Breaking the Myth: Acne Is More Than Skin Deep

JUNE IS ACNE AWARENESS MONTH

Breaking the Myth: Acne Is More Than Skin Deep

What the latest science tells us — and how modern medicine is changing the game

June is Acne Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to talk about one of the most common—and often misunderstood—skin conditions we see in clinic.

Acne affects approximately 95% of people at some point in their lives. While many associate it with teenagers, adult acne is becoming increasingly common, particularly in women in their 20s, 30s, 40s and beyond.

At the Northern Institute of Facial Aesthetics, we understand that acne is more than just a skin condition. It can impact confidence, self-esteem, social interactions, and mental wellbeing. The good news? With modern medical treatments, advanced aesthetic procedures, and a holistic approach to skin health, acne can be successfully managed and long-term scarring can often be prevented.

 ACNE: THE NUMBERS

95%  of people experience acne at some point in their lives

54%  of women over 25 continue to have acne beyond their teenage years

3 in 4  people with acne report significant psychological impact

2026  research confirms acne is rising globally, especially in adult women

What Actually Causes Acne?

Acne develops when several factors occur simultaneously:

However, we now know acne is far more complex than simply having “oily skin.”

Recent research highlights the important role of the skin microbiome—the ecosystem of beneficial bacteria living on our skin. When this delicate balance becomes disrupted, inflammation can increase and acne can worsen.

We also consider internal factors that may contribute to acne, including:

Acne Is Not Just A Teenage Problem

One of the biggest trends we are seeing is the rise in adult female acne.

Many women experience breakouts around the jawline, chin, and lower face, often linked to hormonal fluctuations. Common triggers include:

Adult acne often requires a different treatment approach than teenage acne, which is why a personalised consultation is essential.

 The Different Types Of Acne

Not all acne is the same.

Comedonal Acne

Inflammatory Acne

Nodulocystic Acne

Hormonal Acne

Correct diagnosis is critical because each type responds differently to treatment.

 Why Early Treatment Matters

Many people believe acne is something they simply have to“grow out of.”

Unfortunately, untreated acne can lead to:

Research consistently shows that early intervention significantly reduces the risk of long-term scarring and improves treatment outcomes. Acne scars can be challenging to treat, so prevention is always preferable.

The Latest Medical Treatments For Acne

Modern acne management has advanced significantly over the past few years.

Prescription Topical Treatments

Current first-line treatments often include:

Newer prescription treatments such as clascoterone, a topical anti-androgen, offer promising options for hormonal acne by targeting hormone receptors directly within the skin. Recent evidence shows it can be an effective addition to acne treatment plans, particularly in adult females.

Oral Treatments

Depending on severity, medical treatment may include:

For severe acne, isotretinoin remains one of the most effective treatments available and can be life-changing when appropriately prescribed and monitored.

Advanced In-Clinic Acne Treatments

At Northern Institute for Facial Aesthetics, we often combine medical treatment with advanced skin therapies to achieve optimal results.

Professional Chemical Peels

Chemical peels can:

LED Light Therapy

Particularly useful for:

Microneedling

Microneedling stimulates collagen production and can improve:

Recent reviews continue to support microneedling as a safe and effective treatment for acne scars, especially when incorporated into a comprehensive treatment plan.

Radiofrequency Microneedling (not currently available at Northern Institute)

One of the most exciting developments in acne scar treatment is radiofrequency microneedling.

This treatment combines traditional microneedling with controlled radiofrequency energy to stimulate deeper collagen remodelling.

Recent systematic reviews demonstrate significant improvements in acne scarring with radiofrequency microneedling, particularly in patients seeking minimal downtime and suitability across different skin types.

Laser Treatments (not currently available at Northern Institute)

For more advanced scarring, laser treatments can provide significant improvements in:

Current evidence supports laser and energy-based devices as some of the most effective treatments available for acne scar management.

Our Approach at Northern Institute of Facial Aesthetics

By combining evidence-based medical treatments, advanced aesthetic procedures, and a holistic understanding of skin health, we help our patients achieve clearer, healthier, more confident skin. No two cases of acne are the same, and we don’t treat them as if they are.

A typical consultation with us will explore:

 From there, we build a personalised treatment plan to help you achieve your goals.

Can Acne Scars Really Be Improved

Yes—but realistic expectations are important.

No treatment can completely erase acne scars. However, modern combination approaches can achieve substantial improvement.

Depending on scar type, treatment options may include:

The best outcomes are achieved when treatment is tailored specifically to the type of scarring present.

Your Daily Skincare: What Really Matters

You don’t need a 12-step routine. You need the right 3 or 4 steps, consistently applied. Here’s what we recommend as a foundation:

The Acne-Prone Skin Essentials

And a word on social media: TikTok skincare trends can be genuinely harmful for acne-prone skin. Slugging, DIY extractions, toothpaste spot treatments, and over-layering actives are some of the most common causes of skin barrier damage we see in clinic. When in doubt, ask a professional.

The Psychological Impact: Let’s Not Ignore It

Three in four people with acne report a significant psychological impact. Depression, anxiety, social withdrawal and reduced self-esteem are well-documented consequences, and studies consistently show that the severity of psychological distress does not always correlate with the clinical severity of acne. Mild acne can be just as debilitating for some individuals as severe cystic disease for others.

We take this seriously. Our consultations are judgement-free. If acne is affecting your mental health, that is a legitimate and important part of your care. We will always ask about it.

Acne Myths We Need To Stop Believing

Myth 1: Acne is caused by poor hygiene

False. Acne is not caused by dirty skin.

Myth 2: Sun exposure clears acne

False. While acne may temporarily appear improved, UV damage often worsens pigmentation and inflammation long-term.

 Myth 3: Toothpaste helps spots

Definitely false. Toothpaste can cause irritation, burns and skin barrier damage.

Myth 4: Acne is only a teenage problem

False. Adult acne is increasingly common and can persist well into later adulthood.

Ready To Start Your Skin Journey?

If acne or acne scarring is affecting your confidence, our experienced team can help create a personalised treatment plan tailored specifically to your skin.

Because everyone deserves to feel comfortable in their own skin.

June is Acne Awareness Month — and we think awareness is just the beginning. Action is what changes things.