SKIN CONCERN
Acne & Breakouts
Understanding Acne
Common causes and treatment options for clearer, healthier skin.
Acne and breakouts can affect more than your skin. Understanding what contributes to them helps us build a treatment and home-care plan that targets breakouts while supporting your skin barrier.
TREATING ACNE AT WOODLAND
Recommended Treatments
We tailor every treatment plan to your skin, goals and the type of concern you're experiencing. These treatments can be used alone or in combination for optimal results.
Aerolase Neo Elite
Targets active acne and inflammation
1064 nm Nd:YAG laser energy helps address inflammation, redness, excess oil and C. acnes associated with active breakouts. The 650-microsecond pulse delivers energy quickly and gently, with little to no downtime and suitability across all skin tones.
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Chemical Peels
Decongest pores and reduce buildup
Acne-focused peels use ingredients such as salicylic acid to move through oil and into congested pores, helping loosen excess sebum and dead skin cells. Treatment can reduce clogged pores and breakouts while improving the uneven texture acne can leave behind.
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LED Therapy Series
Targets bacteria and calms inflammation
Blue LED light at 415 nm targets C. acnes, while red and near-infrared wavelengths help calm visible inflammation and support skin recovery. LED is a gentle, non-invasive option that works well alone or alongside other acne treatments.
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Acne Facial
Clears congestion while supporting the barrier
A customized facial for breakout-prone skin that combines targeted cleansing, exfoliation and gentle extractions when appropriate. Treatment focuses on clearing surface buildup and congestion while calming inflammation, restoring hydration and protecting the skin barrier rather than aggressively stripping the skin.
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UNDERSTANDING YOUR SKIN
What is Acne?
Acne develops within the pilosebaceous unit - the hair follicle and its associated oil gland. Breakouts form when excess sebum and dead skin cells build up inside the follicle. Changes in C. acnes bacteria and the skin’s inflammatory response can then contribute to different types of acne lesions.
- Blackheads and whiteheads – pores clogged with oil and dead skin cells, with little or no inflammation
- Papules and pustules – red, inflamed lesions that develop as the immune system responds within the follicle
- Nodules and cysts – deeper inflammation that develops below the skin’s surface and carries a greater risk of scarring
Key point: Acne is not caused by dirty skin or poor hygiene. Over-cleansing, scrubbing and harsh acne products can disrupt the skin barrier and increase irritation and inflammation.
CAUSES & RISK FACTORS
Why does it happen?
Acne is multifactorial. Oil production, follicular buildup, bacteria, inflammation and individual susceptibility can all influence how and where breakouts develop.
Excess oil production
Sebaceous glands can produce more sebum, creating an environment where pores are more likely to become congested.
Follicular buildup
Dead skin cells can accumulate inside the follicle and combine with sebum, contributing to blackheads, whiteheads and clogged pores.
C. acnes & inflammation
C. acnes naturally lives on the skin but can contribute to an inflammatory response when conditions within a clogged follicle change.
Hormonal influence
Androgens can increase sebaceous activity, which is why acne may fluctuate with puberty, menstrual cycles and other hormonal changes.
Genetics & individual factors
Genetics can influence oil production, inflammation and acne susceptibility. Stress, friction, certain medications and some products may also worsen breakouts.
YOUR TREATMENT JOURNEY
What to expect
1
Starting treatment
Your skin may still break out at first as treatment begins to address congestion, excess oil and inflammation.
2
As treatment progresses
You may start to notice fewer active breakouts, less redness and congestion, and faster healing of blemishes.
3
Longer term
With a consistent treatment plan and home care, the goal is better breakout control, calmer skin and fewer new blemishes over time.
