SKIN CONDITIONS
Acne
Acne is a common condition, mainly affecting the face with pustules, blackheads and cysts.
- Most common in teenagers and young adults
- Can lead to long-term scarring
- Medical treatment and dermatologist referral where needed
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting up to 85% of people at some point in their life.
It’s most common during teenage years and young adulthood (although it can occur at any age), and often resolves by 25 years of age.
Who gets acne?
Acne is most common in teenagers. Hormones play a large role, as androgens increase the size of sebaceous glands, which then produce more oil. Adult acne (i.e. over 25 years old) is less common, and appears to affect women more commonly.
Several factors can make acne worse:
- Stress.
- Smoking.
- Thick and oily make-up and skin products.
- Certain foods.
What causes pimples and blackheads?
Acne pimples and blackheads form when hair follicles get blocked. The oil-producing sebaceous glands secrete oil into the follicle, and it accumulates. In some cases, bacteria in the follicle multiply, causing inflammation. When the pore is clogged but open, the visible sebum (oil) darkens, causing the appearance of a blackhead. In some cases, deep pimples form cysts, which have a high risk of causing scars.
MBBS, MA (Virtual Comm), Grad Cert Hlth Info, Grad Dip Comp Inf Sci
What does acne look like?
Young man with acne of the cheek
Young woman with acne on her cheek, showing papules (pink bumps), pustules and generalised inflammation
Acne of the forehead, showing open comedones, also known as blackheads
Cystic acne affecting the jawline
Our role in acne care
Our doctors provide general medical care for acne, usually for patients already attending the clinic. This may include topical treatment or antibiotics, with review of the response.
We do not prescribe isotretinoin (Roaccutane). We refer to a dermatologist when specialist care is needed. Laser treatment is rarely recommended for our acne patients.
Follow the treatment instructions discussed with your doctor and seek review if acne is worsening or causing scarring or distress.
Managing your acne
What you can do to help control acne symptoms
Avoid squeezing or picking pimples and harsh scrubbing, which can worsen irritation and scarring. Choose non-comedogenic skincare and cosmetics.
Keep skincare simple. Wash gently with lukewarm water and a non-comedogenic cleanser; avoid repeated washing and irritating products.
Treatments include mild salicylic acid preparations to unplug follicles, benzoyl peroxide cream or lotion and azelaic acid cream or lotion.
Scarring and wellbeing
Acne can leave indented or raised scars and persistent colour changes. It can also affect confidence and wellbeing. Tell your doctor if acne is causing distress or scarring so they can discuss treatment and, where appropriate, dermatologist referral.
We do not offer a comprehensive acne-scar revision service. Our scar care page explains the scope of our procedural scar care.
Discuss acne treatment with our doctors
Our doctors can discuss ordinary medical acne treatment and arrange dermatologist referral where appropriate.
Find out about our skin condition assessment