Acne is often thought of as a teenage problem, but it's one of the most common skin concerns in adults too, and it can really knock your confidence. Here's what's going on, and what helps.
What is acne?
Acne happens when hair follicles become blocked with oil (sebum) and dead skin cells. Bacteria that normally live on the skin multiply in the blocked pore, and the skin becomes inflamed. It can appear as:
- Blackheads and whiteheads
- Red bumps (papules)
- Pus-filled spots (pustules)
- Deeper, painful lumps (nodules and cysts)
It most often affects the face, chest, back and neck, where oil glands are largest.
What causes it?
- Hormones, which is why acne often flares around periods, pregnancy or stress
- Genetics
- Products: heavy creams, some make-up and hair oils can block pores
- Picking and friction, which prolong inflammation
- Some medicines
Acne in melanin-rich skin
In brown and Black skin, the inflammation from a spot often leaves a dark mark behind (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation). These marks can last longer than the spots themselves, and for many people they're the most upsetting part. Treating acne well in melanin-rich skin means calming inflammation and protecting from the sun, not just drying spots out.
What helps
- A gentle cleanser and a non-blocking moisturiser
- Pore-clearing and calming ingredients such as salicylic acid and niacinamide, introduced gradually
- Daily sunscreen to stop marks darkening
- Patience: most regimens need 8 to 12 weeks
When to see your GP
If your acne is severe, painful, scarring, or comes with irregular periods or excess hair growth, speak to your GP. If your concern needs something beyond skincare, we'll suggest you speak to your GP.
Read more about acne in melanin-rich skin.
This article is general information, not personal advice.