Acne is an inflammatory skin condition that occurs when the sebaceous glands produce too much sebum and the hair follicles become clogged. This causes blackheads, bumps, and pimples — most often on the face, chest, and back. Acne is most common among young people going through puberty, but it can affect people of any age. The condition is not contagious and can be effectively kept under control with the right care.
What is acne?
Acne is most common among young people going through puberty, so it is a somewhat different condition from rosacea. It is usually an inflammatory skin condition resulting from the significant changes that take place in hormone levels. Acne can appear on the face, back, and chest, and can take many different forms.
Skin changes include:
- Blackheads
- Bumps or pimples
- Cysts
- Boils
As mentioned, acne is very common among young people. That said, the negative impact the condition can have on everyday life should not be underestimated. Therefore, it is important to treat acne, especially if it is causing significant distress.
Causes of acne
Acne develops due to excess sebum production, which creates an environment where many unwanted bacteria can thrive — especially follicle mites. That is why it is important to eliminate unwanted bacteria; for example, ZZ Cream is excellent.
Clinically, acne results from the interaction of four factors: excess sebum production by the sebaceous glands, blockage of the hair follicles (forming the comedone — the plug itself), growth of the bacterium Cutibacterium acnes in the sebum-rich environment, and a subsequent inflammatory response. Added to this are Demodex mites — follicle mites that thrive in sebum-rich follicles — which research from 2024 links to worsening acne in a significant proportion of patients.
The most common triggers are:
- Hormonal fluctuations — puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and stress increase testosterone and other androgens, which stimulate the sebaceous glands
- Hereditary factors — if both parents have had acne, the risk is significantly higher
- Certain medications — anabolic steroids, corticosteroids, lithium, and some birth control pills can worsen acne
- Occlusive products — heavy, greasy creams and oil-based makeup that clog the pores
- Mechanical irritation — frequent touching of the face, sports equipment against the skin (helmet, mobile phone)
What to avoid when you have acne
Many people with acne unknowingly do things that make the condition worse. Here are the five most common mistakes:
1. Don't squeeze — no matter how tempting it is
Squeezing pimples pushes bacteria deeper into the skin, worsens inflammation, and significantly increases the risk of permanent acne scars. Let the pimple come to a head and treat it with an anti-inflammatory product instead.
2. Over-cleansing and harsh scrubs
It feels natural to want to wash "everything away" — but cleansing too often or too vigorously dries out the skin and prompts the sebaceous glands to produce even more sebum in compensation. Cleanse your face morning and evening with a mild foaming cleanser. That is enough.
3. Steroid creams on the face
Corticosteroids can temporarily reduce redness, but they stimulate the sebaceous glands and worsen acne over time. Steroid-induced acne (acne steroidica) is a well-known side effect and requires separate treatment.
4. Heavy, occlusive creams and oil-based makeup
Products that form a thick layer over the skin — oil-based foundations, rich night creams, coconut oil — can clog pores and create an ideal environment for bacteria and Demodex mites to thrive. Choose products labeled "non-comedogenic" and "oil-free."
5. Repeatedly touching your face
Hands are covered in bacteria and oil — repeatedly touching your face spreads Cutibacterium acnes and irritates already inflamed skin. Be mindful of this habit, especially when holding your phone against your cheek.
RRC Cream — calms acne at its source
Zinc oxide and sulfur fight Demodex mites and soothe active inflammation. Nature’s own ingredients in a gentle night cream. Developed for sensitive skin.
Try CØLM →Acne treatment
Acne treatment is tailored to its severity. Mild acne — a few blackheads and closed comedones — can be kept under control with a consistent, gentle home-care routine. Moderate to severe acne with many bumps, pustules, or cysts usually requires a combination of topical treatments and, in some cases, prescription medication.
A good basic acne routine consists of:
- Morning: Gentle cleansing → light, oil-free moisturizer → SPF 30–50 (UV radiation worsens acne scars)
- Evening: Thorough but gentle cleansing → anti-inflammatory active treatment (e.g., ZZ-Cream) → skip heavy night cream on affected areas
ZZ-Cream is particularly relevant for acne because it combines zinc oxide (antibacterial and anti-inflammatory), sulfur (regulates sebum production and combats Demodex mites), and salicylic acid (helps loosen clogged pores and remove the buildup of dead skin cells). Chinese herbal extracts in the formula provide additional anti-inflammatory properties — a traditional natural remedy with a thousand-year history.
If your acne does not respond to over-the-counter products after 8–12 weeks, it is worth talking to a doctor about a prescription for topical benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, adapalene, or antibiotic gel. Severe cystic acne may require oral treatment.
When should you see a doctor about acne?
Acne can often be treated effectively with over-the-counter products - but there are situations where it is wise to seek professional help:
- The acne is cystic or nodular - deep, painful nodules and cysts should be treated by a doctor, as they carry a high risk of permanent scarring
- The acne is pronounced on your chest, back, and shoulders - this form responds best to systemic treatment
- Noticeable scarring or hyperpigmentation develops despite treatment - early intervention significantly reduces the risk of permanent changes
- The condition is affecting your mental well-being - acne is one of the skin conditions with the greatest documented psychological impact; take it seriously
- Over-the-counter treatments have no effect after 8–12 weeks of consistent use - a dermatologist can prescribe stronger treatments such as isotretinoin (Roaccutane) for severe acne
A dermatologist will typically assess the severity of the acne (mild / moderate / severe) and tailor treatment accordingly. Isotretinoin is the most effective treatment for severe acne and is prescribed only by specialists in dermatology and venereology.
Frequently asked questions about acne
What triggers acne?
Acne is caused by a combination of excess sebum production, clogged hair follicles, growth of the bacterium Cutibacterium acnes, and an inflammatory response. Hormonal fluctuations - especially during puberty, menstruation, and periods of stress - are the most common triggers. Certain medications, occlusive products, and hair follicle mites (Demodex) can further aggravate the condition.
Is acne hereditary?
Yes, hereditary factors play a major role. Research shows that the risk of developing severe acne is significantly higher if both parents have had the condition. But genetics is not destiny - lifestyle, skincare, and early treatment can influence how severe the acne becomes.
Is acne contagious?
No, acne is not contagious and cannot be passed from person to person. Acne is an internal skin reaction to excess sebum production and hormonal factors - not an infection that can spread through contact.
What is the difference between acne and rosacea?
Acne is characterized by comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), pimples, and cysts — and typically begins during the teenage years. Rosacea causes persistent redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels without comedones, and most often affects adults from the age of 30. Perioral dermatitis is a third condition that resembles acne and rosacea, but is localized around the mouth. A dermatologist can make the correct diagnosis.
Can diet affect acne?
Diet has a limited but real effect. Foods with a high glycemic index — white bread, sugar, and soda — can raise insulin levels and stimulate sebum production. Some studies link dairy products to worsening acne. However, there is considerable individual variation, and diet alone can rarely explain severe acne.
Can adults get acne too?
Yes, adult acne (onset after age 25) is particularly common in women and is becoming more prevalent. Hormonal factors such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), contraception, and menopause are common causes. Adult acne typically appears on the chin, jawline, and neck, and responds well to the same treatment principles as teenage acne.
Can acne leave permanent scars?
Yes, especially cystic and nodular acne can leave permanent scars on the skin. The risk increases significantly when pimples are squeezed. The earlier acne is treated effectively, the lower the risk of scarring. If scars have already formed, a dermatologist can offer treatments such as chemical peels, microneedling, or laser therapy.
RRC Cream — calms acne at its source
Zinc oxide and sulfur fight Demodex mites and soothe active inflammation. Nature’s own ingredients in a gentle night cream. Developed for sensitive skin.
Try CØLM →References
- Sundhed.dk — Acne — causes and risk factors. The Patient Handbook, Danish Health Authority.
- Thiboutot D et al. — Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris (2024). Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
- Kutlu Ö et al. — The Association Between Acne Vulgaris and Demodex Mite Presence (2024). PMC / National Library of Medicine.
- Szepietowski JC et al. — Demodex spp. as a possible aetiopathogenic factor of acne (2018). PMC / National Library of Medicine.
- Heng AHS, Chew FT — Recent Trends in the Management of Acne Vulgaris: A Review (2024). PMC / National Library of Medicine.
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