Understanding your skin is the first step to healing it.
If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and asked yourself, “Why am I still getting breakouts?”—you’re not alone. Acne is one of the most common skin concerns I treat in clinic, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood.
Let’s clear something up (pun intended): acne is not just a teenage problem. In fact, adult acne—especially in women over 25—is becoming increasingly common, and the root causes can be very different from the ones you faced in your teenage years.
What Is Acne, Really?
At its core, acne is an inflammatory skin condition. It begins when pores become blocked with a combination of excess sebum (oil), dead skin cells, and often bacteria. This congestion can lead to various forms of acne—from small whiteheads and blackheads to inflamed red pimples, deep cysts, and painful under-the-skin nodules.
But here’s the key: the type of acne you have—and what’s causing it—is unique to you. That’s why generic, one-size-fits-all products and trending TikTok remedies often miss the mark.
What Causes Acne?
There’s rarely a single cause. Acne is multifactorial, and some of the most common contributors I see in clinic include:
• Hormonal fluctuations (particularly around your menstrual cycle or in conditions like PCOS)
• Stress, which increases cortisol and ramps up oil production
• Gut health imbalances, poor digestion, and inflammation from within
• Incorrect skincare products—too harsh, too rich, or simply not suited for your skin type
• Dietary triggers, especially refined sugar and dairy in some individuals
• A compromised skin barrier, which keeps the skin in a reactive, inflamed state
The important thing to understand? Acne is a symptom. Long-term results come from treating the cause, not just the surface.
Why Over-the-Counter Fixes Don’t Always Work
Most off-the-shelf acne products are designed to do one thing: dry out oil or kill bacteria. While this can sometimes provide temporary relief, it often comes at a price—a damaged skin barrier.
If your skin feels tight, flaky, or stings after using your skincare, chances are your barrier is compromised. And once that barrier is weakened, inflammation worsens, breakouts continue, and the cycle repeats.
In clinic, I often work with clients who feel like they’ve “tried everything.” But once we calm their skin, nourish the barrier, and address what’s happening beneath the surface, we finally start seeing meaningful change.
What You Can Do Right Now
While your skin is unique and deserves a tailored plan, here are some universal tips that can help you take the first step:
1.Simplify your skincare – A gentle cleanser, a balancing serum, and a non-comedogenic moisturiser are the perfect foundation.
2.Avoid harsh scrubs and alcohol-based toners – These damage your skin barrier and prolong healing.
3.Don’t skip hydration – Even oily or acne-prone skin needs water. In fact, dehydration can cause more oil production.
4.Get expert guidance – That’s where I come in.
How We Treat Acne in Clinic
Our approach to acne is holistic, personalised, and barrier-focused. Here’s what that looks like:
• We identify your unique root triggers.
• We design a treatment plan tailored to your skin’s needs and your lifestyle.
• We support the skin barrier, calm inflammation, and balance oil production.
• We incorporate advanced in-clinic treatments such as:
• LED light therapy.
• Byonik Pulse laser.
• Barrier-repair protocols.
• We recommend targeted homecare products that work with your skin—not against it.
Our goal isn’t just to achieve “clear skin”—it’s to build calm, healthy, resilient skin that stays clear for the long term.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Whether you’re experiencing the occasional hormonal breakout or dealing with persistent, cystic acne, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Book a skin consultation with me today, and let’s start your journey toward healthy, confident skin—backed by education, support, and proven strategies.