Acne:
understand it, treat it, soothe it
Whether you're a teenager, an adult, or your skin is simply acting up for no apparent reason, spots, redness and blemishes can quickly become a source of stress. We answer all your questions — with kindness and common sense.
What exactly is acne?
Acne, or acne vulgaris to give it its scientific name, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects the hair follicles and sebaceous glands. It is extremely common: nearly 80% of teenagers and around 25% of adults will suffer from it at some point in their lives.
Acne develops through four main mechanisms, often combined: hyperseborrhoea (excess sebum production), hyperkeratinisation (a build-up of dead cells in the pores), the proliferation of the bacterium Cutibacterium acnes, and local inflammation linked to the immune response.
Why do I have acne?
Hormones — androgens stimulate sebum production. During puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy or when stopping hormonal contraception, these fluctuations can throw your skin off balance.
Genetics — if one of your parents had severe acne, you are 2 to 4 times more likely to have it too.
Bacteria — Cutibacterium acnes is naturally present on your skin. When a pore is clogged, it becomes trapped and triggers an inflammatory reaction.
Diet, sugar and dairy
When you eat fast-acting sugars or dairy products, your blood glucose rises quickly. Your pancreas releases insulin, which stimulates IGF-1 — a growth factor that boosts sebum production and encourages the proliferation of keratinocytes.
Chronic stress and sleep
Chronic stress activates the HPA axis and releases cortisol, which stimulates the sebaceous glands, weakens the skin barrier and promotes inflammation. Lack of sleep slows down skin regeneration and keeps cortisol levels high.
How to treat acne with Korean skincare
Korean skincare is particularly well suited to acne-prone skin: formulated to be gentle yet effective, it targets the causes of acne without damaging the skin barrier. Key actives: niacinamide, BHA, centella asiatica.
It's also essential to cleanse your skin thoroughly every day, avoid comedogenic products and never forget your sun protection — UV rays make post-acne marks worse.
- Cleanser — COSRX Low pH Gel Cleanser — 16,90€
- Exfoliant — COSRX AHA/BHA Toner — 28,90€
- SPF — COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream — 28,90€
- View the full acne-prone skin collection →
- Acne isn't a question of hygiene: it's a complex medical condition.
- Hormones, genetics, diet and stress are the main triggers.
- Never squeeze a spot: you risk scarring and hyperpigmentation.
- Korean actives (BHA, niacinamide, centella) are among the most effective gentle options.
- SPF is essential to stop post-acne marks from getting worse.
Your skin deserves patience, care… and lots of love. Discover our anti-blemish selection →
