How to Know if You Have Acne Prone Skin [+ Useful Tips]

How to Know if You Have Acne Prone Skin

How to know if you have acne prone skin? Acne prone skin is more noticeable than any other skin type. The main signs of acne prone skin are frequent breakouts, excessive oil production, clogged or large visible pores, and redness. 

What if you don’t know the right type of skin and keep doing the wrong thing? It’s a nightmare buddy!

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
EltaMD Foaming Facial CleanserEltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser
  • Facial cleanser that is gentle enough for sensitive and acne prone skin.
  • With daily use, Foaming Facial Cleanser helps to protect skin from environmental stressors by 36%
  • The thick, rich foam gently cleanses leaving your skin feeling clean and balanced
  • Oil-free facial cleanser for all skin types. Sensitivity-free, paraben-free and pH-balanced face wash
Check Price
DERMA E Hydrating Gentle CleanserDERMA E Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
  • CLEANSING FACE WASH: This gentle moisturizing cleanser washes away dirt, oil and impurities with no drying, aging after-effects. The sulfate-free facial cleanser calms and soothes, and the papaya face wash leaves skin looking radiant
  • DEEPLY HYDRATES: Known as nature’s ‘moisture magnet’, hyaluronic acid delivers intense moisture, infusing skin with healthy hydration. Our hyaluronic acid facial cleanser helps plump, smooth, and rehydrate facial skin for a youthful-looking complexion.
  • ALL NATURAL FORMULA: Packed full of powerful natural ingredients: Papaya gently cleanses and removes dead skin cells; soothing Chamomile boosts skin’s natural glow; Vitamins A & E lock in moisture and improve skin texture; and Lemongrass tones and firms skin.
  • DAILY SKIN CARE: For best results, apply the Hyaluronic Acid face wash daily. Pump a small amount of the face cleanser into damp hands and massage over the face and neck. Rinse the foaming face wash thoroughly with water.
  • DERMA E: Clean beauty products that harness nature’s most effective ingredients. 100% vegan and cruelty-free, our eco-ethical skin care products contain no parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, petrolatum, lanolin, gluten, soy or GMOs, and are supplied in recyclable packaging.
Check Price
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel CleanserLa Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser
  • This gentle facial wash for oily skin with zinc pidolate effectively cleanses away dirt and oil while respecting skin's pH balance. Cleanses and purifies skin without over drying
  • Cleanses and purifies skin without over drying. Tested on acne-prone skin (non comedogenicity test) and won't clog pores. Respects skin's pH balance and safe for sensitive skin
  • Dermatologist Tested for Safety, Sensitive Skin Tested, Paraben Free, Allergy Tested, Non-comedogenic, Soap Free
  • Formulated with Zinc Pidolate: Known for its purifying properties to help remove excess oil
  • Cleanse morning and/or evening. Wet face with lukewarm water and apply small amount of gel, massaging the skin gently to form a rich lather. Rinse thoroughly with water
Check Price
PanOxyl Antimicrobial Acne Creamy WashPanOxyl Antimicrobial Acne Creamy Wash
  • Gentle formula contains 4% Benzoyl peroxide
  • Daily antimicrobial wash kills acne-causing bacteria on contact and lifts dirt from pores for a fresher, clearer you.
  • Ph balanced with 4 humectants and 3 emollients to increase hydration
  • Cleans and unclogs pores on face, chest and back
  • Clears existing acne fast and helps prevent new blemishes from forming
Check Price
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Fighting Face WashNeutrogena Oil-Free Acne Fighting Face Wash
  • 9.1-fluid ounce pump bottle of Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Face Wash with 2% salicylic acid acne treatment to help fight and prevent acne breakouts while cleansing skin
  • This unique formula gently cleanses deep down into pores with conditioners while salicylic acid acne treatment helps prevent future breakouts in one simple step
  • Oil-free cleanser features a clinically proven MicroClear technology to help boost delivery of salicylic acid, an acne medication to help clear up acne, pimples and blackheads
  • Residue- and oil-free formula is non-comedogenic so it won't clog pores. This daily acne face wash also rinses clean without over drying or irritating the skin to help unclog pores and treat acne even before it emerges
  • Use this acne face wash as part of a daily skincare routine. Consider this product if you've liked cleansers from Proactiv, Clearasil, Biore, Mountain Falls, CeraVe, Differin and AcneFree
Check Price

There is no doubt that everyone has different types of skin — dry, oily, sensitive or acne prone. And, every kind of skin needs a different type of treatment. 

Whatever, as per me, the most hectic skin is acne prone skin. Acne bumps are the worst. Treating them, suffering them, hiding them, and exposing them is a heartbreaking thing. Why am I saying that? I have gone through it.

The mistake that I made was not knowing that I had acne prone skin. Though I got bumps for a very long time, I ignored them. But you know what? I cured them! When you know you have acne prone skin, you treat it in the appropriate manner and cure it quickly. Puzzling is, how to know if you have acne prone skin. Worry not, because I am here for you. In this post, I will guide you on how to know if you have acne prone skin.

Get set gooo…

Table of Contents

What Is Acne?

acne 2

Acne is a skin disease consisting of blemishes that can occur on your face, neck, chest, shoulders, and back. Acne is very common during the teen years but it can affect you during adulthood as well. 

Dr. Gerstner, on the other hand, emphasizes that acne can strike at any age.

So let’s understand acne deeply…

To keep your hair and skin well lubricated, your body depends on sebaceous glands which just sit under your skin. These glands secrete an oily substance called sebum which coats your hair and skin to prevent them from drying out. Sebum travels up hair follicles and out through your pores onto the surface of your skin. Your hair follicles routinely shed dead skin cells, which sebum carries out of your body. 

When your body produces extra sebum and dead skin cells, they can stick together and clog your pores resulting in skin blemishes. It is not necessary as Michele Green, MD says;

“While it’s true that excess sebum production can contribute to the development of acne, you can be acne-prone without having oily skin.”

Afterwards, bacteria that normally exist in a small amount of your skin can flourish in the sebum in the clogged pores leading to inflammation. Depending on where the clog is located and if you have inflammation, acne may appear as a white head or pimple which are inflamed follicles clogged with pus or cysts.  

Best Acne Cleanser

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
EltaMD Foaming Facial CleanserEltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser
  • Facial cleanser that is gentle enough for sensitive and acne prone skin.
  • With daily use, Foaming Facial Cleanser helps to protect skin from environmental stressors by 36%
  • The thick, rich foam gently cleanses leaving your skin feeling clean and balanced
  • Oil-free facial cleanser for all skin types. Sensitivity-free, paraben-free and pH-balanced face wash
Check Price
DERMA E Hydrating Gentle CleanserDERMA E Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
  • CLEANSING FACE WASH: This gentle moisturizing cleanser washes away dirt, oil and impurities with no drying, aging after-effects. The sulfate-free facial cleanser calms and soothes, and the papaya face wash leaves skin looking radiant
  • DEEPLY HYDRATES: Known as nature’s ‘moisture magnet’, hyaluronic acid delivers intense moisture, infusing skin with healthy hydration. Our hyaluronic acid facial cleanser helps plump, smooth, and rehydrate facial skin for a youthful-looking complexion.
  • ALL NATURAL FORMULA: Packed full of powerful natural ingredients: Papaya gently cleanses and removes dead skin cells; soothing Chamomile boosts skin’s natural glow; Vitamins A & E lock in moisture and improve skin texture; and Lemongrass tones and firms skin.
  • DAILY SKIN CARE: For best results, apply the Hyaluronic Acid face wash daily. Pump a small amount of the face cleanser into damp hands and massage over the face and neck. Rinse the foaming face wash thoroughly with water.
  • DERMA E: Clean beauty products that harness nature’s most effective ingredients. 100% vegan and cruelty-free, our eco-ethical skin care products contain no parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, petrolatum, lanolin, gluten, soy or GMOs, and are supplied in recyclable packaging.
Check Price
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel CleanserLa Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser
  • This gentle facial wash for oily skin with zinc pidolate effectively cleanses away dirt and oil while respecting skin's pH balance. Cleanses and purifies skin without over drying
  • Cleanses and purifies skin without over drying. Tested on acne-prone skin (non comedogenicity test) and won't clog pores. Respects skin's pH balance and safe for sensitive skin
  • Dermatologist Tested for Safety, Sensitive Skin Tested, Paraben Free, Allergy Tested, Non-comedogenic, Soap Free
  • Formulated with Zinc Pidolate: Known for its purifying properties to help remove excess oil
  • Cleanse morning and/or evening. Wet face with lukewarm water and apply small amount of gel, massaging the skin gently to form a rich lather. Rinse thoroughly with water
Check Price
PanOxyl Antimicrobial Acne Creamy WashPanOxyl Antimicrobial Acne Creamy Wash
  • Gentle formula contains 4% Benzoyl peroxide
  • Daily antimicrobial wash kills acne-causing bacteria on contact and lifts dirt from pores for a fresher, clearer you.
  • Ph balanced with 4 humectants and 3 emollients to increase hydration
  • Cleans and unclogs pores on face, chest and back
  • Clears existing acne fast and helps prevent new blemishes from forming
Check Price
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Fighting Face WashNeutrogena Oil-Free Acne Fighting Face Wash
  • 9.1-fluid ounce pump bottle of Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Face Wash with 2% salicylic acid acne treatment to help fight and prevent acne breakouts while cleansing skin
  • This unique formula gently cleanses deep down into pores with conditioners while salicylic acid acne treatment helps prevent future breakouts in one simple step
  • Oil-free cleanser features a clinically proven MicroClear technology to help boost delivery of salicylic acid, an acne medication to help clear up acne, pimples and blackheads
  • Residue- and oil-free formula is non-comedogenic so it won't clog pores. This daily acne face wash also rinses clean without over drying or irritating the skin to help unclog pores and treat acne even before it emerges
  • Use this acne face wash as part of a daily skincare routine. Consider this product if you've liked cleansers from Proactiv, Clearasil, Biore, Mountain Falls, CeraVe, Differin and AcneFree
Check Price

What Is Acne Prone Skin?

acne 3

Basic sense, if you suffer acne outbreaks on a regular basis, you have acne-prone skin. This isn’t your typical pimple eruption, which occurs on occasion, but rather a common occurrence that affects your skin with acne and, in a few cases, irritated skin. 

As per Katie Rodan;

“If you notice big, cystic bumps every so often, you can be considered acne prone.”

Acne-prone skin is a common skin chronic problem that takes months, if not years, of therapy to maintain healthy skin. That suggests acne isn’t simply an adolescent problem! 

Moreover, sometimes you see many zits all on the forehead and they are caused by a fungus which is normally present on the skin and on the scalp. It tends to overgrow in times of humidity or stress and then spread slowly all over the face. 

Best Products For Treating Acne

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
  •  
Check Price
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing LotionCeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
  • [ OIL FREE NIGHT LOTION ] Use Cerave PM facial lotion as the last step in an evening skincare routine. If layering with an eye cream, moisturizer or facial serum, apply the Cerave night lotion after other product applications have been fully absorbed
  • [ OVERNIGHT MOISTURIZER ] Cerave’s PM face cream contains niacinamide to help calm the skin and uses MVE Technology to deliver hydration throughout the night. It also contains hyaluronic acid to help retain skin's moisture
  • [ ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES ] Ceramides are found naturally in the skin and make up 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier. All CeraVe products are formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier
  • [ DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED ] CeraVe Skincare is developed with dermatologists and has products suitable for dry skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, acne-prone, and more
  • [ GENTLE ON SKIN ] Fragrance free, paraben-free, oil free, non-comedogenic, and allergy-tested
Check Price
CETAPHIL Moisturizing LotionCETAPHIL Moisturizing Lotion
  • CETAPHIL BODY MOISTURIZING LOTION:Fast absorbing and non-greasy, lightweight body lotion provides instant and long lasting hydration for all skin types
  • INSTANT AND LONG LASTING 24 HOUR HYDRATION: Binds water to the skin, preventing moisture loss to hydrate and protect skin from dryness
  • IDEAL FOR USE ON THE ENTIRE BODY: Non-greasy, paraben free formula with no added fragrance absorbs quickly and is excellent for hands, feet, elbows and knees
  • COMPLETELY RESTORES THE SKIN BARRIER IN 1 WEEK: This unique formula is enriched with 6 moisturizers and skin essential vitamin E & provitamin B5 to provide continuous hydration
  • DESIGNED FOR SENSITIVE SKIN: All CETAPHIL products are effective yet non-irritating
Check Price
CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream CleanserCeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser
  • [ ACNE FACE WASH WITH BENZOYL PEROXIDE ] This benzoyl peroxide face wash helps clear acne, pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads from skin's surface and helps prevent new acne from forming & allows skin to heal
  • [ CREAM CLEANSER TO FOAMING CLEANSER ] This CeraVe face wash dispenses and applies as a soothing & creamy texture and transforms into a  foam as you lather into skin. Gently remove dirt and excess oil without leaving skin feeling stripped of moisture
  • [ HYDRATING ACNE WASH ] Formulated with hyaluronic Acid to help retain skin's natural moisture and niacinamide to help calm skin. Fragrance free and non-comedogenic
  • [ 3 ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES ] Ceramides are found naturally in the skin and make up 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier. All CeraVe products, formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II)to help maintain the skin’s natural barrier.
  • [ DEVELOPED WITH DERMATOLOGISTS ] CeraVe Skincare is developed with dermatologists and has products suitable for dry skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, acne-prone, and more.
Check Price
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Fighting Face WashNeutrogena Oil-Free Acne Fighting Face Wash
  • 9.1-fluid ounce pump bottle of Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Face Wash with 2% salicylic acid acne treatment to help fight and prevent acne breakouts while cleansing skin
  • This unique formula gently cleanses deep down into pores with conditioners while salicylic acid acne treatment helps prevent future breakouts in one simple step
  • Oil-free cleanser features a clinically proven MicroClear technology to help boost delivery of salicylic acid, an acne medication to help clear up acne, pimples and blackheads
  • Residue- and oil-free formula is non-comedogenic so it won't clog pores. This daily acne face wash also rinses clean without over drying or irritating the skin to help unclog pores and treat acne even before it emerges
  • Use this acne face wash as part of a daily skincare routine. Consider this product if you've liked cleansers from Proactiv, Clearasil, Biore, Mountain Falls, CeraVe, Differin and AcneFree
Check Price
Acne Treatment Differin Gel, 30 Day SupplyAcne Treatment Differin Gel, 30 Day Supply
  • Clears breakouts where they start (Deep in pores) and prevents new acne from forming, which ultimately restores skin's texture and tone
  • Differin works differently than other Acne treatments by normalizing skin cell turnover and effectively targets two primary causes of Acne, clogged pores and inflammation
  • Adapalene was created for superior tolerability compared to other prescription retinoid products not containing Adapalene; It is suitable for use as part of your morning or evening regimen
  • Water based formula, oil free, alcohol free, fragrance free, non comedogenic; Helps reduce the risk of scarring and Hyperpigmentation by treating Acne
  • In a clinical study, Differin gel provided up to 87 percent reduction in acne breakouts after 12 weeks, which will continue to improve with further use
Check Price

Types Of Acne Prone Skin

Since there are many types of acne, I will tell you the most common ones.

types acne

1. Comedones

So the first type of acne that many people commonly have is comedones. It is basically of two types, open comedones — whiteheads, and closed comedones — blackheads. This is a result of the pores getting clogged. 

Things to remember, comedogenic products are those that have the potential to cause comedones. Non Comedogenic makeup is much less inclined to clog pores and lead to acne.

2. Acne Vulgaris

Acne vulgaris sounds like comedones evil twin and to be honest. It is caused by deeper blockage of the pores.

While Vulgaris sounds as vulgar it actually isn’t. well, get it simple, it means common and this makes sense since acne vulgaris is the most common type of acne. There are three different forms of it, mild,  moderate and severe.

It is common in adolescent years when hormones are changing. It happens when the pores get clogged and inflamed because of sebaceous units, which in layman’s terms means the hair follicle and sebaceous gland. 

Acne vulgaris is a bit harder to treat; it needs benzoyl peroxide anti-inflammatory products and other topical treatments.

3. Adult Female Acne

You read that right ladies!

Just when you thought you could kiss acne when waving off your teen you might be wrong as these little monsters make an appearance in adulthood again. 

Notice, that Adult acne is most common in females than in males because females go through more hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. 

Don’t worry, it doesn’t happen to everybody. It only depends on your body and the changes it undergoes.

4. Papules

Papules are inflammatory comedones that develop little red or pink lumps on the skin. This sort of pimple may hurt to the touch. 

However, touching or squeezing can aggravate the irritation and cause scars. The presence of a significant lot of papules may suggest moderate to extreme acne.

5. Nodules

Nodules are huge, inflammatory pimples that have a solid feel to them. They form deep beneath the skin and are frequently unpleasant. Because nodules might scar, they should be cured by a dermatologist.

6. Acne Mechanica

Acne Mechanica is produced by heat, rubbing, and compression against the skin, which is frequently induced by the usage of sports equipment such as a helmet or baseball cap. 

Since it occurs commonly among athletes, it is sometimes referred to as “sports-induced acne.” Wearing absorbent material under athletic apparel and washing soon after an activity is two defensive methods.

Common Symptoms Of Acne

Symptoms

So, the following symptoms can help you identify if you have acne prone skin. Mind them!

1. Clogged Pores

The pores on your skin can and will get blocked at some point. Any dirt, debris, and anything else from the big, evil world can sneak in there and ruin your vibe. Clogged pores can cause the skin to seem lifeless. 

2. Redness

Redness from pimples can develop due to hormone swings or simply pressure to the follicles, which causes an inflammatory reaction. Red and white blood cells are sent by your body to battle enemies of your epidermis. 

The final outcome? An unpleasant and painful zit ringed by redness that is sensitive when touched. Ugh!

3. Excessive Oil Production

Although this might be a distinct skin type, any skin can shift from dry to oily as acne fluctuates over time. Our skin has a range! All skin requires a proper oil balance, but sebum is essential for skin health—too much sebum may cause oily skin and clogged pores, leading to acne. 

Oily skin is caused by sebaceous glands producing too much oil, and excess oil causes blockage. Far too oily skin is distinguished by larger pores, too much shine all day, and a heavier skin and greasy texture. 

4. Large Pores

The size of your pores is often genetically determined, we understand, it’s weird. Aside from genetics, the most prevalent causes of big pores are excessive sebum production and a loss of skin suppleness. 

Chronic acne, hormonal variations, UV injury, alcoholism, radiodermatitis, and vitamin A deficiency are all contributors.

What To Do When You Have Acne Prone Skin? 

prevent

You know what when people get severe acne, they literally have to get steroids injected. So, it’s better to treat your acne right before it becomes a horrible experience. The things you have to focus on are;

1. Stay Hydrated

Water is required for all biological activities, including the liver, which regulates hormone synthesis. Hormones contribute to acne by boosting the production of sebum, which is why acne is common among teens during hormone surges. 

Drinking water will help you stay healthy. Drink two litres of water every day, or more if you exercise.

2. Never Ever Pop Your Pimples

 When you initially picked at a pimple, it bled, ached, and then dried out. However, guess what? It reappears, this time much larger. It is like a tragedy waiting to happen.

When you burst a pimple, you are forcing the stuff of the pimple, including germs, oil, and debris, out. It causes a rip and a new wound. Instead of resolving the issue, it causes the ugly wound to gooey substance down the pimple hole, potentially resulting in a larger pimple.

DON’T TOUCH YOUR PIMPLES, THAT’S IT!

3. Avoid Makeup

Wear no make-up if possible, since it may cause your pores to get even more clogged. If you must disguise blemishes and scars, choose a mineral-based foundation and concealer that does not include extra oils. The natural ingredient will not irritate or inflame your skin, and it is less prone to clog your pores.

4. Don’t Ignore Moisturiser

Because moisturisers assist regulate sebum production, you should include one in your routine. Or else, you will have itching and stretching around the acne. I’ve had the greatest difficulty with moisturisers: it took me several months to locate one that didn’t block my pores while yet giving appropriate hydration.

I would recommend a gel-like moisturiser with hyaluronic acid, B5, or squalane. They have a light, non-greasy feel.

5. Eat Right Food 

A variety of foods, including almonds, blueberries, avocados, and kidney beans, may aid in decreasing and avoid inflammation. This may reduce the likelihood of your skin developing unpleasant and irritated patches, which may make life hell.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What skin type is more prone to acne?

Acne may affect anybody, but persons with oily skin are more prone to breakouts. If you have oily skin, you may have enlarged pores and acne blemishes, and be more prone to acne outbreaks.

What causes acne prone?

Sebum cannot exit the pores when oil, dead skin cells, and germs block the follicles. This results in acne.

Is acne prone skin dry or oily?

Because acne-prone skin is oily, it might be enticing to use astringents and facial moisturizers till your face gets dry. However, do not. Irritated skin is dry skin. You risk developing more acne if you irritate your skin.

How do I stop acne prone skin?

Taking the right treatment can cure acne prone skin.
-Wash your face with the right cleanser
-Use salicylic or benzoyl acid-based products
-Drink and sleep enough
-Don’t pick your pimples
-Don’t ignore SPF or moisturiser

What food cause acne?

Too much sugary foods can cause acne. However, avoid sodas, white bread and rice, and excessive consumptions of carbohydrates. 

Now, It’s Your Turn! 

Although annoying, acne-prone skin may be comforted and cured! You are NEVER alone if you suffer from acne. You can treat it with the correct coaching, lifestyle choices, and personal care!

However, acne sometimes happens in certain persons owing to hormonal or genetic causes. If this describes you, it can also be cured. There are actions you can do to avoid and cure it, such as utilising acne treatments and skin care products, taking certain vitamins, eating a nutritious diet, and managing stress. And for this, it is very necessary to know that YOU HAVE ACNE PRONE SKIN. And yes, if you have suffered from an acne journey please do tell us and help others in the comment section how you overcome that. 

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