Acne is not caused by dirty skin, and it is not something you must simply “wait out.”
It is a medical condition involving the skin’s oil glands and hair follicles. With the right diagnosis and consistent treatment, most cases can be effectively controlled.
The goal is to begin treatment early—before acne leaves persistent dark marks or permanent scars.
What Causes Acne?
Acne develops when four main factors work together:
- Excess oil production
- Blocked pores
- Acne-associated bacteria
- Inflammation
Several additional factors may trigger or worsen acne, including:
- Hormonal changes
- Genetics
- Stress
- Certain medicines
- Heavy or pore-clogging cosmetics
- High-glycaemic or sugary foods in some individuals
- Whey protein supplements
- Hormonal conditions such as PCOS
Acne Dos
*1. Wash Your Face Twice a Day*
- Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser in the morning and at night.
- A salicylic acid cleanser may help people with oily or acne-prone skin, but excessive cleansing can cause irritation and worsen the skin barrier.
*2. Moisturise Your Skin*
- Oily and acne-prone skin still requires moisturiser.
- Choose a lightweight, gel-based and non-comedogenic moisturiser that hydrates the skin without clogging the pores.
*3. Apply Sunscreen Every Day*
- Sun exposure can make post-acne marks darker and more persistent.
- Use a broad-spectrum, non-comedogenic sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every morning.
*4. Give Your Treatment Time to Work*
- Most acne treatments require approximately six to eight weeks of consistent use before noticeable improvement appears.
- Avoid changing products every few days, as this can irritate the skin and make it difficult to identify what is working.
*5. Maintain Basic Hygiene*
- Change your pillow covers approximately twice a week and clean your mobile phone screen regularly.
- These steps will not cure acne, but they can help reduce the accumulation of oil, dirt and product residue.
*6. Choose Non-Comedogenic Products*
- Check skincare, makeup and haircare labels for terms such as:
- Non-comedogenic
- Oil-free
- Suitable for acne-prone skin
- Hair oils, styling products and heavy conditioners can sometimes contribute to breakouts around the forehead and hairline.
Acne Don’ts
*1. Don’t Pop or Squeeze Pimples*
- Squeezing a pimple increases inflammation and may push its contents deeper into the skin.
- This significantly increases the risk of prolonged dark marks and permanent acne scars.
*2. Don’t Apply DIY Remedies*
- Avoid applying toothpaste, lemon, garlic, baking soda or other harsh household ingredients to acne.
- These substances can irritate or burn the skin, damage the protective barrier and leave pigmentation behind.
*3. Don’t Scrub Your Skin Aggressively*
- Acne is not caused by surface dirt. Hard scrubbing will not clean the acne away.
- Physical scrubs and rough cleansing brushes can worsen inflammation and damage active pimples.
*4. Don’t Use Steroid or Mixed Fairness Creams*
- Steroid-containing creams and unlabelled combination creams can temporarily reduce redness while worsening the underlying problem.
- Long-term misuse may cause steroid-induced acne, skin thinning, visible blood vessels, sensitivity and persistent skin damage.
*5. Don’t Apply Heavy Oils Near the Face*
- Heavy oils used on the face, scalp or hairline may block pores and trigger forehead or temple acne in susceptible individuals.
*6. Don’t Stop Treatment as Soon as Acne Settles*
- Acne can return when treatment is stopped too early.
- Your dermatologist may recommend maintenance treatment to keep pores clear and reduce future breakouts.
Understanding Acne Marks and Scars
Flat brown, red or dark spots that remain after a pimple heals are usually post-acne marks rather than true scars.
These marks may gradually improve with:
- Consistent sunscreen use
- Appropriate prescription creams
- Gentle chemical exfoliation
- Dermatologist-guided procedures when required
Pitted, raised or uneven scars involve structural changes in the skin. Depending on their type and depth, treatment may include:
- Chemical peels
- Microneedling
- Subcision
- Laser procedures
- Combination treatments
Preventing scars by treating active acne early is usually easier than treating established scars later.
When Should You See a Dermatologist?
Book a dermatology consultation if:
- You have painful lumps, nodules or cysts
- Your acne is leaving dark marks or scars
- Acne begins or persists after the age of 25
- Breakouts occur with irregular periods or increased facial hair
- Over-the-counter products have not helped after approximately two months
- Acne is affecting your confidence or emotional well-being
- You are unsure which products are suitable for your skin
Clearer Skin Is Possible
Acne treatment is not about using more products—it is about identifying the cause and following the right treatment consistently.
Book an acne consultation at DermaWithMe Clinic and receive a personalised treatment plan designed for your skin.
Product information is for general education and is not a substitute for advice from a qualified healthcare professional.