Excess sebum production
Overactive oil glands contribute to clogged pores and provide an environment where acne can develop.
Acne & Inflammation
Acne may involve clogged pores, inflamed spots, deeper tender lesions and marks left after breakouts.
What This Concern Looks Like
The images show inflammatory cheek acne and forehead congestion. Acne can also include blackheads, whiteheads, pustules, deeper nodules and post-acne marks.
AI-generated illustrative images showing two common presentations. They are not photographs of M+ patients and are not intended for self-diagnosis.
Inflammatory acne may include red, tender spots at different stages.
Comedonal acne can appear as skin-coloured bumps, whiteheads or blackheads.
Other Common Presentations
- Blackheads, whiteheads or small skin-coloured bumps.
- Red papules or pustules that may feel tender.
- Deeper nodules or cyst-like lesions that can be painful.
- Oiliness, congestion or a combination of oily and irritated areas.
- Red or brown marks remaining after a breakout.
- Textural change or scarring following repeated inflammation.
Why It Happens
Acne is a multi-factor condition involving oil production, pore blockage, inflammation and sometimes hormonal influence.
Dead skin cells and oil blocking pores
Dead skin cells blocking pores
When surface renewal slows or when products are not suited to the skin, pores can become blocked, trapping oil and bacteria.
Inflammatory response
Blocked pores trigger inflammation which can lead to red, painful bumps or deeper nodules.
Hormonal fluctuations
Hormones can increase oil production and make the skin more reactive, contributing to recurring breakouts.
Lifestyle and environmental triggers
Stress, sleep quality, humidity, sweating, diet and heavy product use can all influence breakouts.
Why People May Seek Advice
Acne is common, but persistent inflammation can be uncomfortable and may leave lasting pigment change or scars.
Pain and irritation
Inflamed or deeper lesions can be tender and affect day-to-day comfort.
Post-acne marks
Redness or increased pigmentation may remain after the active spot settles.
Scarring risk
Deeper inflammation and picking increase the chance of permanent textural change.
Personal impact
Some people find acne affects wellbeing or confidence; support should remain non-judgmental and individual.
Common Patterns and Contributing Factors
Acne can affect teenagers and adults of any gender. It is not a sign of poor hygiene, and usually reflects several interacting factors.
Hormonal stages
Puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy and other hormonal changes can influence oil production and inflammation.
Product or friction-related congestion
Occlusive products, helmets, masks and repeated friction can contribute in some people.
Family tendency
Genetics can influence acne severity, oil production and the likelihood of scarring.
Medicines and health factors
Some medicines or underlying conditions may contribute and should be assessed by an appropriate clinician.
Home Care
A consistent, gentle routine can support the skin barrier, but moderate, severe or scarring acne often needs professional assessment.
- Cleanse gently twice daily and after heavy sweating; scrubbing harder does not clear acne faster.
- Choose non-comedogenic skincare, sunscreen and makeup where possible.
- Avoid picking or squeezing spots to reduce inflammation and scarring risk.
- Introduce active acne products gradually and seek advice if irritation develops.
- See a GP or dermatologist for painful nodules, scarring, sudden severe acne or acne affecting your wellbeing.
When Medical Assessment May Be Important
Seek medical advice rather than relying on cosmetic care alone if acne is painful, rapidly worsening, causing scars, associated with other new symptoms or significantly affecting your wellbeing.
How We Assess and Help
We assess acne type, severity, skin-barrier condition, current products and relevant triggers before suggesting supportive skin treatments or referral.
Identify the acne pattern
Comedonal, inflammatory and scarring concerns require different priorities.
Protect the skin barrier
Over-cleansing and aggressive exfoliation can worsen irritation, so treatment intensity is adjusted carefully.
Treat active acne before scarring
Procedures aimed at texture are generally considered only after active inflammation is appropriately controlled.
Refer when appropriate
Medical assessment may be recommended for severe, persistent, painful or scarring acne.
Skin Consultation
An assessment of acne pattern, current routine and appropriate next steps.
Healite II LED Treatment
A light-based supportive option that may be considered for selected inflammatory concerns.
Dermaviduals Skin Treatments
Customised skin treatments that can support barrier care and congestion management.
Lhala Peel & Fill
A resurfacing option considered only when suitable for the current skin condition.
Assessment, Safety and Next Steps
A consultation is used to understand your concern, relevant history and goals before any options are discussed. An appointment does not commit you to treatment.
- We assess the visible pattern, skin or tissue condition and factors that may affect suitability.
- Suitable options, alternatives, limitations, likely downtime and relevant risks are discussed before you decide.
- Recommendations are individualised; results and the number of sessions required vary between people.
- If the concern may need medical investigation or sits outside our scope, we may recommend another healthcare professional.
What to Expect at Consultation
1. Understand your concern
We discuss what you have noticed, your goals, relevant history, current products or treatments, and any symptoms or triggers.
2. Clinical assessment
Your clinician assesses the visible pattern and relevant skin, tissue or structural factors that may influence suitability.
3. Discuss suitable options
Where appropriate, we explain possible options, alternatives, limitations, relevant risks, likely downtime and costs without pressure to proceed.
4. Plan and follow-up
Treatment is planned only if it is suitable and you wish to proceed. We explain preparation, aftercare and review timing when relevant.
Ready to understand your skin concerns more clearly?
Book a consultation to explore suitable pathways with our clinical team.
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