DON’T LET WINTER BREAKOUTS WIN IN ACNE AWARENESS MONTH

June is Acne Awareness Month, an annual campaign dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding acne and educating people about this condition. This common skin condition affects over 85% of Australians at some point in their lives.

While summer humidity gets a lot of blame for breakouts, winter can be just as tough on acne-prone skin. Reduced UV exposure, dry indoor heating, and friction from scarves and beanies create the perfect storm for clogged pores, inflammation, and imbalanced skin.

That’s why DermaAngel is championing Acne Awareness Month with its complete, clinically backed acne care range. These products are designed to gently and effectively treat the skin, even in harsh winter conditions.

Acne isn’t just about the occasional pimple. It’s a chronic, inflammatory condition that can have real psychological impacts.

Studies show that people with moderate to severe acne are at higher risk of anxiety, low self-esteem, and even depression. It’s not just a teenage phase, as it can persist into adulthood.

Hormones are one of the biggest drivers of acne, which is why it often flares during puberty, pregnancy, or around periods.

Androgens increase sebum production, which in turn clogs pores and fuels the growth of acne-causing bacteria. It’s biology, not bad hygiene, so blaming someone for having acne is both wrong and unhelpful.

Another common misconception is that scrubbing harder or using harsh products will clear breakouts faster. In reality, over-cleansing or using drying treatments can strip the skin barrier, causing even more oil production and irritation.

A gentle approach is often more effective—think low-pH cleansers, salicylic acid, or niacinamide.

Diet also plays a role for some people, although it’s not as simple as “chocolate causes pimples.”

High-glycaemic foods, sugary drinks, and excess dairy have been linked to acne in some studies, but triggers vary from person to person. It’s about observing your patterns without resorting to fad diets or extreme restrictions.

Stress is another major but underrated factor. Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, which can cause the sebaceous glands to become overactive.

And let’s face it, there’s nothing like a looming work deadline or family drama to guarantee a breakout on your chin. Learning to manage stress isn’t just good for your head; it can help your skin, too.

Acne also has multiple types: blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. Not all breakouts are created equal. Cystic acne, for example, is deep, painful, and far more likely to scar. That’s why over-the-counter treatments may not cut it for everyone—some cases really do need professional care.

Acne Awareness Month is about pushing back on the shame. Nobody chooses to have acne. Education matters so people can treat it effectively and kindly, without the toxic culture of blaming or belittling sufferers.

At the end of the day, good acne care is about consistency, patience, and self-compassion.

Whether it’s a simple skincare routine or prescription treatment, there’s no shame in needing help to manage your skin. Breaking the stigma is the first step toward better outcomes for everyone.

In a recent comparative test, DermaAngel’s pimple patches were found to be the thinnest, most absorbent, and most adhesive among local competitors, making them the top choice for discreet and effective treatment.

Rooted in the globally popular T-Beauty (Taiwanese Beauty) movement, DermaAngel’s approach combines advanced technology, gentle formulations, and natural ingredients to deliver professional-grade solutions for everyday acne care.