You've surely heard it: acne comes from chocolate, stress, dirty skin. The truth is more nuanced — and more reassuring. Dermatologist Dr. James E. Fulton spent decades researching the real causes of acne, and his findings change how we look at blemish-prone skin.
The core truth? Acne isn't your fault. It's an interplay of hormones, sebum production, and bacteria that largely plays out beneath the skin surface. But with the right products and approach, you can get it under control.
What really causes acne
According to Dr. Fulton's research, acne revolves around three main factors:
1. Excessive sebum production
Your sebaceous glands produce too much sebum, clogging pores. This process is largely driven by androgens, explaining why acne often appears during puberty or hormonal fluctuations.
2. Abnormal cell division in pores
In acne-prone skin, dead cells clump together forming a plug — a micro-comedo — the very first stage of a pimple, invisible but present weeks before anything visible appears.
3. Bacterial activity
Cutibacterium acnes thrives in clogged, oxygen-free pores, triggering an inflammatory immune response — redness, swelling, pus.
Myths busted
- "Dirty skin causes acne" — No. Over-cleansing actually makes it worse.
- "You should squeeze spots" — Never. It pushes infection deeper.
- "Sunlight helps acne" — Dangerous myth. UV worsens post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
The right products for acne
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Aqua Gel — €4.95 to €12.19
Lightweight hyaluronic acid hydration without clogging pores. Save up to €7.24 by comparing!
Compare Neutrogena prices on PharmaCompare →
Neutrogena Retinol Boost+ Intensive Serum — €18.89
Retinol accelerates cell turnover and prevents pore clogging.
Clinique Clarifying Lotion 1 — €47.99
Gentle exfoliant that helps keep pores clear.
Clinique Even Better Clinical Makeup SPF50 — €39.89 to €46.98
Non-comedogenic makeup with built-in sun protection.
Conclusion
Acne is frustrating but treatable. The key: understand the mechanisms, choose proven ingredients (retinol, niacinamide, BHA), and be patient. Always compare prices on PharmaCompare to find the best deal at licensed Belgian pharmacies.