Acne Myths Debunked: What Really Causes Pimples and How to Treat Them

Acne affects more than just skin — it impacts confidence, comfort, and quality of life. And yet, misinformation still dominates the conversation. At The Treatment Centre, we take an evidence-based, holistic approach to skin health. It starts by clearing up the myths and understanding acne for what it really is: a complex, inflammatory condition with multiple triggers — both internal and external.

Reality: Over-cleansing can strip the skin’s protective barrier, causing irritation and rebound oiliness. Acne isn’t caused by surface dirt — it’s an inflammatory response happening beneath the skin.

The Fix: Use a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser morning and night. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid , niacinamide , or azelaic acid that help reduce congestion without aggravating the skin.

Reality: Acne isn’t caused by one food, but diet can influence hormonal activity, inflammation, and gut health — all of which impact acne. Dairy and high-glycaemic foods (like white bread and sugary snacks) are common internal triggers.

The Fix: Support skin from within. Nutrients like zinc , omega-3s , vitamin A , and probiotics are all crucial for regulating inflammation and oil flow. We often recommend gut or hormonal support as part of a treatment plan.

Reality: Spot treatments may help with symptoms, but acne needs a full-system approach — targeting oil regulation, inflammation, bacterial imbalance, and skin resilience.

The Fix: Think prevention, not just reaction. Your skin may benefit from retinol, chemical exfoliants, anti-inflammatory actives, and — crucially — barrier repair ingredients to reduce flare-ups and prevent scarring.

• Excess oil (sebum) production

• Blocked pores (due to dead skin, oil, or product build-up)

• Chronic inflammation

• Hormonal imbalances (androgens, cortisol)

• Gut imbalances and dietary triggers

• Stress and poor sleep

• Incorrect or overactive skincare routines

Acne is never “just one thing” — that’s why generic solutions rarely work long-term.

We combine clinical insight, internal wellness, and personalised skin care to address acne from every angle:

1. Decongest : Carefully selected exfoliants and retinoids to unclog pores.

2. Calm : Barrier-repairing and anti-inflammatory ingredients to reduce redness and discomfort.

3. Nourish from within : Targeted supplementation to balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and support gut-skin health.

4. Hydrate : Oil-free but nourishing moisturisers to keep skin resilient.

5. Protect : Broad-spectrum SPF daily to prevent pigmentation and maintain progress.

Every acne case is unique — and so is your path to clear skin. At The Treatment Centre , we offer personalised consultations to uncover your triggers and build a plan that works for your skin and lifestyle.

✨ Book your Skin Health Discovery Session today and take the first step toward long-term skin confidence. Your skin deserves expert care — and so do you.