Acne Awareness Month 2025

Acne is one of the most common and most underestimated skin conditions worldwide. While often dismissed as a teenage issue, acne is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects people of all ages, genders, and skin types. For many, it’s more than just a skin concern: it can significantly impact mental health, confidence, and overall quality of life

That’s why Acne Awareness Month is so important. It’s a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness of the medical, psychological, and social challenges associated with acne.
At Cynosure Lutronic, we’re using this opportunity to spotlight advanced treatment options that support both patients and practitioners in tackling active acne and long-term scarring with safe, non-surgical technologies.

Understanding the scale – acne is not just for teenagers
Often considered as a condition that only impacts younger people, acne is increasingly recognised as a lifelong dermatological concern. Caused by a combination of blocked hair follicles, excess sebum, bacteria, and hormonal fluctuations, typical symptoms of acne include whiteheads, blackheads, pustules, and, in more severe cases, nodules and cysts that may lead to permanent scarring.

Acne frequently persists or develops in adulthood. In fact, diagnoses are rising globally, especially among women aged 25 to 45. According to The British Association of Dermatologists and the NHS, acne can be caused by a variety of triggers, including:

• Hormonal shifts (menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause)
• Chronic stress and cortisol imbalances
• Skincare product misuse or comedogenic ingredients
• Underlying medical conditions or medications

Common myths and misconceptions about acne
Acne Awareness Month is also about correcting long-standing misconceptions. Let’s take a look at some of the most common acne myths and the science that disproves them:

“Acne is caused by poor hygiene.”
The truth is that over-washing and harsh scrubbing can actually worsen acne by irritating the skin and stripping natural oils.

“Only teenagers get acne.”
Adult acne is not only common, it’s on the rise, especially in women between 25 and 45.

Our recent survey shows how acne impacts a wide demographic. Among those reporting acne or acne scarring:

• 35% were aged 25–34
• 31% were aged 35–44
• 22% were aged 45–54
• 12% were aged 55–65

“Acne is just a cosmetic issue.”
Acne is a medical condition linked to anxiety, depression, and poor quality of life.

“Acne only appears on the face.”
Acne commonly affects the back, chest, shoulders and neck as well.

The emotional and social toll of acne and scarring
Acne and its scarring can leave more than just physical marks. For many, these conditions result in significant emotional distress. Our recent survey shows:

• 70% said acne negatively affects their life
• 51% reported an impact on mental health
• 49% avoid being photographed
• 44% feel the need to cover up with makeup
• 24% avoid socialising altogether

Even after active breakouts decrease, there can be scarring, both visibly and emotionally. Patients often describe how scars contribute to ongoing self-consciousness and social withdrawal.

Why patients delay treatment

Despite the variety of effective treatments available, many patients delay seeking help due to shame, embarrassment, or the belief that “it’s not serious enough.” As professionals, it’s our responsibility to break this cycle. Acne care shouldn’t stop at symptom management, it should include support for patient wellbeing.

Effective treatment not only improves skin clarity but can also help to restore self-esteem and help towards a better quality of life.

Cynosure Lutronic’s technology: addressing active acne and scarring with confidence
At Cynosure Lutronic, we offer innovative, clinically supported technologies that allow professionals to treat both active acne and long-term scarring across a range of skin types and tones.

For active acne:

• Potenza (RF Microneedling) – Combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to regulate oil production, reduce inflammation, and speed up lesion healing – all with minimal downtime.
• DermaV – Uses dual-wavelength laser technology to reduce redness and vascular inflammation, particularly effective for sensitive and inflamed skin.
• LaseMD Ultra – A thulium laser that promotes gentle skin resurfacing, clears clogged pores, and enhances product absorption – ideal for acne-prone and oily skin.

For acne scarring:

• Potenza – Deep dermal stimulation improves the appearance of boxcar and ice pick scars with precision-adjusted depth and energy delivery.
• Genius (Intelligent RF Microneedling) – Real-time skin feedback ensures precise treatment of moderate to deep scars, with long-lasting skin remodelling.
• PicoSure Pro – Breaks up excess pigmentation and stimulates collagen with picosecond laser pulses, suitable for a range of scar types and skin tones.
• ECO2 (Fractional CO₂ Laser) – Ideal for deep or older scars, this technology offers dramatic skin renewal through advanced ablation and collagen regeneration.

Each treatment option allows professionals to tailor solutions to their patient’s skin condition, type, and goals.

Technology that supports long-term skin health and confidence
At Cynosure Lutronic, we understand that acne isn’t just a skin condition. It’s a deeply personal struggle that leaves lasting marks, both visible and invisible. That’s why patients deserve more than just treatment – they deserve compassion, care and solutions that make a difference.
We’re proud to offer non-invasive, device-led solutions that help clinics and practitioners treat:
Active acne through inflammation control, oil regulation, and bacterial management
Acne scarring through deep collagen stimulation and resurfacing

These solutions don’t just help clear skin. They help people look and feel like themselves again. To find out more, contact our team today to book a demo or access expert training and support.