Understanding Acne-Prone Skin: Causes, Triggers, and How to Support Skin Balance

What is acne-prone skin?

Acne-prone skin is characterised by a tendency toward clogged pores, inflammation, and recurring breakouts. This occurs when excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria accumulate within the follicle, triggering inflammatory responses in the skin.

Acne can present in many forms, ranging from mild congestion to inflamed lesions, and may affect the face, chest, back, and shoulders.

The role of oil production and pore congestion

Sebaceous glands produce sebum to lubricate and protect the skin. When oil production becomes excessive or poorly regulated, it can mix with dead skin cells and block pores.

Congested pores create an environment where bacteria can proliferate, increasing inflammation and leading to visible breakouts. Supporting balanced oil production is key to managing acne-prone skin.

Teenage acne and developmental changes

During adolescence, hormonal fluctuations — particularly increased androgens — stimulate oil production. This makes teenage skin especially prone to congestion and inflammation.

Teenage acne often affects the forehead, nose, chin, and cheeks and may improve as hormonal activity stabilises. Gentle, consistent skincare is essential during this stage to avoid irritation and long-term scarring.

Adult acne and persistent breakouts

Adult acne is increasingly common and may occur even in individuals who did not experience acne in their teenage years. These breakouts often appear on the lower face, jawline, and neck.

Factors such as stress, lifestyle changes, barrier disruption, and hormonal shifts play a significant role in adult-onset acne, making long-term management and barrier support particularly important.

Hormonal influences on acne

Hormonal fluctuations related to menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause, or endocrine imbalance can significantly influence breakout patterns. Hormonal acne often appears cyclically and may be deeper, more inflamed, and slower to resolve.

Because hormonal acne is influenced internally, topical care works best when paired with a gentle, supportive routine that minimises irritation and inflammation.

Lifestyle, stress, and acne-prone skin

Chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, which can increase oil production and inflammation in the skin. Lack of sleep, environmental exposure, and inconsistent routines further impair the skin’s ability to repair itself.

Supporting skin health through balanced lifestyle habits plays a key role in reducing breakout frequency and severity.

Diet and internal balance

Dietary factors may influence acne in some individuals. High-glycaemic foods, excessive sugar, and certain dairy products can contribute to inflammation and hormonal fluctuation.

Maintaining stable blood sugar levels and supporting gut health may indirectly benefit acne-prone skin by reducing systemic inflammation.

Inflammation, irritation, and acne progression

Over-exfoliation, harsh products, or aggressive treatments can compromise the skin barrier and worsen inflammation. This often leads to prolonged breakouts, delayed healing, and increased risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation.

Calming inflammation and protecting the skin barrier are essential steps in managing acne effectively.

Can acne-prone skin be supported with skincare?

Skincare plays a vital role in supporting acne-prone skin, but effectiveness depends on balance rather than intensity. A supportive approach focuses on:

• Gentle cleansing to prevent congestion

• Regulating oil without stripping the skin

• Reducing inflammation

• Supporting healthy skin renewal

• Strengthening the barrier

Consistency and patience are essential for long-term improvement.

Acne and Blemishes

Professional approaches to acne support

Professional treatments may be recommended for persistent or severe acne. These approaches are most effective when combined with a tailored home routine that supports barrier recovery and reduces ongoing inflammation.

Facials

Supporting acne-prone skin at homeAn effective daily routine includes:

• Mild, non-stripping cleansers

• Lightweight hydration

• Anti-inflammatory and barrier-supporting ingredients

• Consistent sun protection

• Avoiding unnecessary irritation

• Acne and Blemishes

dOre formulations are designed to support clarity while maintaining skin balance, combining advanced actives with botanically derived components for calm, long-term skin health.

Acne as part of overall skin health

Acne reflects how the skin responds to internal and external stressors. Addressing acne holistically improves not only breakouts but also skin resilience, tone, and comfort over time.

Clearer skin develops through consistency, balance, and skin-respectful care.

Acne-prone skin is complex and multifactorial, but with understanding and a supportive approach, it can be effectively managed. By addressing hormonal, lifestyle, dietary, and inflammatory influences while maintaining barrier health, the skin can move toward clarity and stability at any age.