What Causes Hidden Acne? How to Treat It Effectively

Hidden acne is a common dermatological concern. Although it doesn’t appear clearly on the skin’s surface, it can still cause significant discomfort. This type of acne forms beneath the skin, creating a rough, uneven texture. If not treated properly, hidden acne may lead to inflammation, cystic acne, or pustules.
So, what are the main causes of hidden acne and how can it be effectively treated? Let’s explore the answers with HBIO Clinic in this article!

Causes of Hidden Acne

Hidden acne is a type of acne that commonly forms under the skin. It does not have a visible head but causes a rough and uncomfortable texture. Although hidden acne is not easily noticeable, if not properly cared for and treated, it can develop into cystic or pustular acne.

So, what are the causes of hidden acne? Below are some common reasons:

Clogged Pores

When pores are clogged by dirt, excess oil, dead skin cells, or unsuitable cosmetics, bacteria can grow under the skin and lead to hidden acne.

Not properly cleansing the skin—especially at the end of the day—can clog pores and create an opportunity for hidden acne to form.

Hormonal Changes

Hormones are an important factor that affects acne formation, especially during hormonal shifts such as puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or when taking birth control pills.

Hormonal changes can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce excess oil, which clogs pores and causes hidden acne.

Excess Oil and Overactive Sebaceous Glands

When the sebaceous glands produce too much oil, it can mix with dirt and dead skin cells, clog pores, and cause hidden acne.

People with oily skin are more likely to experience hidden acne.

Unhealthy Diet

A diet high in sugar, greasy foods, fast food, or processed foods can stimulate the body to produce more oil, contributing to hidden acne.

Studies also show that consuming too much dairy or foods with a high glycemic index (such as white starches) can worsen acne.

Stress and Tension

Stress is one of the main causes of hidden acne. When the body is under stress, the adrenal glands produce cortisol, a hormone that stimulates the sebaceous glands to secrete more oil, leading to clogged pores.

Prolonged stress increases the risk of acne.

Using Unsuitable Skincare Products

Using skincare products with harsh chemicals or not suitable for your skin type can disrupt oil production and cause hidden acne.

Some cosmetics or sunscreens can clog pores, creating favorable conditions for acne to form.

Improper Hygiene

Not cleansing your face properly at the end of the day or using unclean towels can cause bacteria, dirt, and oil to accumulate on the skin, allowing hidden acne to develop.

Also, touching your face frequently or not changing your pillowcase regularly can lead to bacterial and oil buildup, resulting in acne.

Weather Changes

Hot and humid or cold and dry weather can affect the skin and alter the activity of the sebaceous glands, causing hidden acne.

When the skin is not moisturized properly in cold weather or becomes dehydrated in hot weather, the oil glands may become overactive, leading to clogged pores.

How to Treat Hidden Acne Effectively

Effectively treating hidden acne requires patience and a suitable skincare routine. Although hidden acne is hard to see, it causes roughness and discomfort. If not properly treated, it may develop into inflamed or pustular acne.

Here are some methods to treat hidden acne effectively:

Proper Cleansing

Use a gentle cleanser that doesn’t dry out the skin and can deeply clean pores. Products containing salicylic acid (BHA) or benzoyl peroxide can help remove oil, dirt, and dead skin cells.

Exfoliate 1–2 times per week to remove dead skin cells, keep pores clear, and prevent hidden acne.

Use Products with BHA or AHA

Salicylic Acid (BHA) is oil-soluble and penetrates deeply into pores to remove oil and dead skin, helping to prevent hidden acne. Use BHA products 2–3 times a week.

Glycolic Acid (AHA) helps brighten the skin and remove surface dead skin cells. It smooths and evens skin tone and is usually used for mild acne and less oily skin.

Use Retinoids

Retinoids (Vitamin A) are effective in hidden acne treatment. They clean pores, promote skin regeneration, and prevent clogged pores. Retinoids can fade hidden acne and improve skin texture.

Note: Retinoids can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use them at night and combine with sunscreen during the day.

Use Clay Masks

Clay masks help absorb excess oil and deeply cleanse pores, making them effective in treating hidden acne—especially for oily skin.

You can use clay masks 1–2 times a week to reduce hidden acne and cleanse the skin.

Use Natural Remedies

Garlic has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help reduce hidden acne. You can apply fresh garlic to acne areas for 10–15 minutes or use garlic oil as a treatment.

Tea tree oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help cleanse the skin and reduce acne. Apply it directly to the areas with hidden acne to reduce inflammation and prevent acne.

Control Your Diet

Limit processed foods, fast food, sugar, and oily foods. Instead, eat more fruits, green vegetables, and foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E to improve skin health.

Drink enough water to keep your skin hydrated and help flush out toxins, reducing the risk of acne formation.

Be Patient and Avoid Popping Hidden Acne

Hidden acne takes time to treat, so it’s important to stay consistent with your skincare routine. Most importantly, avoid popping or squeezing the acne, as this can damage the skin and cause inflammation, making the condition worse.

Hidden Acne Treatments at HBIO Clinic

At HBIO Clinic, hidden acne treatment is performed through intensive procedures that combine modern technologies with specialized skincare products. Below are some effective treatment methods available at HBIO Clinic:

Express Acne Treatment

This method deeply cleanses the pores, removes excess oil and impurities that clog the skin. It helps prevent the development of hidden acne and reduces inflammation.

• Procedure: Involves using products that contain BHA or AHA (salicylic acid and glycolic acid) to cleanse the skin, combined with acne extraction and removal of impurities. These treatments promote skin regeneration and reduce the appearance of hidden acne.

Algae Peeling (Microneedling with Algae)

This method uses microneedling technology combined with marine algae to rejuvenate the skin and deeply cleanse, helping to unclog pores and prevent hidden acne.

• Procedure: Algae peeling stimulates collagen and new cell production while removing dead skin cells on the surface. This helps clear out clogged pores and effectively reduce hidden acne.

HydraFacial Treatment

HydraFacial is one of the most effective hidden acne treatments at HBIO Clinic. It deeply cleanses the skin, removes dead skin cells, hydrates, and brightens the skin.

• Procedure: The treatment uses vacuum suction technology to remove impurities, followed by serum infusion to nourish the skin, reduce hidden acne, and prevent future breakouts.

OxyJet Therapy

The OxyJet method infuses fresh oxygen into the skin, enhancing circulation and improving skin elasticity. It supports skin regeneration and helps reduce hidden acne.

• Procedure: OxyJet uses compressed oxygen technology to deliver fresh oxygen into the skin, helping to cleanse and soothe inflamed acne. This treatment is suitable for those with sensitive skin and mild hidden acne.

Chemical Peel

Chemical peeling uses various acids (such as AHA, BHA) to exfoliate the skin, remove dead surface layers, and unclog pores.

• Procedure: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, or salicylic acid are applied to deeply cleanse and promote skin renewal. This method removes dead skin cells, reduces inflammation, and clears clogged pores, which helps reduce hidden acne.

At HBIO Clinic, treatments like Acne Skincare, Algae Peeling, HydraFacial, and OxyJet work to deeply cleanse the pores, nourish the skin, and prevent hidden acne from developing. You can choose the method that suits your skin condition for optimal acne treatment results. However, for the best outcome, it is recommended to consult with the clinic’s skincare experts for a personalized treatment plan.

To treat hidden acne effectively, understanding its causes and following the right skincare methods is crucial. Alongside maintaining a consistent daily skincare routine, patience and choosing the proper treatment for your skin type are key. If your hidden acne doesn’t improve, seeking advice from a dermatologist will help you find the most suitable solution. Contact HBIO Clinic today for expert support in your hidden acne treatment journey!