Dermatology · Skin health

Acne

Understand acne, its assessment and care suited to its severity.

Editorial publication · Medical review pending.

Understand

Acne is a common disorder of hair follicles and oil glands, mainly on the face, back and chest.

Blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules or cysts may occur and can leave marks.

Oil production, blocked follicles, inflammation and hormones contribute; acne is not caused by poor hygiene.

Diagnosis is usually based on the appearance, location and severity of the lesions.

Tests are usually unnecessary; targeted assessment may look for a hormonal or medicine-related factor.

The course varies; flares may continue for years and deep lesions can scar.

Depending on severity, care may include topical treatments, prescribed antibiotics or retinoids and scar prevention.

Seek advice for moderate, severe, painful or scarring acne, or if it affects wellbeing.

A major treatment reaction, facial swelling or breathing difficulty needs urgent help.

A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.