Managing Acne
Acne isn’t just a teenage problem. Many people, especially women, experience breakouts well into their 30s, 40s, and even during menopause.
What Causes Acne?
Acne forms when pores get blocked by oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria like Cutibacterium acnes, triggering inflammation. Hormones play a big role — especially during periods, pregnancy, menopause, or in conditions like PCOS. Jawline breakouts often point to hormonal acne.
Important note: Rosacea is common in Ireland and often confused with acne. Redness, flushing, and pustules are key features. Many people actually have both.
Common Acne Triggers
- Friction or pressure (helmets, masks, instruments)
- Cosmetics and hair products
- Supplements – Biotin, B6, and whey protein may worsen acne
- Diet – Skimmed milk and high sugar diets are linked to breakouts
- Medications – Steroids, lithium, certain contraceptives
- Stress – Makes everything worse, including your skin
Over-the-Counter Heroes
- Cleanser: Use salicylic acid-based washes or gentler ones if they’re aggravating your skin.
- Moisturiser: Hydrated skin heals faster.
- Benzoyl Peroxide: Kills acne bacteria
- Salicylic + Glycolic Acid
- Azelaic Acid: Calms inflammation and brightens skin
- Sulfur Masks
- Supplements: Zinc and omegas can support skin health
- LED Light therapy: Blue light is known to help zap acne, but at times may also increase your risk of pigmentation so get advice. Red and blue light are an excellent combination, but must be done consistently.
Prescription Options
- Topicals: Retinoids like adapalene (Differin), tretinoin, or combos like Epiduo or Duac.
- Antibiotics: Doxycycline (short-term), but watch for sun sensitivity.
- Hormonal: Birth control pills or spironolactone can help hormonal acne.
- Isotretinoin (Roaccutane): A game-changer for severe acne — but requires close monitoring and is not safe in pregnancy.
Don’t Wait to Get Help
Acne can leave scars and pigmentation, but it also takes a toll mentally. If OTC treatments aren’t enough, talk to your GP or a dermatologist. You deserve clear skin and confidence. This is also true for teenagers. Do not wait for them to grow out of it but help them deal with it.
More Tips from the Blog
Let’s Chat Rosacea
Rosacea Rosacea - if you’ve got it, you know the struggle. Redness, flushing, spots that look like acne but definitely aren’t, stinging skin, even gritty-feeling eyes. And in some advanced cases,...
Let’s Talk Menopause — What’s Actually Going On and Why It Matters
Menopause Menopause isn’t just the end of your periods. It’s a major life transition, and a great time to look after you. So What Is Menopause? Menopause happens when your ovaries stop producing...
Thinking About Injectables but Feeling Nervous? You’re Not Alone
Injectables Lately, you might have been thinking about trying injectables. Maybe smoothing a few lines, refreshing tired eyes, or adding a little volume. But if you’re anything like me when I first...
Why Are Peptides Vital in Our Skincare Routine?
Why Are Peptides Vital in Our Skincare Routine? Peptides are short chains of amino acids which are the building blocks of proteins. In skincare, peptides act as messengers that signal your skin to...
Clearing the Bumps: Skincare Tips for Beating Pregnancy Acne
Pregnancy Acne & Skincare Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can lead to flare-ups of skin conditions like acne, rosacea, pigmentation, and periorificial dermatitis or even cause them to...
Treating Hair Loss in Men and Women: A Complete Guide
Hair loss and can be distressing regardless of age or gender. The good news is that a wide range of treatment options exist — from over-the-counter products and prescription medications to advanced in-clinic procedures. However, before starting any treatment, it’s vital to rule out underlying medical causes with a healthcare professional.