Acne is incredibly common in the teenage years, and the main reason is puberty.

During puberty, hormone levels rise — especially hormones called androgens. These hormones stimulate the skin’s oil glands to produce more oil, known as sebum. That extra oil can contribute to clogged pores and breakouts.

But acne isn’t caused by oil alone. Breakouts develop through a combination of excess oil, clogged pores, bacteria and inflammation. This is why acne is more complicated than simply having “oily” or “dirty” skin.

In fact, acne does not mean the skin isn’t being cleaned properly. Scrubbing harder or constantly washing the face can irritate already sensitive skin. Dermatology guidelines recommend gentle cleansing with products suitable for acne-prone skin rather than harsh soaps or aggressive cleansing. Teenage acne can also vary enormously from person to person. Some teenagers experience only occasional spots, while others develop persistent or more inflamed acne. Hormones are a major factor, but genetics and the skincare products being used can also play a role.

The right skincare routine can help support breakout-prone skin, but consistency is important. Constantly changing products or trying to strip the skin of all its natural oil is rarely the answer. If acne becomes painful, severe, starts causing scarring or is having a significant emotional impact, professional advice from a doctor or dermatologist is important.

At Zanna, we believe teenage skin doesn’t need a harsh or overcomplicated routine. Understanding why acne happens is the first step towards caring for young, changing skin with a little more patience — and a lot more care.

Scientific references

• National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) — Acne vulgaris: management, Guideline NG198
• American Academy of Dermatology — Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris