Acne
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting people of all ages — from teenagers to adults well into their 30s and 40s. It occurs when hair follicles become blocked with excess oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria, leading to breakouts that can appear on the face, neck, chest, shoulders, and back.
While acne is often associated with adolescence, adult acne is increasingly common and can be triggered or worsened by hormones, stress, lifestyle, and skincare habits.
Common types of acne
Blackheads — small, open bumps caused by clogged pores that oxidise and darken on the surface.
Whiteheads — closed, clogged pores that appear as small white or flesh-coloured bumps.
Papules — small, red, inflamed bumps without a visible head.
Pustules — inflamed bumps containing pus, commonly known as pimples.
Nodules and cysts — larger, deeper, and often more painful breakouts that sit beneath the skin's surface and can lead to scarring if left untreated.
What causes acne?
Acne can be caused by a combination of factors, including:
Excess oil (sebum) production
Build-up of dead skin cells blocking pores
Bacteria (particularly Cutibacterium acnes)
Hormonal fluctuations (puberty, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, PCOS)
Genetics and family history
Stress
Certain medications
Skincare or makeup products that clog pores
Diet and lifestyle factors, in some individuals
Because acne is rarely caused by just one thing, effective treatment usually looks at the bigger picture rather than a single quick fix.
Why professional care matters
Over-the-counter products can help with mild breakouts, but persistent, painful, or scarring acne often benefits from a tailored approach. Picking or over-treating acne at home can also lead to irritation, pigmentation, and scarring.
A proper skin consultation can help identify:
The type and severity of your acne
Underlying triggers specific to your skin
The most effective treatments and products for your skin type
A realistic timeline for improvement
How Skin & Clay can help
At Skin & Clay, we take a personalised approach to acne-prone skin. Every treatment plan starts with a thorough consultation so we can understand your skin's unique needs, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all solution. Our nurturing treatments are designed to help calm inflammation, support the skin's natural balance, and work toward clearer, healthier skin over time.
If you're struggling with acne and looking for guidance, we'd love to help you build a care plan that's right for you.
Book a skin consultation with our team today.
This information is general in nature and is not a substitute for personalised medical or dermatological advice. If you have severe, persistent, or painful acne, we recommend also consulting your GP or a dermatologist.
Recommended Treatments
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IPL Acne
IPL emits specific wavelengths of light that are absorbed by acne-causing bacteria, effectively killing them and reducing breakouts.
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LED Light Therapy
Blue light LED Light is believed to destroy Cutibacterium acnes (formerly known as Propionibacterium acnes), a bacteria that plays a significant role in acne development.
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Clinical Skin Peel
Salicylic peels have an anti-inflammatory property that helps temporarily reduce oil secretions while also loosening dirt from the pores to help reduce acne. As a side benefit, salicylic peels also help reduce the appearance of large pores for an improved complexion.
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DMK Enzyme Therapy
DMK Enzyme therapy is a treatment primarily known for its ability to detoxify and rejuvenate the skin. It is beneficial for various skin conditions including: Anti-Aging, Skin Tightening, Rehydration…