Acne

Acne (acne vulgaris) is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria. It can appear at any age but is most common during puberty and young adulthood.

The condition is thought to affect 10 million people in the UK and varies greatly in severity from person to person. Some people may just have a few blackheads or whiteheads while others may have more severe nodular acne or cystic acne. Because the effects of acne are so visible, the condition can have a significant psychological effect as well as a physical one, by causing embarrassment and self-consciousness.

What are the Causes of Acne?

Excess oil production (overactive sebaceous glands).
Clogged pores due to dead skin cells.
Bacterial growth (Cutibacterium acnes).
Hormonal changes (puberty, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, PCOS).
Diet & lifestyle (high sugar, dairy, stress, poor sleep).
Medications (steroids, lithium, some contraceptives).
Genetics – family history of acne increases risk.

What are the Symptoms of Acne?

Blackheads (open comedones)
Whiteheads (closed comedones)
Papules (red, inflamed bumps)
Pustules (pus-filled spots)
Nodules & cysts (painful, deep lumps that may scar)

Most often acne occurs on the face, chest, shoulders, and back.

Who can get Acne?

Although you may think of acne as a teenage problem, that is not necessarily the case. Adult acne is actually on the rise, with men and particularly women in their late 20s and 30s and even 40s and 50s developing the condition, even if they did not have spots as teenagers.

What are the best Acne Treatments?

There are many options for treating acne. Often using the right products in the right order can make a difference but in some instances further professional treatment and medication may be required.

1. Self-care & Over-the-counter (OTC):

Gentle cleansing twice daily (avoid harsh scrubs).
Salicylic acid → unclogs pores.
Benzoyl peroxide → reduces bacteria & inflammation.
Niacinamide → calms redness and oiliness.

Check out our on-line shop for recommendations for acne skincare

2. Prescription treatments (Dermatologist-guided):

Topical retinoids (adapalene, tretinoin) → prevent clogged pores.
Topical or oral antibiotics → reduce bacteria/inflammation
Hormonal treatments (combined oral contraceptives, spironolactone for women).
Oral isotretinoin (Roaccutane®) → for severe, resistant acne.

To find out more about these treatments please book in an acne consultation with one of our dermatologists or doctors

3. Clinical Treatments

We offer a range of clinical treatments to help you get control of your acne. As every skin and patient is different, we tailor the treatment to you. That’s why we advise booking acne consultation with one of our dermatologists or doctors who will recommend the most suitable treatment plan for you. Treatments may include:

Chemical peels ( (salicylic, glycolic, lactic acid)
BBL Forever Clear Laser/Light therapy
Medical facials or extractions.

Visit our Acne Treatments page to find out more or to book, click on the links below:

How to prevent getting Acne?

Some Acne is not preventable despite your best efforts as often it is a result of hormones or genetics, however these tips can help.

Wash face gently twice daily; avoid over-washing.
Remove makeup completely before bed.
Use non-comedogenic (oil-free) skincare/makeup.
Avoid touching or picking spots (reduces scarring).
Manage stress, sleep well, and maintain a balanced diet.
Wash pillowcases and makeup brushes regularly.

FAQs

Q1. Can certain foods cause acne?
Diets high in sugar, dairy, or processed foods may worsen acne in some people.

Q2. Does stress cause acne?
Stress doesn’t directly cause acne but can worsen it by triggering hormones that increase oil production.

Q3. Is acne only a teenage problem?
No. Adult acne is very common, especially in women due to hormonal changes.

Q4. How long does treatment take?
Most treatments take 6–12 weeks before significant improvement is seen.

Q5. Can acne cause scars?
Yes, severe or untreated acne can leave scars. Early treatment helps prevent this.

Proven Secrets: Eliminating Acne and Scarring eBook

Take a look at clinic founder, Holly Mason’s, recently published book about proven secrets in eliminating acne and scarring.

Free Download: Acne Top Tips

Acne can be controlled but not cured. Seeking and following professional advice and having the right treatment plan are key to managing and keeping it under control.