What is Acne Vulgaris? Causes, Types & Best Treatments for Clear Skin

If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and noticed pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads, chances are you’ve had acne vulgaris. It’s the most common type of acne—affecting up to 85% of people between the ages of 12 and 24—but its impact goes far beyond just the skin.

At HiPer, we believe in going deeper than surface-level solutions. So, let’s break down exactly what acne vulgaris is, why it happens, and what you can do about it.

Understanding Acne Vulgaris

Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil (sebum) and dead skin cells. It can appear on the face, chest, back, and shoulders—areas with a high concentration of sebaceous (oil) glands.

It manifests in various forms, including:

Blackheads (open comedones)
Whiteheads (closed comedones)
Papules – small red bumps
Pustules – papules with pus
Nodules and cysts – deep, painful lumps under the skin

These types of acne range from mild to severe and can lead to pigmentation, scarring, and emotional distress if not managed properly.

Why Does Acne Vulgaris Happen?

Acne is not just about poor hygiene or eating junk food (though those can contribute in some cases). The real causes are multifactorial and often internal. Here are the key triggers:

Excess Sebum Production

Hormonal changes, particularly during puberty, menstruation, or stress, can trigger oil glands to produce more sebum. This excess oil clogs pores and creates a breeding ground for bacteria.

Follicular Hyperkeratinization

This is a fancy term for when dead skin cells don’t shed properly. Instead of falling off, they stick together and block the follicle opening.

Bacterial Growth

The skin naturally hosts a bacteria called Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes). When pores are clogged, this bacteria multiplies and triggers inflammation.

Inflammation

Your body’s immune system responds to clogged pores and bacterial overgrowth with inflammation, resulting in the red, swollen pimples we associate with acne.

Who Gets Acne Vulgaris?

Almost everyone at some point. However, certain factors increase your risk:

Teenagers (thanks to hormonal surges)
People with a family history of acne
Individuals using heavy cosmetics or skincare products
Women experiencing hormonal fluctuations
Those living in hot, humid climates
People with high stress levels or poor sleep hygiene

Myths vs. Facts About Acne

There are plenty of misconceptions about acne. Let’s bust a few:

Myth: Acne is caused by dirty skin.
Fact: Over-washing can actually irritate your skin and worsen acne.

Myth: Only teenagers get acne.
Fact: Adult acne is increasingly common, especially in women.

Myth: Sun exposure helps clear acne.
Fact: UV exposure might temporarily dry out pimples, but it increases the risk of pigmentation and long-term skin damage.

Myth: Popping pimples helps them heal faster.
Fact: Popping increases inflammation, infection risk, and scarring.

How to Treat Acne Vulgaris Effectively

Treating acne vulgaris is about balance—clearing breakouts without damaging your skin barrier. Here’s a structured approach:

1. Gentle Cleansing

Use a pH-balanced, non-comedogenic cleanser twice a day to remove dirt and oil without stripping the skin.

HiPer’s Cleanser is formulated to purify without causing dryness, making it ideal for acne-prone skin.

2. Exfoliation (with caution)

Chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid or lactic acid help clear pores and improve texture. But overdoing it can damage the barrier.

Topical Treatments

Benzoyl Peroxide: Kills bacteria and reduces inflammation.
Retinoids (like adapalene): Increase cell turnover and prevent clogged pores.
Niacinamide: Calms inflammation and controls oil.
Azelaic Acid: Fights bacteria and reduces post-acne marks.

HiPer’s targeted serums combine multi-actives like niacinamide, azelaic acid, and biotics to give your skin comprehensive care.

3. Moisturize Always

Even oily skin needs hydration. Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers with ingredients like glycerin, squalane, and ceramides.

4. Sun Protection

Use a broad-spectrum SPF daily. Some acne treatments make skin more sensitive to sunlight.

Spoiler: HiPer is working on a sunscreen just for acne-prone skin. Stay tuned!

5. Oral Medications (for moderate to severe cases)

Dermatologists may prescribe:

Oral antibiotics (like doxycycline)
Hormonal therapy (like birth control or spironolactone)
Isotretinoin (for severe nodulocystic acne)
The HiPer Approach to Acne

At HiPer, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Acne isn’t just about what’s on your skin—it’s also about what’s happening beneath it. That’s why our products are:

Backed by science
Enriched with biotics to support your skin microbiome
Free from harsh irritants, parabens, and sulfates

We also offer the HiPer Challenge, a 28-day program combining AI skin analysis, dermatologist guidance, and personalized regimens with a money-back guarantee—because results matter.

Final Thoughts

Acne vulgaris is complex, but it’s also manageable. The key is understanding your skin, being consistent, and choosing products that support—not sabotage—your skin barrier.

And remember: acne doesn’t define you. It’s a condition, not a flaw. Whether you’re dealing with a few whiteheads or a full-blown breakout, HiPer is here to help you heal your skin, your way.

Ready to Take Control of Your Acne?

Start with the HiPer cleanser and treatment combo and join the HiPer Challenge to finally see lasting results. Because you deserve high-performance skincare that meets you where you are—acne and all.