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How To Get Rid Of Acne

Clearer Skin Starts with Understanding

Acne is one of the most common skin concerns in the world - and one of the most misunderstood. If you’re breaking out, you’re not alone, and more importantly, you’re not stuck with it.


At Skin Ritual Newmarket, as acne specialists we take a science-based, personalised approach to treating acne. Let's talk about what causes it, what actually works, and how to calm your skin safely.


What Is Acne and Why Does It Happen?

Acne forms when oil (sebum) and dead skin cells create a "plug" or blockage within a pore. This is usually in combination with bacterial overgrowth within the pore, and inflammation.


Acne can appear as blackheads, whiteheads, papules, or deep cysts - usually on the face, neck. chest, or back.


Common triggers include:

  • Hormones: Androgen fluctuations increase oil production.

  • Genetics: Some people are simply predisposed to acne.

  • Lifestyle factors: Diet, stress, and poor sleep can all influence breakouts.

  • Skincare misuse: Harsh scrubs or stripping cleansers damage the barrier and cause inflammation and dysfunction


Many people ask, is acne genetic? Yes, it can run in families. For teens, hormonal surges are the primary driver, while adult acne often relates to stress or hormonal imbalance.


👉 Learn more about hormonal triggers in our PCOS & Acne article.


How to Get Rid of Acne (Safely & Effectively)

There’s no single cure, but acne can be managed and improved with consistency, barrier repair, and targeted actives.


1. Build a Simple, Supportive Routine

  • Cleanse gently - many people with acne opt for active, harsh and drying cleansers in an effort to "clean away the oil" - in reality, this approach results in dryness, sensitivity, and skin barrier issues. Less is more when it comes to cleanser, and simple and gentle is always best.


  • Avoid over-exfoliating. Too much friction or acid strips the skin’s protective barrier, again resulting in dryness, sensitivity, and ultimately, more inflammation.


  • Moisturise even oily skin. Dehydrated skin over-produces oil, and moisturiser helps to support the skin barrier.


  • Always wear SPF 30+. Sun exposure worsens inflammation and post-acne marks and scars.


2. Introduce Evidence-Based Actives

  • Salicylic acid (BHA) unclogs pores and reduces oil. It's also antibacterial and anti-inflammatory.

  • Niacinamide calms redness and strengthens the skin barrier.

  • Vitamin A (retinoids) normalise cell turnover and prevent new blockages. Read our Vitamin A guide for safe usage.



3. Address Hormonal or Persistent Acne

If you notice cyclical breakouts around your jawline or chin, you may be dealing with hormonal acne. Lifestyle support (stress regulation, balanced diet, sleep) helps - but targeted topical or in-clinic treatments often make the biggest difference.


At Skin Ritual, we offer acne-focused treatments including:


  • Chemical peels to control and treat active breakouts, reduce oil production, and stabilise the skin. Chemical peels also help to address scarring.

  • Aerolase Neo Elite laser for active breakouts and redness, and to treat scarring.


Often a combination of the two therapies works best for active acne.



When to Seek Professional Help

If breakouts are painful, leave scars, or persist despite good home care, it’s time for a professional plan. A skin therapist can help to determine the cause of your acne, your triggers, and which treatments will most effectively treat it.


Your Skin Ritual consultation includes:

  • A detailed skin analysis

  • Discussion of triggers (diet, stress, skincare, hormones)

  • A tailored treatment + home-care plan


Book your consultation to begin your personalised acne journey.


Preventing Future Breakouts

Acne management isn’t only about treatment - it’s also about prevention.


  • Stay consistent. Frequent routine changes destabilise the skin and can irritate the skin barrier. Give your products time to start working - usually 4-6 weeks at least.

  • Avoid picking or squeezing. It increases inflammation and increases scarring.

  • Prioritise barrier health. Gentle hydration and consistent SPF are non-negotiable.

  • Manage stress. Cortisol spikes oil production and delays healing.


You can explore the relationship between stress, sebum, and inflammation in our Sebum Composition & Acne and Dairy & Acne posts.


Is Acne Permanent?

No. Acne is temporary, but untreated breakouts can leave lasting marks and scars. By calming inflammation early and supporting healing, you can prevent the majority of scars before they form.


For those already dealing with scars, see our companion guide: How to Get Rid of Acne Scars


FAQs

What causes acne? Clogged pores, excess oil, and inflammation - influenced by hormones, stress, and genetics.

Why do I keep getting acne in the same spot?That pore may be chronically inflamed or repeatedly blocked. Consistency with treatment helps break the cycle.

How to get rid of acne fast?Spot treatments with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can help, but sustainable clearing requires addressing the root cause.

Is acne genetic? Yes - family history can increase risk, but environment and skincare matter too.

Is acne an infection? Not exactly. Bacteria are involved, but acne is primarily an inflammatory process.


The Takeaway

Acne is complex - but it’s manageable with the right knowledge, products, and professional guidance. Every skin type can be calmed and cleared when treated with patience and care.


Ready to start your clear-skin plan? Book your consultation at Skin Ritual Newmarket to receive a customised strategy to treat your acne.

 
 
 

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