Acne and breakouts are among the most common skin problems faced by young women. Between the ages of 18 and 30, hormonal changes, stress, poor nutrition, and the use of unsuitable cosmetics cause pimples to form. In this article, we provide a detailed explanation of the causes of acne and breakouts, treatment methods, and the proper skincare routine.
Breakouts occur when the skin’s oil glands produce excess sebum, causing pores to become clogged. Bacteria multiply in clogged pores and inflammation develops — this manifests as pimples. Acne is the more severe and widespread form of breakouts — it can cover large areas of the face, neck, back, and chest.
Breakouts are not just a cosmetic problem — if left untreated, they can leave dark spots, marks, and scars on the skin. That is why building a proper skincare routine and choosing the right products is so important.
Hormonal changes are the primary cause of breakouts. Disruption of hormonal balance during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, stress, or contraceptive use increases sebum production. In addition, sugary and fatty foods, excessive dairy consumption, and sleep deprivation also contribute to acne flare-ups.
Using the wrong cosmetics is also a major factor that clogs pores and causes breakouts. Oily and comedogenic creams, skin that is not regularly cleansed, and frequently touching the face increase the risk of breakouts. Weakening of the skin barrier also leads to an increase in inflammatory breakouts.
The most important step in skincare is choosing the right cleanser. For oily and acne-prone skin, cleansers containing salicylic acid (BHA) are the most effective choice. Salicylic acid penetrates deep into the pores to remove excess oil and dead skin cells.
The NewLab Salicylic Acid 0.5% + Niacinamide Gentle Facial Cleanser 200ml is an effective cleanser formulated with salicylic acid (BHA), niacinamide, and botanical extracts. It helps reduce excess oiliness and the appearance of blackheads in daily cleansing. A practical cleansing step for acne-prone and oily skin.
If your skin is sensitive, dry, or combination, a gentler cleanser is needed. The NewLab Vitamin B12 + Bisabolol Foaming Cleanser 150ml cleanses the skin with vitamin B12, bisabolol, aloe vera, and chamomile extract while supporting moisture balance and skin barrier comfort. Suitable for all skin types, including dry and sensitive skin.
After cleansing, it is important to use treatment products that target breakouts. Calamine is one of the most effective ingredients for acne-prone skin — it provides a soothing effect on the skin surface, reduces redness, and helps dry out pimples.
The NewLab Calamine + Provitamin B5 + Allantoin Anti-Acne Lotion 30ml is enriched with 2% calamine, 0.5% salicylic acid, tea tree extract, and Salix Alba extract. These active components help soothe the skin, cleanse pores, and reduce the appearance of breakouts. The product is applied in a thin layer only to problem areas and is suitable for nighttime use.
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is one of the most recommended ingredients in acne treatment. Niacinamide tightens pores, regulates sebum production, reduces dark spots, and strengthens the skin barrier. When used together with salicylic acid, it deeply cleanses pores and prevents the formation of new breakouts.
Serum is the most powerful step in a skincare routine — it contains high concentrations of active ingredients and penetrates deep into the skin. Choosing the right serum makes a significant difference for post-acne dark spots, fine lines, and uneven skin texture.
EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor) is a powerful active ingredient that supports the skin’s self-renewal process. The NewLab XEP 716 Miniprotein EGF Face Serum 30ml is based on EGF active and helps increase the skin’s moisture level, maintain an elastic appearance, and promote a smoother skin surface. Its lightweight texture absorbs without leaving a heavy feeling. Apply 2–4 drops to clean skin and gently massage until fully absorbed. Can be used 1–2 times daily in morning or evening routine. Suitable for daily care of dry, normal, and combination skin types.
Many young women skip moisturizer when they have breakouts — but this is one of the biggest mistakes. Skin that lacks moisture produces more sebum, which leads to new breakouts forming. The right moisturizer strengthens the skin barrier and helps reduce breakouts.
Creams containing Cica (Centella Asiatica) are an ideal choice for sensitive and acne-prone skin. The NewLab Intense Hydraplus Recovery Cica Cream 50ml is formulated with Centella Asiatica, madecassoside, hyaluronic acid, sodium PCA, and ceramide complex. Its Cica-based formula increases comfort in sensitive and dry-prone skin, helping reduce feelings of tightness and the appearance of dryness. Hyaluronic acid and sodium PCA support increased skin moisture levels. Ceramide support protects the integrity of the skin barrier and increases resistance to external factors. Supports a more balanced and plump skin appearance in daily use.
Toner removes residue remaining on the skin after cleansing and tightens pores. For acne-prone skin, toners containing salicylic acid and niacinamide are the most effective choice. Toner is used morning and evening, after cleansing and before serum.
Peeling should be applied 1–2 times per week. AHA (alpha-hydroxy acids) removes dead cells from the skin surface, while BHA (salicylic acid) penetrates into pores to dissolve oil plugs. After peeling, always use moisturizer and sunscreen — exfoliated skin is more sensitive to UV rays.
Dedicating 5–10 minutes to your morning and evening skincare is enough to keep breakouts under control.
1. Cleansing: For oily and acne-prone skin, use The NewLab Salicylic Acid + Niacinamide Cleanser; for sensitive skin, use The NewLab B12 Foaming Cleanser.
2. Toner: Tighten pores with a niacinamide or salicylic acid toner and prepare your skin for the next step.
3. Serum: Apply The NewLab EGF Serum for skin renewal and hydration. 2–4 drops is sufficient.
4. Treatment product: In your evening routine, apply The NewLab Calamine Lotion to areas with breakouts. Apply only to problem areas.
5. Moisturizer: Strengthen your skin barrier and lock in moisture with The NewLab Cica Cream.
6. SPF (morning): Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen in your morning routine. This step is non-negotiable to prevent acne marks from darkening.
Skin health is not limited to external care alone. Nutrition directly affects breakout formation. High glycemic index foods (sweets, white bread, carbonated drinks) raise insulin levels, which stimulates sebum production. Dairy products have also been shown to contribute to breakout formation.
Supportive nutrition against acne includes fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants (blueberries, broccoli, spinach), omega-3 fatty acids (fish, walnuts, flaxseed), zinc-rich foods (pumpkin seeds, chickpeas), and probiotic sources (kefir, sauerkraut). Drinking at least 2 liters of water daily is essential for skin hydration and toxin elimination.
Squeezing pimples is the most dangerous mistake — it spreads infection, increases inflammation, and leaves permanent dark spots and scars on the skin. The second biggest mistake is skipping moisturizer — when skin dries out, it produces more oil, and breakouts increase. The third mistake is using too many active ingredients at once — using retinol, AHA, BHA, and salicylic acid simultaneously irritates the skin and weakens the barrier.
How long does a pimple take to heal?
A single pimple usually heals within 3–7 days. However, without regular care, new breakouts will continue to form.
Can niacinamide and salicylic acid be used together?
Yes, niacinamide and salicylic acid are complementary ingredients. Salicylic acid cleanses pores, while niacinamide soothes the skin and strengthens the barrier.
How is calamine lotion used?
Apply a thin layer only to areas with breakouts. Suitable for nighttime use. In the morning, cleanse the skin with water.
Does acne-prone skin need moisturizer?
Absolutely. Skin without moisture produces more oil, increasing breakouts. Choose lightweight, oil-free moisturizers with cica or hyaluronic acid.
What does EGF serum do?
EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor) supports the skin’s renewal process, smooths the skin surface, and increases moisture levels.
Who is Cica cream recommended for?
Ideal for sensitive, dry, and combination skin types. Its Centella Asiatica content soothes the skin, strengthens the barrier, and provides hydration.
How often should peeling be done?
1–2 times per week is sufficient. Excessive peeling weakens the skin barrier and increases breakouts.
Acne and breakouts are a problem, but they can be managed with the right skincare routine. The most important things are to know your skin, choose the right cleanser, use effective active ingredients like niacinamide and salicylic acid, and never skip moisturizing.
Remember that acne treatment requires patience — results usually become visible after 4–6 weeks. Regular care, proper nutrition, and drinking enough water — these three steps are the most reliable path to clean and healthy skin. If your breakouts are severe and you cannot get results with home care, be sure to consult a dermatologist.
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