How Acne Forms And Step By Step Care

First published: 2020-07-01 / Last reviewed: 2026-05-28

This is an Acne Peel guide compiled by Dr. Choi Byeong-geun of SHINE U Clinic Konkuk (3 minutes walk from Konkuk Univ. Station Exit 1).

As mask-wearing has become prolonged, concerns about acne have increased. Many people, in a hurry, try to squeeze acne with their hands or cotton swabs, but forcibly squeezing it can lead to secondary infection or scarring. This article summarizes the process of acne formation and management strategies for each stage.

How Acne Forms

Acne develops through several stages.

1. Sebum secretion increases due to internal and external factors and accumulates in the pores.
2. Increased sebum causes surface dead skin cells to block the pores.
3. Acne bacteria develop within the blocked pores.
4. Acne bacteria proliferate, leading to inflammation and breakouts.

Breaking this cycle is the key to stage-by-stage management.

Stage 1: BHA Peeling

The first stage is peeling to clear out waste products in the pores.

• BHA is a dead skin cell management ingredient with salicylic acid as its main component.
• Being oil-soluble, it penetrates deep into the pores to dissolve whiteheads and blackheads.
• It helps reduce oiliness and thoroughly cleanses the pores.

Stage 2: Full-face Extraction

Next is proper extraction.

• It is performed using methods suitable for your skin condition.
• Forcibly squeezing at home can lead to spread, scarring, hyperpigmentation, or worsening inflammation.
• Professional extraction can help prevent secondary infections and recurrence.

For more details, please refer to Extraction. If you are curious about the extraction method suitable for your skin, please check Consult about acne management [blocked].

Stage 3: LED Soothing Care

The final stage is soothing and regenerating irritated skin.

• It calms skin irritated during the management process.
• It can help improve sebum secretion and manage acne bacteria.
• It also works for regeneration and scar management.

For LED regeneration care, please refer to Regeneration Laser.

Reasons for Dividing Stages

There is a reason for performing these three stages together.

• It breaks the cycle by clearing the cause, extracting, and soothing.
• Managing recurrence is difficult with only one stage.
• The combination and intensity are adjusted while observing the skin condition.

The longer you worry about acne, the more likely it is to leave marks. If you are curious about a stage-by-stage plan suitable for your skin, please feel free to inquire via Ask about my acne management [blocked].

Authored by: Dr. Choi Byeong-geun (Chief Director of SHINE U Clinic Konkuk / Member of Korean Academy of Laser Dermatology and Hair, Korean Academy of Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery Laser Medicine, Korean Academy of Filler, etc.) Last reviewed: 2026-05-28

This article provides general procedure information and does not replace diagnosis or treatment. The suitability and results of the procedure may vary depending on the individual.