Acne: Causes, Types, Treatment Options, and Prevention - Medical Aesthetics & Skin Care Clinic in Singapore

Acne is a common skin condition that affects people regardless of age, especially during adolescence. In Singapore, it affects up to 88% of adolescents, with 50% experiencing moderate to severe forms of acne. It can take shape in various forms, from mild blackheads and whiteheads to severe nodules and cysts. Understanding what causes acne, the different types, and the available treatment options can help manage and prevent future breakouts.

What is Acne?

Acne occurs when your hair follicles have become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Bacteria, such as Cutibacterium acnes, can then thrive in these blocked pores, causing inflammation and the development of pimples. The severity of acne varies from person to person, ranging from mild to severe, and it can affect the face, back, shoulders, and chest.

Causes of Acne

Several factors influence the development of acne, and understanding them is essential for prevention and management.

Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormones, especially during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or from conditions like PCOS, can increase oil production, leading to acne.
Genetics: A family history of acne can influence individuals to the condition.
Diet: Diets high in refined sugars and carbohydrates may trigger acne breakouts.
Stress: Stress can worsen acne by causing hormonal imbalances.
Pollution: Environmental factors, such as pollution, can clog pores and irritate the skin.
Makeup and skincare products: Products that are not labelled as non-comedogenic can block pores and lead to acne.
Hygiene: Poor hygiene or infrequent face washing can allow oil and bacteria to build up, causing acne.

Types of Acne

There are different types of acne, classified based on the severity of the lesions.

1. Mild Acne: Blackheads and Whiteheads

Mild acne usually presents as blackheads and whiteheads. Blackheads are open pores clogged with oil and dead skin cells, which darken due to exposure to air. Whiteheads, on the other hand, are closed pores filled with oil and dead cells, appearing as small white bumps on the skin.

2. Moderate Acne: Papules and Pustules

Moderate acne involves papules and pustules. Papules are small, red, inflamed bumps, while pustules are similar but contain pus at their tips. Both types of acne result from inflamed lesions and clogged pores, often requiring targeted treatment to prevent progression.

3. Severe Acne: Nodules and Cysts

Severe acne includes nodules and cysts, which are more profound, larger, and more painful than mild or moderate acne forms. Nodules are hard, inflamed lumps beneath the skin, while cysts are pus-filled lesions that can lead to scarring if not treated properly. Severe acne often requires medical intervention, as over-the-counter treatments may not be effective.

Teen Acne vs Adult Acne

If you thought acne was something you’d outgrow after your teenage years, you’re not alone — but skin doesn’t always follow that timeline.

Teenage acne tends to flare up with puberty when hormonal spikes overstimulate oil glands, causing oily skin, clogged pores, and fast-forming breakouts mostly across the forehead, nose, and chin. Thankfully, younger skin is naturally more resilient and heals quicker, thanks to its rapid cell turnover.

Adult acne, however, is a different story: it’s often deeper, more inflamed, and slower to heal, usually showing up around the lower face, like the jawline and chin. This time, it’s not just about hormones — stress, diet, sleep deprivation, and a weakened skin barrier all play their part, making breakouts more stubborn and post-acne marks linger longer. That’s why what worked as a teenager — like aggressive scrubs or oil-stripping cleansers — can backfire in adulthood.

Adult skin benefits more from barrier-repairing ingredients, calming routines, and a lifestyle that supports hormonal balance and reduces chronic stress. Understanding these differences isn’t just helpful — it’s crucial for treating the skin with the care it needs at every stage of life.

Treatment Options for Acne

Treating acne varies depending on its seriousness and skin type. Below are common treatment options, ranging from over-the-counter products to medical interventions.

Over-the-Counter Products

Mild acne may improve with non-prescription products that include:

Benzoyl Peroxide – Reduces acne-causing bacteria and oil
Salicylic Acid – Exfoliates and clears clogged pores
Topical Retinoids – Promotes cell turnover and prevents pore blockage

These are commonly found in facial washes, gels, and creams.

Moderate Acne: Papules and Pustules

When over-the-counter products are insufficient, your doctor may recommend:

Topical Retinoids (Prescription-grade)
Oral Antibiotics – To reduce inflammation and bacteria
Hormonal Therapy – Including oral contraceptives or anti-androgens

These treatments are prescribed for moderate to severe acne after a clinical evaluation.

Treatments at AURA Clinic

Some cases of acne require clinic-based therapies, especially when breakouts are persistent, inflamed, or leave behind skin texture changes. At AURA Clinic, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following categories of in-clinic treatments:

Laser-Based Treatments

These treatments use specific wavelengths to reduce acne-causing bacteria, control oil production, and improve overall skin clarity.

Acne Laser

HydraFacial

HydraFacial uses a multi-step approach to cleanse pores, exfoliate dead skin, infuse active serums, and calm inflammation. Specialised variants target different acne-prone areas or combine added benefits.

Radiofrequency-Based Treatments

These treatments combine microneedling with controlled radiofrequency (RF) energy to address active acne, minimise oil production, and improve post-acne skin texture.

RF Microneedling

Injectable Skin Boosters

Injectables help restore the skin’s barrier, reduce inflammation, and support healing, especially useful for acne-prone or sensitive skin types.

Polynucleotide (PN) Skin Booster

Medical-Grade Facials

These are professionally administered treatments designed to unclog pores, soothe irritation, and rebalance acne-prone skin. Some options also support skin renewal and collagen stimulation.

Visit AURA Clinic acne treatment page for full details on each option.

How To Prevent Acne?

While acne cannot always be entirely avoided, the following measures can help minimise its occurrence and severity.

Cleanse the face twice daily with a soft, gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove excess oil, dirt, and dead cells that can clog pores. Following up with a moisturiser suitable for your skin type is essential.

Harmful chemical products can irritate the skin and cause acne. It’s crucial to choose skincare and makeup products labelled as “non-comedogenic” and avoid products with high alcohol content, which can rob the skin of moisture and lead to increased oil production.

Oily hair can transfer oils to your face, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. Washing your hair regularly and preventing it from getting on your face can help reduce acne on the forehead and around the hairline.

Refrain from touching your face with dirty hands to limit transfer of bacteria and oils to your skin, resulting in acne. Avoid picking or squeezing pimples, which can cause scarring and prolong the healing process.

Opt for a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit sugary and processed foods, which can also trigger acne in some individuals.

Ensure your skin remains well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, which supports your body’s natural detoxification processes, contributing to clearer skin.

Exposure to Ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause skin damage and worsen acne. Using sunblock lotion with at least SPF 30 daily can help protect your skin from sun damage.

Sweat can mix with oils and bacteria on the skin, leading to clogged pores. Shower or wash your face after sweating to prevent acne breakouts.

Stress can cause hormonal fluctuations that trigger acne. Incorporating stress-reducing practices like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can help balance hormones and prevent breakouts.

Tight clothing can trap sweat and oil, particularly on the back and shoulders, leading to body acne. Wearing loose-fitting clothes can reduce irritation and prevent breakouts.

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes, acne becomes severe enough to warrant professional medical treatment. You should consult a doctor if:

Acne is causing scarring or hyperpigmentation.
You have cystic acne that is painful and persistent.
Over-the-counter treatments do not seem to be improving your condition.

Doctors can assess your skin and recommend prescription treatments or therapies that are more effective for your specific skin type and acne severity. Visit AURA Clinic to get an assessment of your skin and choose an appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

Acne is a common skin condition, but with the proper knowledge, treatments, and preventative steps, you can manage and reduce its impact on your skin. Whether you’re dealing with mild blackheads or severe cystic acne, a combination of skincare routines, lifestyle changes, and, when necessary, consulting a doctor is recommended for personalised treatment options.

Acne
Causes, Types, Treatment Options, and Prevention

What is Acne?