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Acne

Condition Basics

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What is acne?

Acne, or acne vulgaris, is a skin problem that starts when oil and dead skin cells clog up your pores. Some people call it blackheads, blemishes, whiteheads, pimples, or zits. When you have just a few red spots, or pimples, you have a mild form of acne. Severe acne can mean hundreds of pimples that can cover the face, neck, chest, and back. Or it can be bigger, solid, red lumps that are painful (cysts).

Acne is very common among teens. It usually gets better after the teen years. Some adults have acne. Sometimes it appears right before the start of a menstrual period.

What causes it?

Acne starts when oil and dead skin cells clog, Opens dialog the skin's pores. This traps bacteria inside the pores causing swelling, redness, and pus. For most people, acne starts during the teen years. This is because hormone changes make the skin oilier after puberty starts.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of acne include whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples and cystic lesions. These can occur on the face, neck, shoulders, back, or chest. Mild acne usually causes only whiteheads and blackheads. Severe acne can produce hundreds of pimples that cover large areas of skin.

How is it diagnosed?

When you see a doctor about acne, you'll have a physical exam. Your doctor will ask you questions about your past and current health. The doctor may ask about your menstrual cycles. Most often, you won't have any special tests to diagnose acne.

How is acne treated?

To help control acne, keep your skin clean. Avoid skin products that clog your pores. Look for products that say "noncomedogenic" on the label. Wash your skin once or twice a day with a gentle soap or acne wash. Try not to scrub or pick at your pimples. This can make them worse and can cause scars.

If you have mild acne, you can get an acne cream without a prescription. Look for one that has adapalene, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid. These work best when they're used just the way the label says.

It can take time to get acne under control. But if nonprescription products haven't helped after 3 months, see your doctor. You may need different medicines or prescription medicines. The medicines may be creams or pills, and may include antibiotics or other medicines. Certain medicines, such as low-dose birth control pills or spironolactone, may help control acne for some women.

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Current as of: April 1, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.