Acne develops when the skin produces too much oil. This excess oil mixes with dead skin cells and can clog the pores (hair follicles). When a pore becomes blocked, naturally occurring skin bacteria can multiply inside it. This leads to inflammation, which is why acne can appear red, swollen, and sometimes filled with pus.

• Open comedones (blackheads) and closed comedones (whiteheads)

• Inflammatory papules (red bumps) and pustules (pus-filled)

• Nodules and cysts in Grades III–IV

• Post-inflammatory marks (PIE/PIH) after healing

While acne begins with clogged pores and excess oil, certain factors can make breakouts more likely or worsen existing acne.

Common triggers include:

• Hormonal changes: such as puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or hormonal conditions.

• Stress – increased stress can stimulate oil production in the skin.

• Certain skincare or makeup products: particularly products that are heavy or pore-clogging.

• Diet: high sugar foods and dairy may trigger breakouts in some people.

• Medications:some medications can affect hormones or oil production.

• Genetics: if acne runs in your family, you may be more prone to it.

• Friction or pressure on the skin from things like helmets, masks, or tight clothing.

Acne is very common and often influenced by a combination of these factors. Understanding your triggers can help guide the right treatment and skincare plan.

• Reduce refined sugar, processed foods and dairy where possible

• Keep hands away from the face change pillowcases twice weekly

• Manage stress, cortisol directly increases sebum production

• Use non-comedogenic, oil-free products only

• Use non-comedogenic makeup only

• Corrective peels

• IsClinical Facials

• Sylfirm X

• LED

• Skin needling

• The gentle restorative enzyme

• HydraFacials