What Causes Acne?
Acne develops due to a combination of factors that affect the skin’s oil production, cell turnover, and bacterial balance:
- Excess Sebum (Oil) Production
- The skin naturally produces oil to keep it hydrated, but excess oil can clog pores.
- Overproduction is often triggered by hormones, genetics, or stress.
- Clogged Pores (Dead Skin Cell Buildup)
- Normally, dead skin cells shed naturally, but in acne-prone skin, they mix with excess oil and block hair follicles.
- This leads to blackheads, whiteheads, and deeper blemishes.
- Bacteria Overgrowth (Propionibacterium Acnes – P. Acnes)
- When pores become blocked, bacteria thrive, leading to inflammation and breakouts.
- This bacterial activity causes pus-filled pimples, cysts, and nodules.
- Hormonal Imbalances
- Fluctuations in hormones (such as during puberty, pregnancy, or menstruation) can increase oil production.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and other hormonal disorders can also contribute to acne.
- Inflammation & Immune Response
- Inflammatory acne occurs when the body reacts to bacteria and clogged pores, leading to red, swollen pimples.
- Chronic inflammation can result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) or scarring.
Types of Acne
Acne can manifest in different forms, each requiring a tailored treatment approach:
- Comedonal Acne (Blackheads & Whiteheads)
- Blackheads: Open pores filled with oxidised sebum (appear dark).
- Whiteheads: Closed, clogged pores that appear as small, flesh-coloured bumps.
- Inflammatory Acne (Papules & Pustules)
- Papules: Red, inflamed bumps without pus.
- Pustules: Red bumps with a white or yellow pus-filled centre.
- Severe Acne (Nodules & Cysts)
- Nodular Acne: Large, painful lumps deep under the skin.
- Cystic Acne: Deep, pus-filled bumps that can lead to scarring.
How to Treat Acne: Professional Solutions
At The Karma Clinic, we offer a range of cutting-edge acne treatments to help clear breakouts, prevent future flare-ups, and reduce scarring.
How does skincare help treat acne?
- Regulates oil production and unclogs pores.
- Contains active ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, and niacinamide.
- Targets inflammation and prevents bacterial overgrowth.
- Strengthens the skin’s barrier to reduce irritation and breakouts.
How does microneedling help post-acne scarring?
- Triggers collagen production to remodel acne scars and smooth skin texture.
- Reduces post-inflammatory pigmentation and redness.
- Improves the appearance of rolling, boxcar, and ice-pick scars.
- Creates controlled micro-injuries that stimulate skin healing and renewal.
- Chemical Skin Peels (AlumierMD & Advanced Peels)
How do chemical peels improve acne?
- Exfoliate dead skin cells to unclog pores and reduce oil buildup.
- Contain acids like salicylic, glycolic, and lactic acid to dissolve blockages.
- Target acne bacteria and reduce inflammation.
- Brighten post-acne dark spots and even out skin tone.
How does IPL help acne?
- Reduces acne-causing bacteria and controls oil production.
- Targets redness and pigmentation left from acne.
- Stimulates collagen renewal to fade acne scars.
- Helps calm inflammatory acne and rosacea-prone skin.
How does LED therapy improve acne?
- Blue Light: Destroys acne-causing bacteria and reduces active breakouts.
- Red Light: Reduces inflammation and accelerates skin healing.
- Near-Infrared Light: Improves blood circulation and promotes skin renewal.
Preventing Acne Breakouts: Lifestyle & Skincare Tips
- Establish a Consistent Skincare Routine
- Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove oil and dirt.
- Apply acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and retinol to keep pores clear.
- Avoid Over-Washing & Harsh Scrubs
- Over-cleansing can strip the skin of natural oils, causing more oil production and breakouts.
- Avoid abrasive scrubs that may irritate and inflame the skin.
- Stay Hydrated & Follow a Balanced Diet
- Drink plenty of water to flush out toxins.
- Limit high-glycemic foods (sugar, dairy, processed foods) that can trigger breakouts.
- Minimise Touching Your Face
- Bacteria from hands can transfer to your skin, worsening acne.
- Clean your phone, pillowcases, and makeup brushes
- Use Sunscreen Daily
- Acne scars and pigmentation can worsen with UV exposure.
- Opt for oil-free, non-comedogenic SPF to protect against sun damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Adult acne can be triggered by hormonal fluctuations, stress, diet, or the use of pore-clogging products. A thorough skin analysis can help determine your specific triggers.
Yes. Treatments such as chemical peels, microneedling, and LED light therapy can target inflammation, bacteria, and improve overall skin texture.
You may start seeing improvements in 4–6 weeks, but optimal results typically require a course of treatments combined with home skincare.
Struggling with persistent acne or scarring At The Karma Clinic?
We offer advanced, tailored treatments to help you achieve clear, radiant skin.
Contact us today to book your consultation and receive a personalised treatment plan.
