Understanding Acne at Every Age

Jody Harm • June 11, 2026

Understanding Acne at Different Stages of Life


Woman with Grade 3/4 Acne

Acne is often associated with adolescence, but it can affect individuals at many stages of life. In fact, adult acne has become increasingly common, particularly among women.

Acne develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, skincare products, and lifestyle factors can all contribute to breakouts.

Teenage acne is often influenced by hormonal changes that increase oil production. Adult acne, however, may appear differently and is often associated with hormonal fluctuations, stress, or environmental factors.

Acne may present in several forms including blackheads, whiteheads, inflamed blemishes, or deeper cystic breakouts.

Clinical Insight

Acne treatment requires a carefully tailored approach that addresses the many stages and grades of breakouts. At The Skin Clinique, our comprehensive Acne Treatment Facials are tailored to the severity and presentation of the condition. Our clinical protocols range from targeted extraction-based facials for moderate acne to advanced corrective treatments designed for inflamed or cystic breakouts and revision of scar tissue. Each treatment is customized to address congestion, inflammation, and the underlying causes contributing to acne activity. Our customized protocols are designed to support acne-prone skin, including those undergoing Accutane or prescription treatments. Clarifying products such as Clarity Skin-Clarifying Serum help support congestion control while maintaining proper skin balance.

Maintaining a balanced skincare routine can help support clearer skin. Gentle cleansing, like our Clarify Cleanser, an appropriate exfoliation (everyone is different), Oil free moisturizer at night and sunscreen during the day, can go a long way towards management of acne. 

Professional skincare treatments can also play a significant role in managing acne-prone skin by getting to the root of the issue, managing bacteria, reducing grade of infectious acne, calm and restore health and integrity of the skin, revise scar tissue, prevent new from accumulating and helping maintain balanced skin function.

 

Understanding the underlying causes of acne can help individuals make more informed decisions about skincare and treatment options.

If you are struggling with persistent breakouts or inflammatory acne, a professional consultation can help determine the most appropriate treatment approach for your skin.


June Acne Awareness Month Special

To support our acne clients this month, we're including a complimentary COSMEDIX Clarifying & Cleansing Starter Kit (a $59 value) with any Acne Facial booked and completed during June.

This four-piece kit includes two of our most frequently recommended acne homecare products:

Clarify Cleanser — a gentle exfoliating cleanser designed to help remove excess oil, debris, and congestion without over-stripping the skin.

Clarity Serum — a corrective serum formulated to help support clearer-looking skin while addressing the appearance of blemishes and congestion.

Professional treatment is only part of successful acne management. Consistent homecare plays an important role in maintaining progress between appointments.

If you're struggling with breakouts, congestion, post-acne discoloration, or acne scarring, Acne Awareness Month is the perfect time to begin a customized treatment plan.

Clear Deep Cleansing Mask — a clay-based treatment that helps absorb excess oil, clarify pores, and leave skin feeling refreshed.

Shineless Oil-Free Moisturizer — a lightweight hydrator that helps maintain moisture balance without contributing excess oil to the skin.


Professional treatment is only part of successful acne management. Consistent homecare plays an important role in maintaining progress between appointments and supporting long-term skin health.

If you're struggling with breakouts, congestion, post-acne discoloration, or acne scarring, Acne Awareness Month is the perfect time to begin a customized treatment plan.


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