Acne: Causes, Treatments and When to see your Doctor

Acne is triggered by several factors, most of which involve the skin's oil production and the way hair follicles work. When your skin produces excess oil, or sebum, it can mix with dead skin cells and clog hair follicles. This creates an environment where bacteria thrive, which can lead to inflammation and breakouts.

Hormonal changes are a major contributor. During puberty, pregnancy, or even menstrual cycles, fluctuations in hormones like androgens can cause the sebaceous glands to go into overdrive, producing more oil. Stress is another big factor — it doesn’t directly cause acne, but it can increase oil production, making breakouts worse.

Diet may also play a role. Certain foods, particularly those high in sugar or dairy, have been linked to an increase in acne for some people. However, the connection is still debated and varies from person to person.

Medications like steroids or birth control pills can also influence acne. Some medications cause hormonal changes that increase oil production, leading to clogged pores.

Genetics also play a role — if your parents had acne, you’re more likely to experience it yourself. Your skin type, how your body processes hormones, and how your pores react to oil all come into play.

In the end, acne is caused by a combination of factors, and how each of these affects your skin can vary from person to person.

Acne is not contagious. You can’t catch it from someone else, no matter how much skin-to-skin contact you have. The condition happens when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Hormonal changes, diet, stress, or even certain medications can contribute to these blockages, triggering acne.

The bacteria involved in acne, Propionibacterium acnes, naturally live on the skin, but they don’t spread from person to person. Even if you touch someone with acne or share towels, you won't automatically develop acne.

However, what you touch does matter. If you touch your face with dirty hands or press your phone to your skin, the bacteria and oils from those surfaces can contribute to an outbreak. But again, the acne itself isn’t something you can “catch” in the way a cold or flu spreads.

In short, acne might look contagious because it can appear on visible areas like the face, but its causes are rooted in individual skin conditions, not infections.

There are a variety of products that can help to build a daily regimen to control acne, here are some options we would recommend.

Over-the-counter (OTC) Treatments for Acne

Over-the-counter (OTC) treatments for acne are often the first line of defense, and many can be surprisingly effective. These treatments typically contain ingredients that target the root causes of acne, like excess oil and clogged pores.

For more persistent spots or outbreaks of acne, antibacterial treatments can help to control symptoms. A topical product such as Acnecide Gel 5% which contains benzoyl peroxide is shown to be effective. The gel needs to be applied regularly for between 6 to 8 weeks on average to achieve optimum control of acne spots. This product kills bacteria, absorbs excess oil, and releases glycerine to hydrate the skin.

Salicylic acid is another go-to ingredient. It helps exfoliate the skin, unclogging pores and preventing new breakouts. It’s gentler than benzoyl peroxide, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin, and it’s often found in cleansers, toners, and spot treatments.

Topical retinoids, like adapalene, are another popular choice. They work by speeding up cell turnover, preventing clogged pores and reducing inflammation. While they can take time to show results, they’re a solid option for preventing long-term breakouts and reducing the appearance of scars.

Sulfur is less common but still effective for some people. It dries out pimples and helps absorb excess oil. Often found in masks or spot treatments, it’s great for treating active breakouts.

Lastly, for those with more sensitive skin, a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturiser is crucial. Acne treatments can dry out the skin, so keeping your skin hydrated while controlling oil is key to managing acne without causing irritation.

While OTC treatments are a good starting point, they may take time. If results aren’t showing up after a few weeks, or if your acne is more severe, it’s a good idea to talk to a dermatologist for stronger options.

Daily skin cleansers that can help to unclog pores, helping to minimise sweat build-up and reduce outbreaks.

There are products that contain medicated cleaning pads that can reduce the appearance of spots or help clear the spots more quickly. Clearasil pads are a good example of this type of product. It contains salicylic acid amongst other ingredients to bring down inflammation and reduce spots.

You can book an appointment now if you want to speak to a doctor. As always,s you can always chat now HERE.

Products are available to buy over-the-counter, but if your acne is causing large inflamed cysts, leaving behind red scars or pocks and pits once healed, or is causing you psychological distress or low self-esteem, book a routine appointment with your doctor.

They will ask about your symptoms and any previous treatments, they will examine you, and they may prescribe a cream or gel and antibiotics, which have an anti-inflammatory effect on your acne. It can take up to 3 months to see any effect. If your acne is severe they may refer you to a skin specialist.

Women also have the option of being offered a hormonal option, as contraceptive pills can sometimes be used as an addition to treatment.

Am I fit for work?

You are fit for work if you have acne.