Is It Acne or Just Congestion? Here’s How to Tell.
Educates readers on the difference between breakouts and congestion, common causes for each, and when to consider acne bootcamp or targeted treatments.
SKIN DEEP
Kristian Lonette
7/8/20251 min read
You’re breaking out. Again.
You’ve tried everything, but your skin still looks bumpy, feels rough, and won’t calm down.
Here’s the thing: you might be treating the wrong issue.
Not every breakout is acne.
Sometimes? It’s just congestion.
So… What’s Congestion?
Congestion is when your pores get clogged with oil, dead skin, or product buildup—but without inflammation.
It’s not painful, but your skin looks bumpy, dull, or uneven.
You’re probably dealing with congestion if you notice:
Tiny bumps that don’t pop
A rough texture across your cheeks or forehead
Whiteheads or blackheads that sit under the surface
Skin that looks dull even after moisturizing
And What’s Acne?
Acne is when the pore gets clogged and inflamed. It’s usually caused by hormones, stress, bacteria, or inflammation inside the body.
If it’s acne, you’ll likely see:
• Red or swollen pimples
• Painful bumps that sit deep under the skin
• Scarring or dark marks after breakouts
• Jawline or chin breakouts that flare monthly
Why This Matters:
If you treat congestion like acne, you could strip your skin barrier.
If you treat acne like congestion, you’ll never clear it fully.
Your skin needs different strategies for each—and knowing the difference changes everything.
💡 Pro Tip:
Not sure what you’re dealing with? That’s what consultations are for!
At Detroit Skintique, I assess your skin in person—no guesswork, no trial-and-error.
💬 Ready for answers (and a real plan)?
Book your New Client Consultation or Acne Evaluation today.