Causes and the Best Skin Care for Acne

Acne is a common skin condition that affects many people of all skin types and ages, from teenagers to adults. It occurs when hair follicles under the skin become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to the formation of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. 

What causes acne?

Several factors can contribute to the development of acne, including hormonal changes, genetics, and certain medications. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as diet, stress, and skin care habits can also play a role. 

How to manage and prevent breakouts

There are several steps you can take to manage and prevent breakouts. One of the most important things you can do is establish a consistent skin care routine that includes gentle cleansing, exfoliation, special treatments, and moisturizing (see our Skin Care Guide for the best regimen).

But another very important factor is to use quality products! A quality product is one that is referred to as professional-grade and/or small-batch and botanical. This tends to be different than your typical over-the-counter products that are mass produced. (All Skintessence products are professional-grade, small-batch, botanical blends that are chock-full of the best ingredients.)

It's also important to avoid picking or squeezing pimples, as this can lead to scarring and further breakouts.

The best products for acne care

The Skintessence Influencer Collection is an absolute superstar in helping people manage their acne. If you’re new to Skintessence, try the Influencer Starter Set (Cleanser, Toner, Moisturizer) or the Influencer Full Face Set (Cleanser, Mask, Toner, Eye Treatment, Serum, and Moisturizer). Our customers rave about these products because they work! They’re small-batch, filler-free, and chock-full of effective ingredients for acne management:

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Blemish Rescue Moisturizer | Anti-bacterial Azulene + Ginseng

$42.00

• Our Clarifying Cleanser cleanser contains a trifecta of ingredients that are masterful at combating acne-prone skin caused by the overproduction of oil and environmental stress. Alpha Hydroxy (AHA) is a powerful exfoliant derived from natural sugar sources. Beta Hydroxy (BHA) is instrumental in improving skin texture. This product thoroughly cleanses and removes makeup and environmental impurities; natural enzymes help to exfoliate without stripping the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

• Our Essential Exfoliation Mask, used twice a week, contains pineapple + papaya enzymes. These are the absolute superstars at naturally exfoliating your skin! Micro Jojoba spheres release moisture and nourishment, leaving your skin luminous.

• Our Essential Toner with 5% glycolic derived from natural sources plus oxygenating ginseng is a powerhouse to tone and firm your skin, plus refine pores. 

• After using your favorite serums (we recommend the Essential-C Eye Serum for the eye area and Rockstar Retinol for the rest of the face), use our famous Blemish Rescue Moisturizer with anti-bacterial azulene + ginseng. Acne-prone customers swear by this moisturizer not only for its anti-bacterial properties but also because it balances the skin's natural oil production. Hops, rosemary, sage and ginseng help to refine, tone, and tighten while azulene and allantoin soothe, heal, and protect from moisture loss.

• If you have combination skin, consider using the Balancing Superfruit Moisturizer instead (or alternate each day).

In addition to using the very best skin care formulated to help with acne, there are several other lifestyle changes that can help as well. Eating a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and plenty of water can help reduce inflammation and promote clear skin. Regular exercise and stress management techniques such as yoga or meditation can also reduce stress levels and improve overall skin health.