Acne Flare
During an acne flare-up, the most effective approach is to calm inflammation, clear congestion and prevent future breakouts. Recommended treatments include:
✔ An Acne Facial to deeply cleanse the skin, remove blockages and soothe irritated areas.
✔ A Medical-grade skin peel can then help accelerate cell turnover, reduce active blemishes and improve overall clarity.
✔ For more persistent or inflamed acne, BBL laser treatment is an excellent option at the Surrey Clinic to target bacteria, redness and post-acne marks.
✔ If breakouts are more severe or recurring, we may advise booking a Dermatology consultation to assess underlying causes and create a tailored treatment plan.
✔ If you are unsure where to start – book an in-person or virtual first steps consultation with founder Holly and she will advise the most appropriate course of action.
Understanding Acne Flare-Ups
Even when your acne is under control, flare-ups can still happen — and we’re here to help you manage them. At The Skin Investment Clinic, we understand how frustrating it can be when your skin suddenly breaks out again, and our acne experts are ready to guide you through the causes and solutions.
What Causes Acne Flare-Ups?
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes are one of the most common triggers for acne flare-ups. When hormone levels fluctuate — for example during puberty, menstrual cycles, stress, pregnancy or certain medical conditions — the skin can produce more oil and become more inflamed. This excess oil, combined with a faster build-up of dead skin cells, can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Understanding how your hormones impact your skin helps us tailor treatment and keep flare-ups under control.
Stress
When you’re stressed, your body releases higher levels of cortisol — a hormone that increases inflammation and triggers your oil glands to produce more sebum. This combination creates the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive, leading to clogged pores and breakouts.
Technology & Bacteria
Your mobile phone is one of the dirtiest objects you touch every day — often covered in bacteria that can transfer directly to your skin when you make a call. Regularly cleaning your phone can help reduce this often-overlooked acne trigger.
Diet
What you eat plays a big role in your skin health. Diets high in refined carbohydrates and sugar can spike insulin levels, increasing androgen hormones that boost oil production and inflammation — two major contributors to acne flare-ups.
Pollution
Environmental pollution and daily exposure to urban air can clog pores, irritate the skin, and increase inflammation, making it harder for acne-prone skin to stay clear and balanced.
How we can help
At The Skin Investment Clinic, we take a holistic approach to acne treatment — helping you identify your triggers, rebalance your skin, and keep future flare-ups under control with personalised care and evidence-based solutions.
Proven Secrets: Eliminating Acne and Scarring eBook
Take a look at clinic founder, Holly Mason’s, recently published book about proven secrets in eliminating acne and scarring.
Free Download: Acne Top Tips
Acne can be controlled but not cured. Seeking and following professional advice and having the right treatment plan are key to managing and keeping it under control.