All The Things You Might Not Have Known About Acne

It’s the last week of June, meaning we’re nearing the end of Acne Awareness Month.

Spreading awareness of this common skin condition is vital to help people deal with, not only the physical effects of acne, but also the mental impact it can cause.

Acne affects 8 in 10 people between the ages of 11 and 30. Around 1 in 20 women and 1 in 100 men over the age of 25 will also experience the condition.

Dr Tatiana Mandavia, aesthetic doctor from Doctors Tatiana+Rishi Advanced Aesthetics, tells us what acne is, the available treatment options and how to spread awareness to others.

What is acne?

“Acne is a common inflammatory skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria”, Dr Tatiana says.

“While most common in teenagers due to hormonal changes, acne can affect people of all ages”.

There are different types of acne, such as: cystic acne, nodular acne, hormonal acne, and fungal acne. The main different spots caused by acne are blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules and cysts.

You may find acne on your face, back, shoulders and chest.

 

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What can cause acne?

Dr Tatiana explains that some products which include ingredients that retain moisture or clog pores and hair follicles can “worsen acne”.

“Lifestyle factors such as high-glycaemic diets, dairy consumption, stress, poor sleep, and smoking can also contribute to breakouts.”

She added, “even habits like touching the face frequently or not cleaning makeup brushes can lead to increased acne”.

What are the available treatment options?

Dr Tatiana says that treatments will vary depending on the “severity” of the condition.

Treatments can include “topical treatments (like retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or antibiotics), oral medications (such as antibiotics, hormonal therapy, or isotretinoin), chemical peels, and light or laser-based therapies”.

She added, “a tailored approach, often combining treatments, is usually the most effective in managing acne long-term”.

What is acne resistance?

“Acne resistance typically refers to bacterial resistance, where the bacteria causing acne (C. acnes) become less responsive to certain antibiotics over time.”

She explains, “this limits the effectiveness of long-term antibiotic treatments and is why they are often used in combination with other agents like benzoyl peroxide, which reduces resistance risk and enhances efficacy”.

What is a suitable treatment for all skin types?

A treatment option suitable for all skin types is AviClear, a drug-free laser treatment that recently landed in Ireland.

It is “specifically designed to target acne” and “works by selectively targeting and suppressing sebaceous glands, thereby reducing sebum production — one of the key contributors to acne”.

Patients usually notice a difference around 4-6 weeks following the start of their treatment and “optimal results typically visible 3 to 6 months after completing a full course of three sessions spaced one month apart”.

Dr Tatiana says that some clients do experience purging during the early stages of treatment, but reinforced that it “occurs in less than 10% of patients” and “subsides within a few weeks”.

Coming into summer, how should we manage acne-prone skin?

“In summer, managing acne-prone skin involves balancing sun protection with oil control.

“Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen daily, avoid heavy skincare or makeup products, and cleanse the skin twice a day to remove excess sweat and oil.”

She adds that it’s important to stay “hydrated” and avoid “prolonged sun exposure”. This can help to “reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups”.

“If you are someone who tans because you feel that the sun helps your acne, try LED light instead!”

How will acne awareness month help those with the condition?

“Acne Awareness Month plays a crucial role in reducing stigma, educating the public on the causes and treatments of acne, and empowering individuals to seek professional help.

“It also promotes access to newer, evidence-based therapies and encourages open conversations, helping those with acne feel supported and better informed about their options”.

Words by Nikita Hall