What is acne
Acne is a chronic skin condition affecting the oil glands and hair follicles on the face and body. It appears when pores become blocked with dead skin cells and sebum (oily secretion), leading to spots, comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), inflammation and marks.
Types of acne
Acne is divided into three main types depending on severity and appearance.
| Type of acne | What it looks like | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Comedonal | Open comedones (blackheads) and closed comedones (whiteheads) from blocked pores. | Mild form |
| Inflammatory | Papules, pustules and nodules: red, sometimes tender bumps on the face, back and shoulders. | Moderate form |
| Cystic | Large, painful cysts beneath the skin that can leave lasting marks. | Most severe form |
Comedonal acne
A mild form characterised by open comedones (blackheads) and closed comedones (whiteheads). It develops as a result of blocked pores, whether from excess oil production or external impurities.
Inflammatory acne
A moderate form with papules (small red bumps), pustules (spots with pus) and nodules (large, firm bumps). These are the everyday troublesome spots: some can be tender or contain a white discharge, and they appear not only on the face but also on the back, chest and shoulders.
Cystic acne
The most severe form, characterised by large, painful cysts beneath the skin that can leave lasting marks.
Causes of acne
Symptoms of acne
Main symptoms of acne include:
- Oily skin: the skin produces excess sebum, leading to shine.
- Enlarged pores: pores widen to accommodate excess sebum.
- Spots: various types of blemishes appear, including:
- Blackheads (open comedones): open pores filled with sebum and dead skin cells.
- Whiteheads (closed comedones): closed pores filled with sebum and dead skin cells.
- Papules: small, red, firm bumps.
- Pustules: papules that have become inflamed and filled with pus.
- Nodules: large, firm, painful lumps beneath the skin.
- Cysts: large, pus-filled sacs beneath the skin.
Other symptoms of acne can include redness and inflammation of the skin, pain (especially with nodules and cysts), itching, as well as marks that acne can leave after healing.
Diagnosing acne
Acne is diagnosed mainly based on the clinical picture, that is, through a standard dermatological examination. The doctor examines the skin to determine the type and severity of the acne, and asks clarifying questions about:
- Symptoms: when they first appeared and how they have changed over time.
- Previous treatments: which methods you have used and what the results were.
- Family history: whether any relatives have acne.
- Medications: whether you are taking any medication that could affect acne.
- Hormonal imbalances: whether you have a hormonal imbalance that could contribute to acne.
In some cases, further investigations may be needed to rule out other skin conditions or to determine the causes of the acne.
Treating acne
Care for acne depends on its severity. For mild acne, natural herbal products or cosmetics with exfoliating active ingredients such as AHA (alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acid), BHA (beta hydroxy acids like salicylic acid), PHA (polyhydroxy acids like gluconolactone), azelaic acid and others are often enough.
It is important to know your skin type so you use the right active ingredient without irritating it. For more severe acne, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics or hormonal medication. Never take medication on your own or without a prescription, so as not to risk your health.
Lavender water for acne
Organic Lavender water - Hydrolina is a natural product obtained through steam distillation of fresh lavender flowers. It is valued for its soothing and refreshing properties, which make it suitable for the care of skin prone to acne.
Here is how our certified Organic Lavender water - Hydrolina can support your acne care routine:
Herbal lavender water contains components that help support the skin's defences against the bacteria linked to breakouts.
Lavender helps calm redness and irritation, leaving the skin visibly more settled.
Helps balance sebum production, one of the main factors behind breakouts.
Helps refresh the skin and maintain its comfort after blemishes appear.
For a more complete routine, you can try Acne RoutINA™ - a natural combination created to care for skin prone to acne over the long term. It includes:
- Natural Herbal Soap with Lavender and Blueberry for Acne
- Organic Lavender water - Hydrolina
- Hydrobiotic - Lavender & Mint
Acne RoutINA™ - long-lasting acne care
Acne RoutINA™ works in sync with the skin's natural recovery processes. It provides care during the day and recovery overnight for a complete approach to acne, blackheads and excess oil.
I order this for my daughter, and she's well pleased with the cosmetics.
Hello there! I've only been using the organic lavender water Hydrolina for a short while. It's a grand product, just like your other stuff. Leaves the skin lovely and soft, and clean too, without drying it out at all. Cheers!
I bought this organic lavender water for my teenager. We saw results after just the first few uses. Can't recommend it enough!
How to help prevent acne
- First and most important tip: do NOT squeeze your spots. This spreads the infection to the rest of the skin, may cause marks, and slows down the healing process.
- Cleanse your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water. To avoid disrupting your skin barrier, in the morning you can cleanse with lukewarm water alone or with InaEssentials' Natural Herbal Soap with Lavender and Blueberry - a gentle organic product rich in valuable oils and vitamins that doesn't dry out the skin.
- Avoid harsh exfoliants. Don't exfoliate more than once or twice a week, as frequent exfoliation damages the skin barrier and dehydrates the skin. It's a myth that oily skin shouldn't be hydrated: sometimes excess sebum is produced precisely because the skin is dehydrated and seeking balance.
- Don't touch your face with dirty hands and sleep on clean bedding. Change your pillowcases at least once a week to help prevent bacteria spreading while you sleep.
- Avoid wearing heavy make-up every day and let your skin breathe. Excess make-up blocks pores, and a good example of the skin being smothered is so-called "maskne" from prolonged mask-wearing.
More ways to help prevent acne:
- Use non-comedogenic cosmetic products, formulated so they don't block pores.
- Keep your hair clean. Oily hair can contribute to breakouts, especially if it touches your face.
- Eat well. Some foods can contribute to breakouts, while others help support improvement of symptoms.
- Reduce sources of stress: exercise, practise yoga or meditation, spend time in nature, get enough sleep and avoid overload.
Acne and mental wellbeing
Acne can affect self-esteem and heighten anxiety, while stress in turn can worsen the condition of the skin. If your blemishes are weighing on you emotionally, seek support from a loved one, a dermatologist or a psychologist.
Acne and pregnancy
Acne during pregnancy is usually hormonal and, in most cases, temporary. Certain ingredients and medications are not safe during pregnancy, so always consult your doctor or gynaecologist before using any product on your skin.
Acne in men
Men can experience acne too, and it often appears on the back and shoulders as well, due to higher testosterone, sweating and friction. With patience, consistency and the right care, the skin can visibly calm down. 💜
About the InaEssentials family
InaEssentials is a Bulgarian family business with over 25 years of experience in organic farming and natural cosmetics using rose oil, herbal waters and ingredients from our own plantations. Every product is created with care for the skin and respect for nature.
Frequently asked questions
Important information
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a doctor or dermatologist. InaEssentials products are cosmetic, not medicinal, and are not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent any condition. For severe or persistent acne, please consult a specialist.
