Almost everyone has dealt with acne at some point — a breakout before a big event, a few stubborn spots that won’t fade, or recurring pimples that seem to return no matter what. But what many people don’t realise is that every acne tells a different story. The key to clear skin lies in understanding the cause behind it — not just treating the surface.
Why acne isn’t the same for everyone
According to Dr. Priya Puja and Dr. Rozy Badyal, Consultant Dermatologists at Kaya Clinic, acne is not a one-size-fits-all problem. “From teenagers going through puberty to adults struggling with hormonal changes, the causes of acne differ — and so should the treatments,” they explain.
Earlier, acne was mostly seen in teenagers. But today, adult acne is becoming increasingly common. “Stress, pollution, and hormonal imbalances are major triggers,” adds Dr. Puja. “The first step is to identify what’s driving your acne before choosing any treatment.”
Understanding acne grades and severity
Dermatologists classify acne into grades based on its intensity. Recognising the right grade helps your doctor design a customised treatment plan.
The four grades of acne
- Grade 1: Mild acne — includes small whiteheads and blackheads.
- Grade 2: Moderate acne — visible pustules and mild inflammation.
- Grade 3: Severe acne — painful nodules and deep lesions.
- Grade 4: Cystic acne — large, painful cysts that may leave scars.
“Grades 3 and 4 often require medical intervention and advanced treatments to prevent scarring,” explains Dr. Badyal. “Early consultation can stop acne from progressing to these severe stages.”
The deeper causes behind acne
Acne isn’t just a skin problem — it’s a reflection of what’s happening inside your body. The main triggers include:
1. Excess sebum production
When your oil glands produce too much sebum, pores get clogged, allowing bacteria to grow and cause breakouts.
2. Bacterial growth and inflammation
Bacteria trapped inside blocked pores cause inflammation, redness, and pus-filled pimples.
3. Hormonal imbalance
Conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) or hyperandrogenism can trigger acne by increasing oil production. “Women experiencing hormonal acne usually see breakouts along the jawline and chin,” says Dr. Puja. “Treating hormonal imbalance is crucial for long-term control.”
4. Lifestyle and gut health
Stress, poor sleep, high-sugar diets, and digestive issues also play a huge role. “Fixing your gut or reducing sugar intake helps some patients more than any topical cream,” notes Dr. Badyal.
Why self-treatment can make it worse
Many people try DIY remedies or random skincare actives hoping for quick results — but that often backfires. “Thinking acne can be treated with over-the-counter acids or home packs like multani mitti is not the right approach,” warns Dr. Puja. “Such methods may temporarily dry out pimples but can irritate the skin, leading to even more breakouts.”
Instead, the doctors recommend consulting a dermatologist to identify what’s triggering your acne. “Each case is unique — one person may need hormone correction, another may just need to tweak their skincare routine,” explains Dr. Badyal.
What really works: a personalised plan
The secret to clear skin lies in a customised approach. Once the underlying cause is identified, dermatologists can build a plan combining the right treatments, skincare, and nutrition.
- For mild acne: gentle cleansers, topical retinoids, and medical facials can help.
- For hormonal acne: targeted medications or hormone-balancing therapies may be needed.
- For severe or cystic acne: oral medication, chemical peels, or laser-based treatments often show the best results.
“Treatment that targets the root cause always performs better,” says Dr. Puja. “It not only clears acne but also prevents scarring and pigmentation.”
Simple changes that can support your skin
Along with medical care, small lifestyle adjustments can make a big difference:
- Avoid excessive sugar and dairy products that can worsen breakouts.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and water.
- Follow a consistent skincare routine using dermatologist-approved products.
- Manage stress and get enough sleep — your skin heals while you rest.
“Acne is often a signal from your body asking for balance,” says Dr. Badyal. “When you address both your inner health and your skin, results are long-lasting.”
Early treatment is the best prevention
Ignoring acne or delaying treatment can lead to permanent scars and pigmentation. “Early intervention helps us control acne effectively and preserve skin texture,” says Dr. Puja. “With the right care and consistency, it’s completely possible to achieve clear, healthy skin.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What causes acne in adults?
Adult acne is usually triggered by hormonal imbalances, stress, poor diet, or unsuitable skincare products. In women, conditions like PCOS can also cause acne around the jawline and chin.
2. Can acne appear even if I have dry skin?
Yes. Acne isn’t limited to oily skin. Even dry skin can break out if the pores get clogged or if your skin barrier is damaged due to harsh products or dehydration.
3. Is it okay to pop pimples at home?
No. Popping or squeezing pimples can push bacteria deeper into the skin, leading to scarring and pigmentation. Always let a dermatologist handle extractions safely.
4. Does diet really affect acne?
Yes, diet plays a role. Foods high in sugar and dairy can increase inflammation and worsen acne for some people. Eating a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and water supports clear skin.
5. How can I tell what grade of acne I have?
Grades range from mild blackheads and whiteheads (Grade 1) to painful cystic acne (Grade 4). A dermatologist can assess your skin and recommend the right treatment plan.
6. Can stress cause acne?
Yes, stress can increase cortisol levels, which in turn triggers oil production and inflammation, leading to breakouts. Relaxation and proper sleep are part of acne management.
7. Are home remedies effective for acne?
Most home remedies offer temporary relief but don’t address the root cause. Some, like lemon juice or toothpaste, can even irritate the skin. It’s best to follow dermatologist-recommended acne scar treatment.
8. How long does it take for acne treatment to show results?
Results vary by severity and cause. Mild acne may improve within 4–6 weeks, while hormonal or cystic acne can take several months of consistent, guided treatment.
Final thoughts
Acne isn’t just a cosmetic concern — it’s a message from your body. By identifying its cause and treating it with a personalised plan, you can heal your skin from within. As the Kaya experts remind us, your skin reflects your inner balance — nurture both with care and expert guidance.
Source: Expert insights from dermatologists at Kaya Clinic.
