Acne. Just the word itself can bring back memories of frustrating breakouts, awkward teenage years, or even the relentless struggle with adult acne. It’s a universal skin concern that affects people of all ages, skin types, and even areas beyond the face – think neck, back, shoulders, and décolletage. And let’s face it: dealing with acne can feel like an uphill battle. As our largest organ, the skin is constantly on display, and breakouts can significantly impact our confidence, mood, and self-esteem.
Whether you’re experiencing occasional flare-ups or chronic acne, the good news is that effective treatments are available. But with so many products, routines and in-clinic options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. To help you navigate this complex landscape, we’ve gathered expert advice from Elise Andrews, a highly trained dermal therapist and educator who sees and treats acne daily. Here are her top tips for tackling acne, both at home and with professional treatments.
- Skincare: Prevent and Treat Breakouts with the Right Ingredients
The right skincare routine can make a world of difference. Here are the star ingredients to look for:
- Niacinamide: This powerhouse ingredient helps regulate oil flow, reduces inflammation, and lightens post-inflammatory pigmentation (those stubborn dark spots left after a breakout).
- Salicylic Acid (BHA): Known for its ability to penetrate pores, salicylic acid dissolves dead skin cells and unclogs pores, easing inflammation and preventing future breakouts.
- Zinc: With its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, zinc is a valuable ally for calming active acne and reducing redness.
- Vitamin A (Retinol): Retinol promotes cellular turnover, reduces oil production, and improves the appearance of acne scars. Start with a low concentration and build up gradually to avoid irritation.
- AHAs (like glycolic and lactic acid): These alpha hydroxy acids exfoliate the skin’s surface, reducing pigmentation and preventing clogged pores. Chemical exfoliants like papaya and bromelain enzymes can also gently dissolve dead skin cells.
Pro Tip: Use cleansers containing glycolic or salicylic acid to help unclog pores. But be patient – skincare products take time to show results. Introduce new ingredients gradually to avoid overwhelming your skin and always opt for non-comedogenic products that won’t clog your pores and prevent further irritation.
- Hygiene: Small Changes, Big Impact
Good hygiene habits can prevent breakouts from worsening and reduce the spread of bacteria. Here’s how to keep your skin clean and healthy:
- Wash your face twice a day, morning and night and after exercise or any activity that causes sweating.
- Hands off! Avoid touching, picking, or popping pimples. Not only can this spread bacteria, but it can also lead to scarring.
- Avoid harsh scrubs. Acne-prone skin is sensitive, and abrasive exfoliants can worsen inflammation and cause micro-tears in the skin. Stick to gentle chemical exfoliants instead.
- Keep it clean: Wash pillowcases, face masks, hats, and headbands regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Sanitise high-touch items, like your phone, which can transfer bacteria to your face.
3. In-Clinic Treatments: Targeted Solutions for Stubborn Acne
While a good skincare routine is essential, sometimes professional treatments are needed to tackle persistent acne and scarring. Here are some of the most effective in-clinic options:
Carbon Facial (Hollywood Peel)
Also known as the “China Doll Facial,” this treatment uses a carbon cream and a Q-switched laser to deeply exfoliate the skin and eliminate acne-causing bacteria. The carbon absorbs oil and impurities, and when the laser targets the carbon, it shatters into particles, removing dead skin cells and contaminants in the process. The result? Deeply cleansed, refined pores and a smoother, more radiant complexion. This treatment also stimulates collagen production, helping to reduce acne scars and shrink pores. While you’ll see results after one session, a series of treatments spaced 1–2 weeks apart delivers the best results. Be warned – these treatments are addictive!
Microdermabrasion/Hydrodermabrasion
These treatments involve using a gentle vacuum to exfoliate the skin, remove dead cells, and unclog pores. Microdermabrasion machines buff away the top layer of skin, eliminating grime and excess oil. Hydrodermabrasion, which uses water-based exfoliation, is gentle enough for sensitive skin. These treatments are excellent for reducing congestion, blackheads and acne scars, improving skin texture, giving you an instant glow.
IPL Acne Management
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments use a series of wavelengths to target and destroy acne-causing bacteria deep within the skin. Treatments with IPL machines also reduce oil production by targeting the sebaceous glands, preventing future breakouts. This treatment is best for active, inflamed acne and can significantly reduce redness, inflammation and pore size. However, it won’t work on blackheads or congestion, so it’s essential to combine it with other treatments if needed.
LED Blue Light Therapy
LED therapy uses specific wavelengths to target bacteria and normalise oil production. Blue light is particularly effective for inflammatory acne and oily skin. Sessions with LED light therapy machines are quick and painless, with noticeable results after a few weeks. This treatment is non-invasive, with no downtime, and can be used on various areas, including the face, neck and shoulders.
- Diet, Supplements, and Lifestyle: Support Your Skin from Within
While diet alone won’t cure acne overnight, consistent lifestyle changes can support long-term skin health.
- Zinc and fish oil supplements can help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.
- Dietary tweaks: Consider eliminating potential triggers like dairy, sugar, and processed foods to see if your skin improves. Be methodical – remove one item at a time and observe the effects.
- Manage stress. High stress levels can exacerbate breakouts, so incorporate relaxation techniques into your routine.
- Exercise regularly to boost circulation and detoxify your skin.
The Takeaway
Acne treatment is personal and isn’t one-size fits all. What works for one person may not work for the next but it’s important to not lose hope and get discouraged. Elise Andrews advises a multi-pronged approach: “Acne is a multi-factorial condition, so addressing a number of factors is the best approach. Combining in-clinic treatments with skincare, diet and lifestyle factors will enable you to reach your skin goals quickly. Working with a professional to guide you through the process is a great way to develop a tailored treatment plan and avoid getting overwhelmed with information.”
Remember, clear skin is a journey. With patience, consistency, and the right combination of strategies, professional guidance, skincare and treatments – healthier skin is within reach, helping you regain your confidence to put your best face forward.