Acne: A personal Journey

As we transition into the cooler months, there’s no better time to reflect, reset, and invest in the health of our skin. At FENN, winter marks a season of intention—where thoughtful planning and targeted, results-driven treatments take centre stage. With less heat and sun exposure, the skin naturally retains less inflammation, making it an ideal time to explore more advanced therapies that may require a touch more recovery.

This deeply personal piece was written by Brooke, one of our Senior Skin Therapists. In it, she shares her own journey with acne throughout her late twenties—not only as a reflection on how far she’s come, but as a way to offer guidance and solidarity to anyone walking a similar path. Her story is a powerful reminder that healing is rarely linear, and that the relationship we have with our skin is both personal and ever-evolving.

Whether you’re navigating skin challenges yourself or simply seeking clarity on where to begin, Brooke’s experience is both relatable and reassuring. We hope it sparks the beginning of a more compassionate and informed journey—one where you feel supported, seen, and empowered every step of the way.

As I approach the final days of my twenties, I’ve found myself reflecting on the last few years—particularly how profoundly my skin has changed, and how those changes have shaped my relationship with myself and my confidence. The photo above was taken exactly one year apart. For someone whose work revolves around observing skin—my own and others’—the progress I’ve made feels deeply affirming.

Though my journey with acne is ongoing, it’s far more manageable than it was just two or three years ago. I never imagined I’d be the person grappling with cystic acne after coming off the contraceptive pill, nor did I fully understand the length and complexity of the path ahead. But I knew returning to the pill wasn’t an option. My decision to come off it was rooted in a desire to reconnect with myself—to feel my emotions fully and be in tune with my natural cycle.

My first attempt to stop the pill was in late 2019 or early 2020. But with the arrival of COVID and the onset of lockdowns, the emotional impact of navigating skin challenges in isolation was overwhelming. At the time, under medical advice, I returned to the pill—but I always knew it was a temporary solution.

By 2023, I was ready to try again—this time with a different approach. I was deeply committed, both mentally and physically, and surrounded myself with a team of natural health professionals. I worked closely with a naturopath and an acupuncturist, while also treating my skin in-clinic with microneedling, IPL laser, intensive chemical peels, regular facials, and a comprehensive at-home regimen. While I began to see small improvements, I underestimated the level of stress and inflammation my body was under—and how much more was to come.

Towards the end of 2023, my physical and mental health began to decline, largely due to the emotional demands of a job I genuinely loved. Making the decision to leave was heartbreaking, but necessary in order to protect my well-being.

Which brings me to 2024—a year of renewal. A few significant life changes helped alleviate the pressure I’d been under. I began addressing underlying gut issues with a new naturopath, re-evaluated my skincare philosophy, and embraced a more pared-back, intuitive routine. I returned to cosmeceuticals slowly, and the introduction of prescription retinol proved transformative. In-clinic, I shifted toward more supportive treatments like microneedling with exosomes and gentler peels such as BioRePeel, while continuing regular facials. At home, I incorporated full-body lymphatic drainage, which has been grounding on many levels.

If I could say one thing to my younger self, it would be this: listen to Dad, and stop picking your skin. I’d tell her again and again.

There’s no greater feeling than witnessing real, lasting progress—however gradual it may be. This journey has profoundly shifted my sense of self-worth. I still experience breakouts from time to time, but I’ve made peace with that. And if sharing this helps even one person feel less alone in their experience, then it’s worth every word.

Brooke xx