Acne & Oiliness

36 min read

Understanding Acne & Oily Skin

Acne and oily skin result from excess sebum (oil) production, which clogs pores and encourages bacterial growth. This leads to blackheads, whiteheads, cystic acne, and visible oiliness. Hormonal changes, stress, lifestyle habits, and environmental factors can further exacerbate breakouts and disrupt skin balance.

⬑ Acne breakouts

⬑ Congested pores

Conditions Across Life Stages

Adult-Onset or Hormonal Acne

Common in adults aged 25 and above, hormonal acne appears as deep, inflamed cysts or nodules, mainly on the jawline, chin, and cheeks. These breakouts are persistent, painful, and slow to heal, often leading to scarring and hyperpigmentation.

Triggers include hormonal changes, stress, poor diet, and sleep deprivation, increasing oil production and recurring breakouts. Over-cleansing or harsh skincare can weaken the barrier, causing rebound oiliness and sensitivity, making gentle, barrier-focused care essential.

⬑ Painful cystic acne along the jawline and chin

⬑ Persistent, inflamed breakouts leading to scarring

Adolescent Acne

Affecting up to 85% of individuals aged 10–24, adolescent acne is triggered by puberty-related hormonal surges, leading to excess sebum, clogged pores, and bacterial overgrowth. This results in blackheads, whiteheads, pustules, and cystic acne, mainly on oil-prone areas like the forehead, nose, chin, chest, and back.

Diet, stress, sweat buildup, and improper skincare can worsen breakouts, increasing the risk of scarring and blemishes. Early intervention with sebum-regulating, anti-inflammatory, and microbiome-balancing treatments helps prevent acne and restore clear, healthy skin.

⬑ Oily skin and clogged pores common in puberty

⬑ Hormonal acne with blackheads, whiteheads, and pustules

Skincare & Makeup-Induced Acne

Certain skincare and makeup products, especially those with comedogenic ingredients, heavy oils, or harsh actives, can clog pores, disrupt the skin barrier, or over-strip natural oils, leading to breakouts. Thick foundations and occlusive primers trap bacteria and sebum, while inefficient removal leaves residue that worsens congestion.

Overuse of exfoliants, strong treatments, or heavy moisturisers can cause sensitivity and irritation. Layering incompatible products may further weaken the barrier, increasing breakouts. Proper cleansing, ingredient selection, and balance help prevent skincare and makeup-related acne.

⬑ Skin irritation and acne from over-exfoliation and harsh actives

⬑ Breakouts caused by daily use of makeup, mixing skincare products, heavy creams, oils, or occlusive ingredients

Diet-Related Acne

Certain dietary triggers like high-glycaemic foods, dairy, and processed sugars can stimulate hormonal fluctuations and excess oil production, leading to acne flare-ups.

Foods rich in refined carbs, saturated fats, or artificial additives may contribute to inflammation and imbalanced sebum levels, worsening breakouts. Balancing nutrition with skin-supporting foods like antioxidants, omega fatty acids, and hydration can help maintain clearer skin.

⬑ Acne flare-ups linked to dairy, sugar, and processed foods

⬑ Inflammatory diet patterns affecting skin clarity, sebaceous (oil) balance, and confidence

Environment-Induced Acne

Environmental factors like air pollution, humidity, dust, and home renovations can introduce toxins, debris, and irritants, leading to clogged pores and inflammation.

Frequent travel, climate changes, or exposure to harsh air-conditioning and heating can disrupt the skin’s natural balance, increasing oil production, dryness, and breakouts. Maintaining a protective skincare routine and adapting to environmental stressors can help minimise acne triggers.

⬑ Climate changes, humidity, and travel-related acne flare-ups

⬑ Pollution and dust buildup clogging pores, triggering skin irritation, breakouts, and redness

Pregnancy Acne

Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy increase sebum production, leading to clogged pores, inflammation, and breakouts, often on the face, chest, and back. Rising androgen levels can trigger blackheads, whiteheads, and cystic acne, especially in the first and second trimesters.

Factors like stress, diet, prenatal supplements, and skincare changes can worsen acne, making it more persistent. Gentle, pregnancy-safe treatments that regulate sebum and reduce inflammation help manage breakouts while maintaining skin health.

⬑ Pregnancy hormones triggering breakouts

⬑ Increased sebum production causing clogged pores and acne bacterial infection

Common Conditions

Acne Breakouts

Red, inflamed pustules or cysts form when pores become clogged with oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, poor diet, genetics, and improper skincare are common causes, leading to visible irritation, discomfort, and potential scarring.

⬑ Inflamed pustules on the cheeks

⬑ Cystic acne along the jawline

Congested Pores

Enlarged pores or blackheads occur when pores become clogged with dirt, oil, and dead skin cells, leading to an uneven skin texture and a diminished overall appearance. Common causes include excess oil production, improper skincare, environmental pollutants, and hormonal fluctuations.

⬑ Blackheads around the nose

⬑ Congested pores on the forehead

Post-Acne Marks & Blemishes

After acne heals, it often leaves behind post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) or hyperpigmentation (PIH) — dark or red marks that persist long after breakouts disappear. These marks usually take a very long time to fade but can be prolonged by sun exposure, skin irritation, and inflammation.

⬑ Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE)

⬑ Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)

Post-Acne Scarring

Deep or inflamed acne lesions can damage the skin’s underlying structure, leading to permanent scars. Common types include atrophic (indented) scars, hypertrophic (raised) scars, and keloids, often caused by severe cystic acne or improper handling, such as picking or squeezing.

⬑ Hypertrophic (raised) scars and pus infection

⬑ Atrophic (indented) scars caused by delayed management of acne infection

Excess Sebaceous (Oil) Production

An overly shiny complexion, especially in the T-zone, often indicates overactive sebaceous glands, leading to clogged pores and acne breakouts. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, genetics, diet, daily use of makeup and heavy skincare products can further stimulate oil production, making the skin greasy and more prone to congestion (clogged pores).

⬑ Overactive sebaceous activity in the T-zone

⬑ Excess sebum production leading to enlarged pores, and uneven skin texture

We're here to help you manage your skin concerns.

At Folke®, we address skin concerns at the root for lasting results. Our painless, non-invasive, customised plant-tech approach protects your skin and health, delivering visible, personalised improvements backed by over 20 years of expertise.

Disclaimer

At Folke®, we offer treatments and skincare products designed to support skin health, with results varying based on factors like skin type, conditions, lifestyle, and treatment adherence. Our information is based on in-clinic observations, client experiences, and published academic materials. While claims and comparisons to mainstream therapies reflect general research, reactions to treatments can vary. Not every patient will experience the same results, and some may tolerate treatments better than others. Folke®, its founder Charles Ng, staff, and representatives are not responsible for discrepancies or differing opinions. This content is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While Folke® is committed to high-quality treatments and products for skin concerns, individual outcomes may vary. The effectiveness of our treatments depends on various factors, and Folke® cannot guarantee specific results for every client. We encourage clients to consult with our professionals to set realistic expectations tailored to their needs. This information should not replace professional medical advice or treatment.

Academic References:

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Tanghetti EA, “The role of inflammation in the pathology of acne.” Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology 6, no. 9 (2013): 27-35.

Sivamani RK et al., “Natural alternatives for treating acne and skin inflammation.” Journal of Drugs in Dermatology 18, no. 8 (2019): 788-794.

Fabbrocini G et al., “The role of sebum and sebaceous glands in acne pathogenesis.” Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 66, no. 6 (2012): 939-949.

Grice EA et al., “The skin microbiome and its role in acne.” Nature Reviews Microbiology 9, no. 4 (2011): 244-253.

Bowe WP et al., “The effects of diet on acne: A review of the evidence.” Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 63, no. 1 (2010): 124-141.

Kraft JN et al., “The role of inflammation in acne management.” Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology 11, no. 8 (2018): 16-23.

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Clearer Skin, Lasting Confidence

We adopt a practical, plant-tech approach for sustainable, medication-free results for adult-onset, hormonal acne, adolescent, and preganant acne sufferers. By addressing root causes like lifestyle, diet, hormones, sebum activity, bacteria, and inflammation, our personalised solutions promote clear, resilient skin without the risks of harsh treatments.

Like fingerprints, every client is unique. Folke’s plant-tech approach combines botanical formulations and non-invasive technologies, tailoring solutions unique to your skin condition, history, and lifestyle for targeted, effective care — without drugs, medication, or harsh procedures.

⬑ Outsmart sustenance with daily skincare

⬑ Customised botanical solutions to address the most aggressive of conditions

No-Medication, Naturopathic Approach

Manage acne and oily skin with a plant-tech approach that avoids harsh treatments like lasers and oral medications. This prevents side effects such as digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, photosensitivity, and rebound acne while being safe for sensitive skin and pregnancy. Our holistic method targets root causes, promoting clear, balanced skin with lasting confidence.

⬑ No-medication approach

⬑ Clear and healthy-looking skin, naturally

Reduction of Pus and Bumps

Acne breakouts cause swelling, pus buildup, and discomfort, increasing scarring risks. Instead of drying the skin or trapping pus, our plant-based approach targets inflammation and bacteria from day one. By restoring balance to the skin’s microbiome and sebum activity, it calms swelling, reduces breakouts, and promotes faster, clearer healing.

⬑ Pus-filled acne infection

⬑ Promoting swift, calm healing for clearer skin and daily confidence

Calm Acne Inflammation

Rather than drying out breakouts with medication or harsh treatments, we reduce swelling and redness using customised plant-based formulations. By minimising pus and inflammation without over-drying, we create an optimal healing environment that lowers the risk of scars and blemishes while supporting a balanced microbiome for healthier, more resilient skin.

⬑ Premature drying out and sensitivity

⬑ Clear, healthy, and a calmer recovery process for acne-prone skin

Normalise Sebaceous Activity (Oil Production)

Instead of aggressively drying the skin, we regulate sebum production like a dimmer switch, reducing inflammation while maintaining microbiome balance. By normalising sebaceous activity, the skin preserves its barrier, preventing excess dryness or overproduction. This promotes clearer, healthier skin while minimising irritation, oxidative stress, and premature ageing.

⬑ Oily skin with clogged pores and acne bacterial infection

⬑ Balanced and resilient skin with controlled sebum, fewer clogged pores, and reduced infection risk.

Reduce Probability of Scarring

By controlling bacterial growth, inflammation, and pus buildup, we tackle the root causes of discomfort, scarring, and post-acne blemishes from the start. Our approach supports natural healing, regulates oil production, and protects healthy skin cells, promoting smoother skin, faster recovery, and a lower risk of long-term scarring.

⬑ Post-acne scarring and blemishes

⬑ A faster, healthier recovery for acne-prone skin, naturally restoring balance and resilience

Reduce Formation of Marks & Blemishes

By addressing inflammation, swelling, and acne-causing bacteria, we minimise the risk of post-acne marks while supporting the skin’s natural healing process. This approach reduces breakouts, smooths bumps, and lowers the likelihood of pigmentation and blemishes, promoting clearer, healthier skin.

⬑ Visible skin imperfections that makeup cannot fully conceal

⬑ Clear, bare skin sustained through balanced sebum regulation, reduced inflammation, and optimal skin healing

Acne Solutions Tailored to You

Every skin journey is unique. At Folke®, we combine plant-tech innovations with non-invasive care, customising treatments to your skin’s condition, history, and lifestyle. By targeting hormonal imbalances, bacterial infections, and excess sebum, we address acne at its root, promoting clear, resilient skin without harsh procedures or oral medications.

⬑ Solutions customised for you

⬑ Personalised care that supports your skin’s natural balance for lasting clarity and resilience