What is acne and how does it develop
Acne occurs when a pore becomes clogged with sebum and dead skin cells, after which a skin bacterium causes inflammation. It is never just one cause, but a combination of sebum, blockages, bacteria, and inflammation, driven by your hormones, your predisposition, and your skin barrier. And most importantly, acne is never your fault.
What exactly is acne?
Acne is a skin condition that starts in your pores, the small channels that bring sebum to the surface. Sebum is the oil your skin produces itself. When too much sebum and too many dead skin cells come together, such a pore becomes clogged. In that sealed pore, a skin bacterium grows faster, and then your skin becomes red, sensitive, and inflamed. This is how blackheads, red pimples, or deeper bumps under your skin develop.
How does acne develop, step by step?
Acne arises from four processes that reinforce each other. Researchers consistently observe the same four processes. How strongly each process affects you varies from person to person. That is why acne feels so variable and everyone has their own pattern.
| Process | What happens |
|---|---|
| More sebum | Your skin produces more oil than it can get rid of |
| Clogged pore | Sebum and dead skin cells block the pore |
| Bacterial growth | In the sealed pore, a skin bacterium grows rapidly |
| Inflammation | Your skin reacts with redness, pain, and swelling |
What types of pimples are there?
There are roughly three types: blackheads, inflamed pimples, and deeper bumps or cysts. They feel different and each requires a slightly different approach.
| Type | What it is | How it feels |
|---|---|---|
|
Blackheads, closed comedones |
Clogged pore with sebum and dead cells. A black dot if the pore is open, a white bump if it is closed | Usually not painful |
| Pimple | A clogged pore that becomes inflamed | Red and sensitive |
| Cyst or subcutaneous bump | An inflammation located deeper in the skin | Painful, lasts long, can cause scars |
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Want to learn more about your type? You can read about it in treating impure skin, identify your type of acne.
Why do I get acne, and why now?
Acne is rarely caused by one thing, but hormones, stress, and your predisposition together determine how strongly your skin reacts. Around your cycle, the hormones that control your sebum fluctuate, which is why acne often flares up right before your period, or when you start or stop birth control. You can read more about this in hormonal acne explained, which hormones affect your skin.
Stress also plays a role. Your body then produces more cortisol, which makes your skin more sensitive and exacerbates existing inflammations. That's why pimples often appear during busy periods. And oily skin? It produces more sebum, but the amount of oil doesn't determine everything; it's how sensitively your skin reacts. Some women don't have shiny skin at all and yet still have stubborn pimples.
Finally, research indicates that nutrition, gut health, and hormones influence each other. A lot of fast sugars or certain dairy products can make the skin more susceptible to inflammation. The exact mechanism is still being investigated, so big promises are not appropriate here.
Do I get acne from bad or insufficient cleansing?
No, acne starts in the pore itself and not from dirt on your skin. However, cleansing does make a difference. An overly aggressive cleanser damages your skin barrier, making your skin red, dry, and irritable faster, which actually worsens inflammation. A gentle cleanser that doesn't dry out your skin keeps your pores clean without stressing your barrier. Does your skin feel tight after cleansing? Then it's best to read is your skin barrier damaged. Our Calming Cleanser is gentle enough for that.
Is acne contagious?
No, acne is not contagious and you cannot transmit it. The bacterium that plays a role in acne lives on everyone's skin, so you won't get pimples by touching someone or sharing items. Acne occurs because your skin reacts faster with blockages or inflammation. It has nothing to do with hygiene.
What is the difference between teenage acne and adult acne?
Teenage acne is mainly caused by the hormonal surges of puberty, which suddenly make your skin produce much more sebum, often with blackheads on the nose and forehead. Adult acne in women is more often hormonal and cyclical. The spots are more around the chin, cheeks, and jawline, feel deeper and more persistent, and usually come with fewer blackheads. Do you recognize thinking that pimples belonged to your teenage years and yet later you're still looking in the mirror? You're not alone, and you didn't do anything wrong.
What can I do now?
I'm Sofie, I develop all Belskin products in my own lab, and every day I see how relieved women are when they finally understand what's happening with their skin. Do you want to know what suits your skin? Then I'd be happy to help you through personal guidance. Feel free to make an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I still have acne as an adult?
Adult acne is mainly caused by hormonal fluctuations and stress. Around your period, during stress, or when you change contraception, your skin produces more sebum and becomes inflamed more easily.
Do I get acne from oily skin?
Not necessarily. Oily skin can clog pores faster, but the sensitivity of your skin weighs at least as heavily. Even without oily skin, you can have stubborn pimples.
Is acne my fault?
No, never. Acne is caused by hormones, predisposition, and a sensitive skin barrier. You do not cause it through bad habits or lack of hygiene.
Can stress worsen my acne?
Yes. When under stress, your body produces more cortisol, which makes your skin more sensitive and exacerbates existing inflammations. That's why acne often flares up during busy periods.
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