SKIN DECODED - ACNE

Let’s Talk Acne: It’s Not Just for Teenagers

Acne is one of the most common skin concerns—and it’s not just a teenage thing. While it often makes its debut in the teen years, many people continue to experience acne well into adulthood. Yes, even into their 30s, 40s, and beyond. Let’s break it down.

What’s Really Going On Beneath the Surface?

To understand acne, we need to take a peek under the skin—figuratively speaking. There are four main players behind breakouts:

1. Excess Sebum Production
   Sebum is the natural oil our skin produces to stay hydrated and protect the barrier. But when the skin produces too much (often due to hormones), things can go sideways fast—think shiny skin and clogged pores.

2. Clogged Hair Follicles
   Sometimes the cells lining the hair follicles become sticky and thick—what’s called abnormal keratinization. This leads to build-up and blockages, aka blackheads and whiteheads.

3. Acne-Causing Bacteria
   Here comes the villain: Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes). Don’t let the name fool you—there’s nothing cute about it. This bacteria feeds on sebum and contributes to the inflammation that follows.

4. Inflammation
   Your body’s immune system can go into overdrive, reacting to clogged follicles and bacteria by creating red, swollen, and often painful lesions. Inflammation is a major component of more severe types of acne.

You’ll most often find acne showing up where there are more oil glands—face, chest, and back—not so much on your legs. That’s not by accident; it’s science.

Inflammatory vs. Non-Inflammatory Acne

We categorize acne into two broad types:

• Inflammatory Acne: Think red, swollen, painful lesions like cysts, nodules, and pustules. These are your “angry breakouts”—the kind that make you want to cancel plans.

• Non-Inflammatory Acne: These are your blackheads and whiteheads. They’re not tender or swollen, just clogged pores hanging out and overstaying their welcome.

Contrary to popular belief, blackheads aren’t dirt trapped in your skin—they’re actually made up of keratin (a natural protein) and sebum. When this mixture hits the air, it oxidizes and turns dark. So no, washing your face more won’t “scrub them away.”

Home Care for Acne: What Actually Works

Let’s clear this up (pun intended): acne is not caused by being dirty. Over-washing or aggressive scrubbing can make things worse.

That said, many mild-to-moderate breakouts can be treated effectively at home with the right tools:

• Salicylic Acid
  This beta-hydroxy acid is a pore-clearing champ. It dives deep into follicles, dissolves blockages, and even reduces inflammation. Think of it as a gentle but effective mini plumber for your pores.

• Retinoids
  These vitamin A derivatives are game changers. A gentle retinol (like 0.3%) or over-the-counter adapalene helps regulate cell turnover and prevent clogged pores. Start slow, use sparingly, and always pair with SPF.

• Benzoyl Peroxide
  This powerhouse ingredient helps kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation. For most skin types, a lower concentration (2.5% to 5%) is just as effective as higher strengths—without as much risk of irritation. Use it as a spot treatment or in a cleanser, but avoid layering it with retinoids to prevent excessive dryness or peeling.

• Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin
  Even oily or acne-prone skin needs proper hydration—skipping moisturizer can actually trigger more oil production. While it’s helpful to look for products labeled “non-comedogenic” (meaning they’re less likely to clog pores), keep in mind that this term isn’t strictly regulated. Instead of relying solely on the label, look for lightweight, oil-free formulas with a short ingredient list, and patch-test when possible. Your skin will tell you what works.

And please—step away from the mirror! Popping pimples at home can push bacteria deeper, worsening inflammation and increasing your risk of scarring. Let a professional handle extractions safely.

What About Acne Scarring?

When breakouts go deep and inflammation sticks around, it can damage collagen and leave behind scars—those frustrating little divots or textural changes that don’t always fade on their own.

The good news? You don’t need to jump straight to intensive treatments. In my studio, we take a regenerative approach using professional-grade peels and LED light therapy to support skin renewal, smooth texture, and stimulate collagen production gently over time.

For more advanced cases, there are also options like microneedling or laser therapy—but many clients see great results without going that route. The key is starting with the right plan for your skin and treating scarring as a long game rooted in consistency, care, and strategy.

Advanced Acne Treatments

When over-the-counter products just aren’t cutting it, professional treatments can deliver more targeted and dramatic results. In my studio, we focus on effective, non-invasive therapies designed to calm inflammation, clear breakouts, and support skin healing:

• Chemical Peels
  These use concentrated exfoliating acids to speed up cell turnover, unclog pores, and improve skin texture over time.

• High-Frequency Therapy
  A tried-and-true method that uses thermal energy to oxygenate the skin and kill acne-causing bacteria—especially helpful for stubborn or inflamed breakouts.

• LED Blue Light Therapy
  This gentle, non-invasive treatment kills acne-causing bacteria, reduces inflammation, improves overall clarity, and helps prevent future breakouts. It’s one of the most skin-friendly options available, with no downtime.

For deeper, more resistant cases of acne—especially when scarring becomes a concern—dermatologists can offer medical-grade solutions tailored to your skin’s needs, including prescription-based therapies that address inflammation, hormonal imbalances, or chronic cystic acne.

Early intervention is key. Not only can it help reduce long-term scarring, but it can also lift a huge emotional weight for those struggling with confidence due to persistent acne.

Bottom line: Acne is common, complex, and treatable. Don’t be discouraged—and don’t go it alone. Whether you’re dealing with the occasional breakout or persistent cysts, there’s a path to clearer skin.

Final Thoughts

Healthy skin isn’t just about beauty—it’s a reflection of your overall wellbeing. The skin protects, communicates, regulates, and senses. When we treat it with intention and balance—not extremes—it rewards us with radiance.

Stay curious. Stay consistent. And don’t forget: healthy skin starts here.

Want to learn more about how we can refine and support your skin’s natural glow? Book a consult and let’s create a plan that works with your skin—not against it.

Skin Fit Rox: Personalized Skincare Excellence

At Skin Fit Rox, we specialize in creating personalized skincare plans tailored to your needs. Combining European excellence with modern science, we offer:

• Cruelty-Free Formulas: Professional and Pharmaceutical-grade products with pure botanicals, vitamins, antioxidants, and nature-derived extracts.

• A Step-Up Approach: Gradually introducing active ingredients to protect all skin types and tones.

• Age Management Expertise: Guiding you through graceful aging or reversing some of the effects.

• Acne Management Expertise: Proactively interrupting the acne process to manage this cyclical condition.

• A Support System: Whether it’s consultations, in-person/virtual facials, or text support, we’re here for you.