Acne
Acne is a common skin condition where hair follicles become blocked with oil and dead skin cells, leading to blackheads, whiteheads, and inflamed spots.
Overview
Acne is a common skin condition where hair follicles become blocked with oil and dead skin cells, leading to blackheads, whiteheads, and inflamed spots. It affects about 85% of Australians aged 15–24 but can persist into adulthood. While it’s not dangerous, acne can cause scarring and significant emotional distress.
Common Misunderstandings
Acne is often blamed solely on poor hygiene or “teen hormones.” In reality, genetics, hormones, skin oil production, inflammation, diet, and the skin microbiome all play a role. Many patients feel frustrated after trying multiple creams or antibiotics with only temporary benefit — often without addressing root contributors.
How is Acne Linked to Your Microbiome?
- Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes) is part of normal skin flora, but certain strains are linked to acne flare-ups while others may be protective¹.
- Reduced diversity of the skin microbiome may make the skin more prone to inflammation.
- Gut–skin axis research shows that gut microbiome imbalances can influence skin inflammation via immune and hormonal pathways².
- Diets high in refined carbohydrates and dairy may alter gut and skin bacteria, increasing inflammation.
Symptoms
Blackheads
Whiteheads
Red, inflamed spots
Deeper nodules
Deeper cysts
Oily skin
Tenderness in affected areas
The Microbiome Clinic™
Our treatment approach for Acne includes:
Gut Microbiome Test
The Gut Microbiome Test identifies imbalances and pathogens in the gut flora to explain symptoms and guide precise, personalised treatment and prevention.
Targeted Antimicrobial Strategies
Antibiotics and plant-based/pharmaceutical antimicrobials (where appropriate) to reduce the overgrown population of unwanted bacteria in the gut and skin.
Probiotics and Prebiotics
Targeted probiotics and prebiotics are introduced slowly to restore balance and biodiversity of microbes in the gut and skin without fuelling overgrowth.
Individualised Nutrition Plans
Recommendations based on the latest science to enhance the effectiveness of the Repair-4™ and maintenance programs prescribed by your doctor.
References
¹Dreno B, et al. Nat Rev Microbiol. 2016;14:673–687. doi:10.1038/nrmicro.2016.6.
²Salem I, et al. Front Microbiol. 2018;9:808. doi:10.3389/fmicb.2018.00808.