All You Need to Know

• What is acne?

  Acne is a skin condition which affects the hair follicles and oil glands in your skin. It causes a blockage in the skin pore, but this has nothing to do with dirt or grime. It's actually due to a growth change in the skin cells, which can occur when you are a teenager because your hormone levels rise. 

  The big takeaway about acne is that suffering from it is not your fault, or because of anything you've done. It's nothing to do with cleanliness, or about your lifestyle, so you shouldn't feel like you are doing anything wrong. 

  Acne is a common condition and there are lots of over-the-counter treatments in the Pharmacy, or stronger treatments that can be offered by your GP, so if you are worried then book an appointment. 

  Find out more about acne and young people who suffer from it here

• What are the causes of acne?

  Acne is linked to changes in your hormone levels as you go through puberty. Certain hormones increase the oil producing glands which can lead to greasy skin and blocked pores which cause spots.

  There is no evidence that diet, poor hygiene or sexual activity play a role in acne. Plus it is actually very common in teenagers and young adults with about 95% of young people aged 11-30 affected to some extent. 

  There are some possible triggers which can make acne worse in some people, including:

  • Family links - Acne is known to run in families, so if both your mother and father had acne, it's more likely you could experience it. 
  • Hormonal changes - For girls and young women the hormones that affect their period can lead to episodes of acne and flare up at different times during their monthly cycle. 
  • Cosmetic products - Some make-up can block pores and lead to spots. It's less common now as more companies produce non-comedogenic products (make-up designed not to block your pores).
  • Smoking - When you smoke it can affect your immune system. So if you are run down it can make you more likely to break out.

  Find out more about causes of acne

• How can I stop having greasy skin?

  Oily skin can be caused by excess sebum (oil) that causes skin to appear shiny and feel greasy. If your skin produces more oil you may be more likely to suffer from clogged pores, acne and have breakouts. 

  For young people with oily skin, the best advice is:

  • To have a regular cleaning routine - This means taking off make-up at night with a mild cleanser, because while makeup can't cause spots alone, if it's left on it can block pores.  
  • Don't over wash - Avoid washing your face more than twice a day because frequent washing can irritate the skin and make your symptoms worse. 
  • Avoid oil-based skincare products - Use water-based non-comedogenic products which are less likely to block pores and cause more oil to be released.
  • Shower after sport - Sweat from physical exercise can irritate your skin, so washing as soon as possible after you've finished can ease this. 
  • To have a healthy diet - There is no evidence that chocolate or junk food can cause excess oil or spots, however, it's important to eat a balanced diet and drink water to maintain your general health and to support your immune system.

  Find tips about healthy eating here

• What's the best way to keep my skin clean?

  Having a regular basic skin care routine is essential to help you protect your skin in all weather. You don't need to have lots of fancy products or spend lots of money.  Here's what we would recommend for your daily routine:
  
  Cleanse: Gentle skincare can prevent skin problems, so washing your face with a mild fragrance-free cleanser will help you feel fresh without stripping your skin of moisture. 

  Moisturise: After washing your face, pat it dry and apply a moisturiser that's suited to your skin. 

  • Acne-prone or oily skin - Gel-based moisturiser
  • Normal or combination skin - lighter lotion
  • Dry to very dry skin - Greasier formulation moisturiser

  Makeup Advice: If using makeup avoid oil-based products and opt for non-comedogenic options which should be listed in the description or ingredients list. This means that it's been designed to not block your pores. 

  Avoid touching/picking your skin: Try not to pick your spots or touch your skin with dirty hands to avoid spreading bacteria and risk any scarring.

  Wear Sunscreen with SPF 30: Protecting your skin from the sun's UV rays when you are outside is important all year round. Even in grey weather, sunlight can still age and damage your skin cells. So finding products with an SPF of at least 30 will help to keep your skin healthy for longer. 

• I keep hearing acne myths, what's the truth?

  Let's dispel some of the most common myths that young people might suggest about acne and the people who suffer from it:
  
  'Acne is caused by having dirty skin and not washing' 

  Wrong. Most of the physical reasons for how acne is triggered happen deep underneath the skin and not on the surface. The cleanliness of your skin has no effect on acne. 

  'Squeezing blackheads, whiteheads and spots helps get rid of acne'

  Nope. Squeezing your spots regardless of their size could actually make acne worse and lead to scarring. It's best to leave your spots as they are, although we know it can be tempting. 

  'Sunbathing and sunbeds can help improve the look of acne.'

  Absolutely not. There is no evidence that exposure to sunlight or sunbeds can improve acne. In fact, many acne treatments can lead to your skin being more sensitive to light, so it's best for your skin to stay away from the sun and sunbeds. 

  'Acne is infectious'

  No, you can't pass acne on to other people. 

  'Toothpaste is a cure for acne'

  We're afraid not. While many forums online might claim that toothpaste can dry up spots, it's not recommended. Toothpaste contains textured substances which can irritate and damage your skin, plus it looks pretty silly. 

  Find the acne myth busting quiz here

• When should I see a doctor about my skin?

  If you just have a few blackheads, whiteheads and spots a pharmacist should be able to advise you on how to treat them successfully with over-the-counter gels or creams. 

  However, if you believe your acne is more widespread, with pustules, cysts or becoming painful and medicines from the pharmacy haven't worked, then you may need prescription medication which should be prescribed by your GP. 

  If you have severe acne, which isn't being helped by prescription medications through your GP, you may be referred to a special skin doctor called a dermatologist. They are experts in treating skin conditions and will be able to advise you on stronger medications. 

  If your skin is getting you down and making you feel low, it's worth getting some support. This could be through talking to a trusted adult or friend, or perhaps a professional you don't know, like a Childline or Kooth counsellor. They'll be able to remind you that there are lots of treatments out there and it won't last forever.

  Find out more about treatment for acne