Acne Explained: From Breakouts to Skin Changes
This page breaks down what causes acne, where it appears, how severe it can get, and the lasting effects it may leave behind.
Types and Severity of Acne
Acne ranges from a few small spots on the face to more severe issues with solid painful lumps under the skin.
What causes acne?
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when oil and dead skin cells clog pores, which causes blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples.
Acne affects up to 85% of people between ages 12-24 and is ranked as one of the top 3 most prevalent skin conditions in the USA, UK, and France
Our skin has oil-producing glands (sebaceous glands).
These glands are affected by hormones called Androgens which increase during puberty can promote the production of oil (sebum).
Excess oil and dead skin cells can build up and clog hair follicles, forming blackheads and whiteheads.
Harmless bacteria that live on our skin thrive in this environment, allowing them to multiply and cause inflammation and infection. This leads to the formation of red or swollen spots filled with pus.
Genetics, stress levels, and other environmental factors can impact our skin’s ability to heal acne spots, as well as promote sebum production.
Where does acne appear?
Acne usually appears on the:
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Face
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Neck
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Upper Back
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Shoulders
But acne can also appear on other areas of the body.
Types and Severity of Acne
Acne ranges from a few small spots on the face to more severe issues with solid painful lumps under the skin.
Also known as open comedones; open clogged pores that are exposed to the air, looks like black dots
Papules or Pustules
Red, inflamed bumps (pimples) filled with pus (pustule) or not (papule)
Whiteheads
Also known as closed comedones: closed clogged pores, tiny bumps that look white or the color of the skin
Cystic or Nodular
Painful, deep pimples under the skin. These are more likely to cause scarring.
Here's an image to visualize the differences clearly
Long-Term Effects of Acne
Acne can leave scars or marks on the skin, especially if there are deeper bumps under the skin. It can also cause discolouration, which can be darker or lighter than your normal skin colour. On a psychological level, acne can have a significant impact on one's mental health including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, poor body image and social withdrawal.