What is Acne?

Acne (medical term Acne vulgaris) is one of the most common skin conditions worldwide. It appears as clogged pores, blackheads (comedones), inflammatory pustules and papules, and in severe cases as nodules or cysts.¹ The most affected areas are the face, chest and back – regions with a high density of sebaceous glands.

Although acne is often seen as a teenage problem, it can occur at any age – even in adulthood. The so-called adult acne (Acne tarda) mainly affects women over 25.

How common is acne?

Globally, about 85 % of adolescents and young adults aged 12–24 experience acne at some point. Up to 54 % of women over 25 report recurrent blemishes or inflammatory adult acne.² The condition can be both physically and psychologically burdensome, affecting self-esteem, social behaviour and overall quality of life.

Causes – why does acne occur?

Acne results from a combination of several factors:

1. Hormonal fluctuations: Androgens such as testosterone stimulate sebaceous glands. Therefore, acne often occurs during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy or hormonal imbalance.
2. Excess sebum production: Overproduction of sebum clogs pores.³
3. Keratinisation disorders: Dead skin cells stick together with sebum and block the pores.
4. Bacterial colonisation: Cutibacterium acnes multiplies in blocked follicles and triggers inflammation.
5. Lifestyle factors: High-glycaemic foods, sugary drinks, dairy and omega-3 deficiency may aggravate acne.
6. Stress: Stress hormones such as cortisol promote inflammation.

Types of acne

• Acne comedonica: Blackheads without inflammation
• Acne papulopustulosa: Papules and pustules with inflammation
• Acne conglobata: Severe, painful nodules and cysts
• Acne mechanica: Caused by friction (e.g. helmets, masks)
• Acne tarda: Adult-onset acne

Teenage acne vs. adult acne

Teenage acne usually affects oily skin with strong sebum production. Adult acne often occurs in combination or dry skin – it is more persistent and tends to cause deep inflammation along the jawline. Hormonal factors are common, which is why women are disproportionately affected.⁴

Treatment – what really helps?

Effective therapy depends on severity, skin type and cause. It should combine sebum regulation, anti-inflammatory action, unclogging pores and controlling bacteria.

Topical treatments

• Niacinamide: Anti-inflammatory, reduces redness, strengthens the skin barrier.⁵
• Benzoyl peroxide: Antibacterial against C. acnes, oxidative effect.
• Salicylic acid (BHA): Dissolves sebum and removes dead cells.
• Retinoids: Regulate cell renewal and keratinisation.
• Zinc: Anti-inflammatory and sebum-regulating.

Systemic therapy (medical)

• Isotretinoin: The most effective treatment for severe acne; acts on all pathogenic mechanisms – prescribed under medical supervision.⁶
• Antibiotics: Short-term therapy to reduce inflammation (e.g. doxycycline, erythromycin).

Cosmetics & lifestyle

Skincare tips for acne

• Use non-comedogenic products
• Gentle cleansing, no scrubbing
• Daily lightweight sun protection
• Maintain a consistent routine
• Do not squeeze pimples

Nutrition & wellbeing

• Reduce sugar, white flour and dairy
• Prefer omega-3-rich foods
• Lower stress through exercise, meditation or sufficient sleep

Conclusion

Acne is complex but treatable. With targeted care, knowledge and, if necessary, medical support, the skin’s appearance can be sustainably improved. Ingredients such as niacinamide, salicylic acid or zinc are well supported by scientific evidence. NATURFACTOR® relies on gentle, evidence-based formulations suitable even for sensitive, acne-prone skin – free from unnecessary irritants.

References

1. StatPearls Publishing. Acne Vulgaris. NCBI, 2024.
2. Layton A M et al. Psychological Impact of Acne. BJD, 2022.
3. Gollnick H. Pathogenesis of Acne. JDDG, 2021.
4. Del Rosso JQ. Acne in Adult Women. JCAD, 2020.
5. Draelos Z D. Topical Niacinamide: Clinical Evidence, 2021.
6. Layton A M. Isotretinoin Use in Acne. Dermatologic Therapy, 2022.