Understanding Acne: Grades, Causes, Care & Recovery

Fatima Gomez
Aug 5
3 min read

Acne can be frustrating, painful, and confidence-shaking — but with the right knowledge, it’s manageable. At Lore Beauty, we believe that understanding your skin is the first step to achieving a healthy, balanced complexion.

How Acne Happens

Acne forms when hair follicles become clogged with excess sebum (oil), dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes).This blockage can cause:

Whiteheads – clogged pores sealed under the skin.
Blackheads – clogged pores open to the surface, oxidising to appear dark.
Papules & pustules – inflamed, red spots (pustules have pus).
Cysts & nodules – deep, painful lumps beneath the skin.

Hormones, stress, diet, incorrect skincare, and even environmental factors can trigger or worsen acne.

The Different Grades of Acne

Grade 1: Mild – mostly blackheads and whiteheads, occasional small pimples.

Grade 2: Moderate – frequent papules and pustules, mild inflammation.

Grade 3: Severe – more widespread inflammation, painful lesions, possible scarring.

Grade 4: Cystic – deep, painful nodules and cysts, high risk of scarring and pigmentation.

What to Avoid

Over-washing – can strip natural oils, triggering more oil production.
Harsh scrubs – can cause micro-tears and worsen inflammation.
Touching/picking – spreads bacteria, increases risk of infection, pigmentation, and scarring.
Using comedogenic products – can clog pores.
Sleeping with makeup – traps dirt, oil, and bacteria.

Caring for Acne by Skin Type

Oily Skin

Why it happens: Overactive sebaceous glands produce excess oil.
Best ingredients:
- Salicylic Acid – penetrates oil to clear pores.
- Niacinamide – reduces sebum production & redness.
- Clay (Kaolin/Bentonite) – absorbs excess oil.
Tips: Gentle gel cleansers, oil-free moisturisers, weekly clay masks.

Dry Skin

Why it happens: Even dry skin can get acne due to buildup of dead skin cells and irritation.
Best ingredients:
- Lactic Acid – gently exfoliates without over-drying.
- Hyaluronic Acid – keeps skin hydrated.
- Squalane – balances oil without clogging pores.
Tips: Cream-based cleansers, avoid foaming washes, never skip moisturiser.

Sensitive Skin

Why it happens: Acne triggers more redness and irritation.
Best ingredients:
- Aloe Vera – calms inflammation.
- Azelaic Acid – antibacterial, anti-inflammatory.
- Centella Asiatica – supports healing.
Tips: Avoid fragrance, alcohol, and high-strength acids. Patch test all products.

How Long Does Acne Take to Clear?

With the right skincare routine, mild acne may improve in 4–8 weeks. Moderate to severe acne can take 3–6 months or longer, especially if hormonal or cystic. Consistency and patience are key.

Post-Acne Side Effects

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): Dark spots after healing.
Redness: Caused by dilated blood vessels in the healing area.
Scarring: From picking or deep cystic acne.
Bacterial infections: If the skin barrier is broken by squeezing or scratching.

FAQs About Acne

1. Can diet cause acne?

Some people notice breakouts from high-sugar foods or dairy, but it’s not the same for everyone. A balanced diet helps skin health overall.

2. Is acne only for teenagers? No — adult acne is common, especially in women due to hormonal changes, stress, and lifestyle factors.

3. Should I exfoliate if I have acne? Yes, but gently. Chemical exfoliants like salicylic or lactic acid are better than scrubs.

4. Can facials help acne? Yes, professional facials tailored for acne-prone skin can help reduce breakouts and improve skin texture. At Lore Beauty, we use gentle, effective products to avoid irritation.

5. When should I see a dermatologist? If acne is severe, painful, or not improving after consistent home care, it’s time to seek professional medical help.

💡 At Lore Beauty, we tailor treatments to your skin type and acne grade to support healing without damaging your skin barrier. Book your personalised skin consultation today.