Acne is an inflammatory reaction in the skin that occurs when the sebaceous glands produce too much sebum and the hair follicles become clogged. This causes blackheads, bumps, and pimples — most often on the face, chest, and back. Acne is most common in adolescents during puberty but can affect all ages. The condition is not contagious and can be effectively controlled with the right care.
What is acne?
Acne is most often seen in young people going through puberty and is therefore a somewhat different condition than rosacea. It is usually an inflammatory skin condition resulting from the major changes occurring in hormone balance. Acne can appear on the face, back, and chest, and the condition can take many different forms.
The skin changes include:
- Blackheads
- Bumps or pimples
- Cysts
- Boils
As mentioned, acne is very common among young people. That said, the impact of the condition on quality of life should not be underestimated. Therefore, especially if someone is very distressed, it is important to have the acne treated.
Causes of acne
Acne occurs due to excessive sebum production, which attracts many unwanted bacteria, as a sebum-rich environment is an ideal habitat — especially for the hair follicle mite. Therefore, it is important to eliminate the unwanted bacteria, where for example the ZZ cream is excellent.
Clinically, acne arises from an interaction of four factors: overproduction of sebum from the sebaceous glands, blockage of hair follicles (which forms the blackhead — the actual plug), growth of the bacterium Cutibacterium acnes in the sebum-rich environment, and a subsequent inflammatory reaction. Additionally, there are Demodex mites — hair follicle mites that thrive in sebum-rich follicles — which 2024 research links to worsening acne in a significant portion of patients.
The most common triggering factors are:
- Hormonal fluctuations — puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and stress increase testosterone and other androgens, which stimulate the sebaceous glands
- Hereditary factors — if both parents have had acne, the risk is significantly higher
- Certain medications — anabolic steroids, corticosteroids, lithium, and some contraceptives can worsen acne
- Occlusive products — heavy, greasy creams and oily makeup that clog the pores
- Mechanical irritation — frequent touching of the face, sports equipment against the skin (helmet, mobile phone)
What you should avoid with acne
Many with acne unknowingly do things that worsen the condition. Here are the five most common mistakes:
1. Do not squeeze — no matter how tempting it is
Popping pimples pushes bacteria deeper into the skin, intensifies inflammation, and significantly increases the risk of permanent acne scars. Let the pimple mature and treat it with an anti-inflammatory product instead.
2. Excessive cleansing and aggressive scrubs
It feels natural to want to "wash it all away" — but too frequent and harsh cleansing dries out the skin and activates sebaceous glands to produce even more sebum as compensation. Cleanse your face morning and evening with a mild, foaming product. That is enough.
3. Steroid creams on the face
Corticosteroids can temporarily reduce redness but stimulate sebaceous glands and worsen acne over time. Steroid-induced acne (acne steroidica) is a well-known side effect and requires separate treatment.
4. Heavy, occlusive creams and oily makeup
Products that form a thick layer over the skin — oily foundations, rich night creams, coconut oil — can clog pores and create an ideal environment for bacteria and Demodex mites to thrive. Choose products labeled "non-comedogenic" and "oil-free."
5. Repeatedly touching the face
Hands are full of bacteria and oils — repeatedly touching the face spreads Cutibacterium acnes and irritates already inflamed skin. Be aware of this habit, especially when holding a phone to your cheek.
RRC-Cream — reduces acne at the root
Zinc oxide and sulfur combat Demodex mites and reduce active inflammation. Natural ingredients in a gentle night cream. Developed for sensitive skin.
Try CØLM →Acne treatment
Acne treatment is adjusted according to severity. Mild acne — few blackheads and closed comedones — can be controlled with a consistent, gentle home care routine. Moderate to severe acne with many papules, pustules, or cysts usually requires a combination of topical agents and sometimes prescription medication.
A good basic routine for acne consists of:
- Morning: Mild cleansing → light, oil-free moisturizer → SPF 30–50 (UV exposure worsens acne scars)
- Evening: Thorough but gentle cleansing → anti-inflammatory active treatment (e.g., ZZ-Cream) → skip heavy night cream on affected areas
The ZZ-Cream is particularly relevant for acne because it combines zinc oxide (antibacterial and anti-inflammatory), sulfur (regulates sebum production and fights Demodex mites), and salicylic acid (helps loosen clogged pores and remove buildup of dead skin cells). Chinese herbal extracts in the formula provide additional anti-inflammatory properties — a traditional natural medicine practice with a history of thousands of years.
If you have acne that does not respond to over-the-counter products after 8–12 weeks, it is worth consulting a doctor about a prescription for topical benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, adapalene, or antibiotic gel. Severe cystic acne may require oral treatment.
When should you see a doctor for acne?
Acne can often be effectively treated with over-the-counter products — but there are situations where it is wise to seek professional help:
- The acne is cystic or nodulocystic — deep, painful nodules and cysts should be treated by a doctor as they carry a high risk of permanent scarring
- The acne is pronounced on the chest, back, and shoulders — this form responds best to systemic treatment
- Visible scars or hyperpigmentation occur despite treatment — early intervention significantly reduces the risk of permanent changes
- The condition affects your mental well-being — acne is one of the skin conditions with the most documented psychological impact; take it seriously
- Over-the-counter treatments have no effect after 8–12 weeks of consistent use — a dermatologist can prescribe stronger medications such as isotretinoin (Roaccutane) for severe acne
A dermatologist will typically assess the severity of acne (mild / moderate / severe) and tailor treatment accordingly. Isotretinoin is the most effective treatment for severe acne and is only prescribed by dermatology specialists.
Frequently asked questions about acne
What triggers acne?
Acne is triggered by a combination of sebum overproduction, blockage of hair follicles, growth of the bacterium Cutibacterium acnes, and an inflammatory reaction. Hormonal fluctuations — especially during puberty, menstruation, and stress — are the most common triggers. Certain medications, occlusive products, and hair follicle mites (Demodex) can further worsen the condition.
Is acne hereditary?
Yes, hereditary factors play a major role. Research shows that the risk of developing severe acne is significantly increased if both parents have had the condition. But genetics is not destiny — lifestyle, skincare, and early treatment can determine how severe the acne becomes.
Is acne contagious?
No, acne is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person. Acne is an internal reaction in the skin to overproduction of sebum and hormonal factors — not an infection that can spread through contact.
What is the difference between acne and rosacea?
Acne is characterized by comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), pimples, and cysts — and typically begins in the teenage years. Rosacea causes persistent redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels without comedones, and mostly affects adults from age 30. Perioral dermatitis is a third condition that resembles acne and rosacea but is localized around the mouth. A dermatologist can make the correct diagnosis.
Can diet affect acne?
Diet has a limited but real effect. Foods with a high glycemic index — white bread, sugar, soda — can raise insulin levels and stimulate sebum production. Dairy products are linked in some studies to worsening acne. However, there is great individual variation, and diet alone rarely explains severe acne.
Can adults also get acne?
Yes, adult acne (onset after age 25) is particularly common in women and is increasing. Hormonal factors such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), contraception, and menopause are frequent causes. Adult acne typically appears on the chin, jawline, and neck, and responds well to the same treatment principles as adolescent acne.
Can acne leave permanent scars?
Yes, especially cystic and nodular acne can leave permanent scars on the skin. The risk increases significantly when squeezing pimples. The earlier acne is treated effectively, the lower the risk of scarring. If scars have already formed, a dermatologist can offer treatments such as chemical peeling, microneedling, or laser therapy.
RRC-Cream — reduces acne at the root
Zinc oxide and sulfur combat Demodex mites and reduce active inflammation. Natural ingredients in a gentle night cream. Developed for sensitive skin.
Try CØLM →References
- Sundhed.dk — Acne — causes and risk factors. Patient Handbook, Danish Health Authority.
- Thiboutot D et al. — Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris (2024). Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
- Kutlu Ö et al. — The Association Between Acne Vulgaris and Demodex Mite Presence (2024). PMC / National Library of Medicine.
- Szepietowski JC et al. — Demodex spp. as a possible aetiopathogenic factor of acne (2018). PMC / National Library of Medicine.
- Heng AHS, Chew FT — Recent Trends in the Management of Acne Vulgaris: A Review (2024). PMC / National Library of Medicine.
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