05/02/2026
Understanding the cycle of acne.
TRIGGER, BLOCK , BATTLE , HEALING
📌TRIGGER:
Androgen hormones are elevated during hormonal fluctuations. Puberty, menstruation, or stress, can cause sebaceous glands to enlarge and produce excessive sebum (oil).
📌BLOCK:
Excess oil combines with dead skin cells that haven’t properly shed, a process known as follicular hyperkeratinization. These cells can clog the hair follicle, forming a “plug” or comedone. This creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
📌BATTLE:
Cutibacterium acnes bacteria, which thrive in low-oxygen, oily environments, can multiply within clogged pores. The immune system’s response involves sending white blood cells to combat these bacteria, resulting in inflammation, redness, swelling, and pain characteristic of papules or pustules.
DO NOT PICK YOUR SKIN. Picking can also spread bacteria and acne-causing oil to other pores, leading to more breakouts. This can also damage the follicle wall more deeply, increasing inflammation and the likelihood of pitted scars.
📌HEALING:
After inflammation subsides, the skin begins to heal. Severe inflammation can sometimes lead to Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH), which appears as dark brown or purple spots, or Post-Inflammatory Erythema (PIE), presenting as red or pink marks.
Consistent daily use of SPF is essential. UV exposure can darken existing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, making it more challenging to fade.
If you’re currently experiencing a lot of breakouts with no improvement, it’s time to see a skincare professional 🫶🏾
Let’s make a change in your skin. Book a skin consultation!
