Understanding Acne: Causes, Types and Effective Treatments

Acne isn’t just a skin concern it reflects a person’s emotional quotient. It can affect how you feel about yourself every single day. Acne breaks one’s self confidence, be it  teenagers battling hormonal breakouts or adults dealing with stubborn pimples that never seem to leave. 

The good news? Understanding your skin and skin type  better is the first step towards calming it.

Whether you’re exploring options for acne treatment in Kollam or anywhere in Kerala, a clear, healthy skin is absolutely possible with the right care and guidance. TLC Skyn guides each patient to know their skin type and brings clarity to each one of them to reduce acne and control acne.

What Is Acne?

Acne is a common skin condition seen in oily skin type individuals that occurs when pores get clogged with oil, dead skin, or bacteria. This can lead to blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or even deeper, painful cysts. It reflects how your skin reacts to internal and external changes.

Acne is a common skin issue which is mostly found in the people having oily skin type and it is characteristically caused by the blockage of pores due to oil, dead skin, or bacteria. The blockage may result in the formation of blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or even deeper, painful cysts. It shows the adaptation of your skin to the internal and external changes.

Common Causes of Acne

There’s no single cause for acne. It’s usually a mix of:

Hormonal reasons – especially during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy or stress.

Excess oil production – when sebaceous glands are overactive.

Clogged pores – from dead skin cells or heavy cosmetics.

Bacteria (C. acnes) – that trigger inflammation inside pores.

Diet and lifestyle – foods high in sugar or dairy, poor sleep and dehydration can make it worse.

Types of Acne and How to Identify Them

Acne might look alike for everyone but underneath it has a varied presentation. Knowing the type of acne you have helps decide what kind of care or treatment your skin really needs.

Here’s a closer look at the main types:

1.  Whiteheads (Closed Comedones)

These are tiny, round bumps that form when oil and dead cells clog a pore, but the top stays closed  hence the name whitehead.

They’re usually not painful but can make your skin feel bumpy. 

2. Blackheads (Open Comedones)

Blackheads are similar to whiteheads but with an open pore. When the trapped oil meets air, it oxidizes and turns dark  due to this chemical reaction. They often appear on the nose, forehead and chin. 

3. Papules (Red Bumps)

Papules are small, red, tender bumps that occur when a clogged pore becomes inflamed. They don’t have visible pus on top and touching them can worsen inflammation.

4. Pustules (Pimples with Pus)

Pustules look like classic pimples  red at the base, with a white or yellow top. They form when the immune system reacts to bacteria inside a blocked pore.

5. Nodules

Nodular acne develops deeper within the skin. These bumps are hard, painful and can last for weeks.

They don’t usually come to a “head” and should never be squeezed, as it can lead to scarring.

6. Cystic Acne

The most severe form, cystic acne appears as large, pus-filled lumps under the skin. It’s often hormonal and can be emotionally distressing because it leaves behind marks or scars.

7. Fungal Acne (Malassezia Folliculitis)

Often mistaken for regular acne, fungal acne is caused by yeast overgrowth rather than bacteria. It shows up as itchy, uniform bumps usually on the chest, shoulders, or back.

Factors That Can Worsen Acne

Even mild acne can get aggravated by certain habits:

• Constantly touching or squeezing pimples.
• Sleeping with makeup on.
• Using harsh scrubs or alcohol-based products.
• Excess stress and lack of proper rest.
• Poor hydration and irregular cleansing routines.
• Overexfoliating your skin with exfoliants
• Pro inflammatory diet like dairy products and sugars .

Effective Remedies for Acne

Home care plays a vital role in controlling acne:

• Use a gentle cleanser twice daily.
• Include  salicylic acid-based products under dermatologist guidance.
• Don’t forget to use sunscreens and moisturiser inspite of having oily skin.
• Keep your pillowcases and makeup brushes clean.
• Eat balanced, skin-loving meals  take greens, nuts and plenty of water.
• Avoid using home remedies like toothpaste , citrus juices directly to the skin.
• Be watchful of Vitamin C serums

These small steps support medical treatments beautifully, helping your skin heal faster and stay clear longer.

Medical Treatments for Acne

When acne persists despite good care, professional treatment is the next step. At TLC Skyn, our dermatologists design acne solutions that combine science with sensitivity  ensuring visible results without compromising skin health.

We focus on:

Chemical Peels – to clear pores and reduce scars.

Medifacials – calm inflammation and rebalance oil.

Laser Therapy – targets acne-causing bacteria and improves texture.

Microneedling radio frequency (MORPHEUS 8) – to target acne scars.

Prescription Topicals & Medications – for bringing acne under control.

If you’re seeking reliable acne treatment in Kerala, choosing a trusted Dermatology Clinic in Kollam like TLC Skyn ensures that your journey is safe, personalized and long-lasting.

When to Visit a Dermatologist

You can seek treatment at any point of acne. Early treatment paves way for a healthy and clear skin without leaving marks.Acne inevitably leaves with acne marks and scars. Early prevention regardless of age is the mainstay of our treatment. Also if your acne is affecting your confidence – it’s time to consult a dermatologist. Early treatment prevents scarring and helps you regain control over your skin faster. You don’t have to wait for it to get “bad enough” to seek help.

Final Thought

Acne can be stubborn,  less predictable and sensitive to every person. It’s not just about pimples on the skin  it’s about how those breakouts make or break your confidence when you look in the mirror. But here’s the truth: acne is treatable and clear, balanced skin is possible with the right understanding and care.

Real improvement begins when you stop fighting your skin and start listening to it. Every breakout has a reason  be it hormones, stress, or genetics  and once that’s understood, healing becomes gentler and lasting.

At TLC Skyn, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all acne care. We look deeper  at your skin’s behavior, your lifestyle and your goals  to create treatment plans that work with your skin, not against it. From advanced peels and medifacials to laser and personalized home routines, every step is thoughtfully chosen to bring your skin back to balance.

If you are looking for reliable acne treatment in Kollam or at any part of Kerala, you are not the only one and your skin is capable of beautiful recovery. Acne slowly disappears, scars get less visible and self-esteem quietly comes back with time, perseverance and proper advice.

Because clear skin isn’t just about looking better. It’s about feeling free, free to step out, smile wide and meet the world without hesitation. We help you to rediscover yourself and smile at your own confidence.