Acne Explained

Acne:  What’s Really Going On With Your Skin

It’s Acne Awareness Month, and I wanted to take the opportunity to explore this skin condition that’s as common as it is frustrating.  

So... Acne. Most of us have experienced it at some point, yet it remains widely misunderstood.

What actually causes it? Why can it be so persistent? And importantly, what really helps treat it?

Acne is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that leads to spots and breakouts. It most commonly appears on the face, back, and sometimes the upper arms.

It affects around 75% of 11–30 year olds (an enormous proportion of people!) which makes the amount of misinformation surrounding it all the more surprising.  So let’s start with the basics... 

Acne before and after treatments at Ritual Beauty Salon in Hampshire

What is actually happening in the skin?

Our skin contains thousands of tiny pores, each connected to oil-producing follicles. These follicles produce sebum = a natural oil that plays an essential role in keeping the skin hydrated, protected, and functioning healthily.

However, when sebum becomes trapped beneath the skin’s surface, it can lead to the formation of a spot.

Because we naturally have bacteria living on our skin, this trapped mixture of oil and dead skin cells can become inflamed or infected, resulting in the redness, swelling, and discomfort we associate with acne.

Why is acne so common during puberty?

During this time, levels of the hormone androgen increase, causing the oil glands within the skin to enlarge and produce more sebum.

With more oil being produced, the likelihood of it becoming trapped within the pores also increases.

To make things more complex, excess sebum can also weaken the walls of the pores, allowing bacteria to multiply more easily.

It becomes something of a perfect storm.  And beyond the physical symptoms, acne can have a significant emotional impact too, often affecting confidence, self-esteem, and overall mental wellbeing.

Throughout this month, I’ll be sharing more insights, breaking down common acne myths, and exploring the most effective ways to manage and treat this condition.

Just like our gorgeous client who achieved these results after just one treatment.  If you want to know how we were able to achieve these results in just one treatment call Alton on 01420 541 888 or Alresford on 01962 736 888.