Let’s get real, acne is the absolute worst. That stands true whether you’re dealing with the occasional breakout or a full-face battlefield. Between TikTok hacks, conflicting advice, and overpriced skincare routines, figuring out what actually works can feel impossible. But when you break acne down to its root causes and match the solution to the severity, there’s a path forward.
This no-nonsense guide dives into the acne grading system, uncovers the truth behind hormonal vs. bacterial acne, and highlights legit solutions that can actually help. We'll even show you powerful clinical-grade products from Meditouch® that professionals trust.
What Is Acne, Really?![]()
Acne is a chronic skin condition involving the hair follicles and oil glands. It can show up as blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, cysts, or nodules. It’s not just a teenage problem. Adult acne is very real, and the triggers can range from hormones to bacteria to stress.
Before you go fixing anything, you need to figure out what kind of acne you’re dealing with and how bad it actually is.
The Acne Grading System: Know Your Enemy
Dermatologists use the acne grading system to determine how severe your acne is. The right diagnosis is the first step toward the right treatment.
Grade 1: Mild Acne
- Mostly whiteheads and blackheads
- A few small pimples
- Usually on the forehead, nose, or chin
What Works:
A gentle cleanser and an occasional exfoliant is more than sufficient for grade 1 acne and more aggressive treatments can make the breakouts worse. Meditouch®’s grade 1 Acne System includes a gentle cleanser, acne clearing lotion, and moisturizer that is fit for clearing those occasional breakouts.
Grade 2: Moderate Acne
- More frequent papules and pustules (red pimples with pus)
- Usually spreads to cheeks and jawline
- Possible mild scarring if untreated
What Works:
This is when your routine needs more muscle. Meditouch®’s Grade 2 Acne System includes a full system: cleanser, lotion, spot treatment via serums, and moisturizer formulated to tackle moderate breakouts with salicylic acid and niacinamide.
Grade 3: Severe Acne
- Lots of inflamed, red lesions
- Nodules and cysts may appear
- Risk of long-term scarring
What Works:
You need active ingredients and a consistent regimen. Use Meditouch®’s Grade 3 Acne System for resurfacing and reducing inflammation.
Hormonal vs. Bacterial Acne: Know the Difference
Now that you’ve nailed your grade, the next step is understanding the cause. Is your acne triggered by hormones or is it more bacterial?
Hormonal Acne
Signs:
- Flare-ups during your period
- Deep cysts around chin and jawline
- Worsens with stress
Fix It:
- Consider hormonal treatments like birth control pills or spironolactone.
- Skincare still helps. Use non-comedogenic products and look for anti-inflammatory ingredients.
- Acne peels with glycolic acid help even out tone and calm breakouts.
Bacterial Acne
Signs:
- Inflamed whiteheads and pustules
- Often shows up on the forehead, cheeks, and nose
- Spreads with dirty phones, sweat, and makeup
Fix It:
- Topical benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria.
- Salicylic acid keeps pores clear.
- Use Therapeutic Acne Wash Face and Body – Oil Free to clean and treat daily.
- Keep skin clean, and don’t touch your face!
Don’t Fall for These Acne Myths
You’ve probably heard it all. Let’s clear the air:
Myth 1: You need to dry it out.
Nope. Over-drying just causes more irritation and oil production. Use acne-targeted ingredients with hydrating products like Advance Acne Therapy + Serum.
Myth 2: Only teens get acne.
Wrong. Adult acne, especially hormonal acne, is super common.
Myth 3: Popping pimples makes them go away faster.
It might feel satisfying, but it increases inflammation and causes scars. If you've already traveled down that road, try this spot treatment serum to help lighten those scars: Revitalizing Power+
Myth 4: Natural is always better.
DIY skincare can burn or irritate your skin. Clinical formulas with proven ingredients are more reliable—like the science-backed skincare at Meditouch®.
What Will Actually Fix Your Acne?
Ready for the no B.S. part? Here's the truth: Acne is personal. No one-size-fits-all routine will work for everyone. The key is matching your treatment to the type and severity.
Here’s what a solid routine looks like:
1. Cleanser That Works
You want one that’s tough on breakouts but gentle on skin.
Try:
- Therapeutic Acne Wash Face and Body – Oil Free for mild acne
- Clarifying Cleanser for moderate to severe acne
2. Exfoliation Without Wrecking Your Barrier
Chemical exfoliants like glycolic and salicylic acids are your best friends.
Try: Acne Peel Glycolic 30% + Salicylic 2% - Home Facial Treatment once or twice a week
3. Targeted Treatment
This is where you knock out bacteria or reduce inflammation.
Try:
- Acne Clearing Advance Formula II (for active breakouts)
- Advance Acne Therapy + Serum (to prevent clogged pores and fade marks)
4. Hydration Without Breakouts
Even oily skin needs moisture. Skipping this step is a rookie mistake.
Try:
- Skin Repair Moisturizer – lightweight, non-comedogenic
5. Sun Protection
UV exposure makes post-acne marks worse and can mess with your skin barrier.
Try:
- Sun Block SPF 45 Oil Free Broad Spectrum – no breakouts, no greasy finish
When to See a Dermatologist
If you’re at Grade 3 or 4, or if over-the-counter products just aren’t cutting it, a dermatologist can help. You might need:
- Oral antibiotics
- Hormonal therapies
- Cortisone injections
- Prescription retinoids
Still, great skincare matters even with prescriptions. Use Meditouch® products to support your medical treatment and reduce future flare-ups.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
Real talk: acne doesn’t disappear overnight. Give any routine at least 6 to 8 weeks before switching it up. Some ingredients, like retinol, take time to show real change, but you can start feeling a difference in as little as 7 days. Consistency pays off.
In the meantime, avoid the temptation to jump from product to product. Stick with your plan and trust the process.
Post-Acne Care: How to Treat Scars and Hyperpigmentation
So, your breakouts are finally under control. Now what? If you're left with dark spots, pitted scars, or uneven skin tone, you're not alone. Post-acne care is the next essential phase of your skincare journey.
Types of Acne Scars
1. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH):
These flat, dark marks often appear after a pimple heals. Common in medium to dark skin tones, they fade over time but can linger for months.
2. Post-Inflammatory Erythema (PIE):
These red or pink marks are more common in fair skin. They result from damage to the capillaries during inflammation.
3. Atrophic Scars:
These are indented scars like ice-pick, rolling, or boxcar scars. They result from collagen loss after severe acne.
What Helps?
For PIH and PIE:
Use scar healing ingredients such as Tea Tree, Retinol, and Glycolic Acid.
Try:
Advance Acne Therapy + Serum
For Atrophic Scars:
You may need more advanced treatments like microneedling, chemical peels, or laser therapy—usually offered by dermatologists or medical spas. Still, consistent use of retinoids can help encourage collagen production.
Lifestyle and Diet: Do They Really Matter?
Let’s be honest, no salad ever cured acne. But diet and lifestyle can either support or sabotage your skin goals.
What to Watch Out For:
1. Dairy Products:
Studies suggest dairy, especially skim milk, may contribute to acne for some people. If you're breaking out around the chin and jaw, try a 30-day dairy elimination to see if it helps.
2. High Glycemic Foods:
White bread, sugary drinks, and processed snacks spike blood sugar, which can increase oil production and inflammation—bad news for acne-prone skin.
3. Lack of Sleep & Stress:
Cortisol (the stress hormone) triggers inflammation and can worsen hormonal acne. Lack of sleep also affects skin’s ability to heal.
4. Dirty Phones, Pillowcases, and Makeup Brushes:
All of these can harbor bacteria that aggravate bacterial acne. Clean your stuff weekly, minimum.
Skin-Supportive Habits
- Drink plenty of water
- Eat antioxidant-rich foods (berries, leafy greens, nuts)
- Prioritize sleep
- Practice stress management: yoga, meditation, walking, or journaling
Supplements to Consider
Talk to a dermatologist before trying anything, but these supplements have research backing:
- Zinc – helps reduce inflammation and bacterial growth
- Omega-3s – anti-inflammatory fatty acids
- Probiotics – support gut health, which can influence skin health
Final Thoughts: You Deserve Better Than Gimmicks
Acne isn’t just a cosmetic issue, it affects your confidence and mental well-being. Don’t waste time on fads, filters, or expensive nonsense. Focus on treatments backed by science, not influencers.
The acne grading system is your map. Understanding whether you have hormonal or bacterial acne is your compass. And the right products, like those from Meditouch® , are your tools.
Build an Acne Routine That is Grounded in Real Science with Meditouch®
Stop guessing and start treating your skin right. Meditouch® offers scientific solutions tailored according to the acne grading system. Whether it's hormonal or bacterial acne, find the right acne treatment by severity and build a routine that actually works. See real before and after results with Meditouch® and discover what your skin can achieve.