Acne is a common disorder of the oil or sebaceous glands, which causes inflammatory ‘spots’. It occurs when the openings to the oil glands (pores) become blocked, allowing a build-up of oil and bacteria, and subsequent inflammation. The clinical features vary from person to person and can include blackheads, whiteheads, pustules and/or nodules or cysts. Acne generally occurs in areas where there is a high concentration of oil glands ie. the face, chest, upper back, shoulders, neck. Although acne is most seen in teenagers, but it can affect people of all ages.

One of the most important parts of acne management is choosing the correct active ingredients. Two of the most commonly used acids are Salicylic Acid (BHA) and Glycolic Acid (AHA) — but they work in very different ways. Understanding the difference is essential for safe and effective results.

Salicylic Acid is best for:

• Blackheads and whiteheads
• Oily skin and enlarged pores
• Congested skin
• Inflammatory acne
• Folliculitis
• Jawline acne (often hormonal)

Why Salicylic Acid works:

• Salicylic acid travels into the pore lining and helps to:
• Break down trapped oil (sebum)
• Reduce dead skin buildup inside pores
• Decrease inflammation
• Improve comedones and blocked follicles
• Reduce the risk of new breakouts forming

This makes salicylic acid the gold standard skincare ingredient for congestion-based acne.

Glycolic Acid is best for:

• Post-acne pigmentation (brown marks)
• Post-inflammatory redness
• Dull or uneven skin tone
• Early acne scarring
• Thickened skin texture
• Fine lines and skin ageing alongside acne

Why Glycolic Acid works:

Glycolic acid helps by:

• Accelerating skin cell turnover
• Removing dead surface cells
• Improving skin radiance and clarity
• Supporting collagen stimulation over time
• Reducing the appearance of pigmentation and superficial scarring

This makes glycolic acid particularly useful for patients who say, “My acne is improving, but the marks and texture won’t go away.”

Salicylic Acid or Glycolic Acid?

The answer depends entirely on the acne type.

• Salicylic acid is best for active breakouts and clogged pores
• Glycolic acid is best for post-acne marks, skin texture and pigmentation

In many cases, the most effective approach is a structured combination, used on alternate evenings, depending on tolerance and skin barrier strength.

However, using the wrong acid (or using too much too soon) can worsen acne by damaging the skin barrier, causing:

• irritation
• rebound oil production
• increased inflammation
• pigmentation flare-ups

This is why professional acne skincare guidance is essential.

Topical Retinoids and Retinol:

In contrast to systemic isotretinoin (Roaccutane), topical retinoids and retinol-based products are widely used in acne skincare and are available under clinical supervision or over the counter in milder formulations.

Topical retinoids such as adapalene and tretinoin are licensed for the treatment of acne and are often combined with other agents (e.g. clindamycin) for enhanced efficacy. These medications help unclog pores, reduce inflammation and improve skin texture over time.

Retinol and other cosmetic retinoids are gentler Vitamin A derivatives used for acne-prone skin, texture improvement and early scarring or pigmentation. These do not carry the same regulatory controls as isotretinoin but can still be potent and should be introduced gradually, with sun protection being absolutely crucial for success.

Acne Treatment Plan

Acne scarring treatment requires consistency and often multiple treatments over several months. For best outcomes, treatment is usually performed in stages, with healing and recovery time between sessions.

At Clinic M Medical, we provide everything required for successful acne and scar management, including:

Tailored Cleansing & Skincare Regime:

A correct cleansing regime is the foundation of acne control. Acne-prone skin needs products that:

• keep pores clear
• reduce inflammation
• support the skin barrier
• prevent excessive dryness or irritation

This includes selecting the correct active ingredients such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, retinoids, niacinamide and barrier-supportive moisturisers.

Reduce Oil Production & Strengthen the Skin Barrier:

Acne is strongly linked to sebum production and inflammation. The aim is to:

• reduce excess oil without stripping the skin
• improve hydration
• protect the skin barrier
• reduce sensitivity and redness

A healthy skin barrier is essential to prevent acne recurrence and reduce scarring risk.

Advanced Laser Therapy for Acne & Folliculitis:

We offer advanced combination laser therapy for acne, including anti-inflammatory and resurfacing laser treatment. Laser treatment can:

• reduce inflamed acne pustules rapidly
• decrease bacterial load within follicles
• reduce redness and irritation
• improve acne scarring over time

Laser treatment tailored for folliculitis and inflammatory acne is one of the most effective options for reducing persistent inflammatory lesions and improving skin texture.

Medical Treatment & Prescription Support (If Required):

Some acne requires prescription-based medical support, including hormonal acne and cystic acne.

Where necessary, we can provide appropriate medical management or referral pathways to ensure acne is treated safely and effectively.

Consultant Dermatologist Referral:

For severe acne, cystic acne, resistant acne, or acne requiring specialist medication such as isotretinoin, we can arrange referral to a Consultant Dermatologist.