a condition that deserves empathy and proper care.

If you’re wondering how to get rid of acne, the first step is recognizing that it’s valid to seek support. If you think you might have acne, you probably do – and that means help is available.

How to Get Rid of Acne: Treatment Options That Work

There’s no universal cure for acne. But there are plenty of science-backed ways to tackle acne – from smart skincare to lifestyle tweaks and medical support. With consistency, professional guidance and a bit of self-awareness, you can uncover the routine that works for you. 

Track your breakouts, and if you’re female, understand your cycle. Men aren’t off the hook, either. In fact, testosterone (the dominant male sex hormone) stimulates the skin’s oil glands. More testosterone = more sebum = more potential for clogged pores and breakouts. 

The takeaway is: whatever your age, stage or gender, if your skin doesn’t improve, don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist. Here’s your 360-degree approach to clearer, healthier skin.

Start With Your Diet and Lifestyle

Track Your Triggers

Begin with a food and symptom diary. Note what you eat and drink, your stress levels, your menstrual cycle, and your skincare products. This can help you and your skin specialist identify potential triggers.

Support Your Gut

A healthy gut often equals healthier skin. Try a high-quality probiotic to support digestion and reduce systemic inflammation.

Go Low-GI

While foods like chocolate and fried snacks aren’t the villains we once thought, high glycemic index (GI) foods can be. These spike insulin levels, which in turn trigger excess oil production. Opt for whole grains, vegetables, and legumes instead of white bread and pasta.

Watch The Booze

Sugary cocktails are a skin saboteur. Stick to clear spirits like vodka, gin, or tequila to minimize additives that might aggravate your skin.

Build a Smart, Simple Skincare Routine

Cleanse Gently

Use a cleanser designed for oily or acne-prone skin. We like Revision’s Gentle Foaming Cleanser. This soap-free, dermatologist-tested cleansing foam has a unique amino acid-derived cleansing and skin-softening ingredient called sodium cocoyl glycinate, which effectively removes makeup, excess oil and impurities, unveiling a refreshed complexion.

Keep It Minimal

Avoid overwhelming your skin with too many actives at once. Focus on products that support the skin barrier, like La Roche-Posay’s Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum. This repairing serum uses two types of pure hyaluronic acids: vitamin B5 and madecassoside. Together, they restore moisture, repair the skin’s protective barrier, and kickstart the renewal of skin cells.

Hydrate (Yes, Even If You’re Oily)

Skipping moisturizer can backfire by causing your skin to produce more oil. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Matte Moisturizer is a double-action gel that provides double the repair, giving all-day, shine-free hydration and restoring skin after just one hour.

Treat Strategically

• Salicylic acid unclogs pores and reduces inflammation.

• Benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria and reduces redness.

• Retinoids boost cell turnover and help prevent clogged pores (start slow and use at night).

Protect Your Skin

If you’re prone to breakouts, it’s natural to worry that using sunscreen might block pores and make your skin worse, but sun exposure can worsen acne and lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. 

Layer on a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ like EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Tinted Sunscreen – a lightweight SPF 46 formulated with high-purity niacinamide, which helps reduce the appearance of blemishes. Plus, its sheer tint evens skin tone prone to discoloration associated with acne and rosacea. 

Be Consistent And Patient

Skin often gets worse before it gets better. Introduce new products slowly and give them time to work – at least six to eight weeks.

Professional and Medical Treatments That Can Help

Chemical Peels

Professionally applied acids (like glycolic, mandelic, or salicylic) exfoliate deeply and help reset the skin’s surface. Often used after a few weeks of at-home skin prep.

LED Light Therapy

• Red light reduces inflammation.

• Blue light kills bacteria.

Laser Therapy

Laser treatments can reduce oil production, target bacteria, and calm inflammation – all without damaging skin.

Microneedling and Radiofrequency

These procedures stimulate collagen, helping reduce scarring, improve texture, and prevent future breakouts.

Extractions

If done professionally, extractions can safely remove comedones and prevent scarring.

Topical Retinoids

These prescription-strength creams prevent clogged pores, speed healing, and reduce pigmentation over time.

Oral Antibiotics

Short courses of antibiotics (like tetracycline) can calm inflammation. Paired with benzoyl peroxide, they reduce the risk of resistance.

Hormonal Therapies

Birth control pills can regulate breakouts linked to hormone fluctuations.

Isotretinoin (Accutane)

For severe, cystic acne that doesn’t respond to other treatments, this powerful prescription medication can deliver long-term results under close supervision.

Good Habits That Support Clear Skin

Little daily habits can make a big difference when you’re dealing with acne. Start by keeping anything that touches your face as clean as possible – wash your pillowcases and towels frequently, ideally every day. It might sound excessive, but bacteria and product residue build up fast, and your skin notices.

When it comes to makeup, fingers are often cleaner than brushes, especially if you don’t have time to wash your tools after every use. If you do wear makeup, stick to oil-free, non-comedogenic products that won’t clog pores or add to the problem.

After cleansing, pat your skin dry with a soft tissue rather than a towel – it’s gentler and reduces the risk of irritation or bacteria transfer. And speaking of bacteria: try to keep your hands off your face, and clean your phone regularly. All that scrolling and swiping builds up grime that can end up right on your cheeks.

Finally, don’t underestimate the impact of lifestyle on your skin. Stress, lack of sleep, and dehydration can all show up as breakouts. Support your skin from the inside out with regular movement (yoga and walks count), breathwork to manage stress, plenty of water, and solid sleep. Think of it as skincare that starts before you even touch your face.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Popping pimples: It spreads bacteria and increases the risk of scars.

• Toothpaste on zits: It’s irritating and can delay healing.

• Over-exfoliating: Too many actives can damage your skin barrier.

• Skipping moisturizer: Dehydrated skin overproduces oil.

• Using harsh alcohols or heavy oils: These either dry you out too much or clog pores.

You Deserve Clearer Skin – And Confidence, Too

Acne is complex, but it’s not unbeatable. When you understand the “why” behind your breakouts and create a plan tailored to your skin’s needs, things start to shift. Our mission is to illuminate your path to healthier, happier skin – with expert support, powerful products, and compassionate care every step of the way.

Ready to take the first step toward clearer skin? Explore our acne-friendly skincare range or take the quiz to start your personalised, dermatologist-reviewed plan for free. Our dermatologists will make recommendations from the brands they trust – and there’s no obligation to buy. You’ve got this – and we’ve got you.