Acne
0 Treatments
5 FAQs
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. It can cause spots, pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and deeper cysts, often appearing on the face, back, chest, and shoulders. Acne affects people of all ages but is most common during adolescence due to hormonal changes.
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Treatments (0)
Advice for Acne
Acne varies in severity and type, with common symptoms including:
- Blackheads (open comedones) – Small, dark spots caused by clogged pores exposed to air.
- Whiteheads (closed comedones) – Small, flesh-coloured or white bumps from blocked pores.
- Papules – Small, red, inflamed bumps that may feel tender.
- Pustules (pimples) – Red bumps with pus at the tip.
- Nodules – Large, painful lumps under the skin.
- Cystic acne – Deep, pus-filled, painful lesions that can lead to scarring.
Acne may also cause skin sensitivity, redness, and inflammation, particularly in severe cases.
Acne FAQs (5)
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria. This can lead to the formation of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, or nodules. Acne typically affects the face, chest, back, and shoulders.
Acne is caused by several factors, including:
- Excess oil production: Overactive sebaceous (oil) glands can lead to clogged pores.
- Dead skin cells: When skin cells don’t shed properly, they can clog hair follicles.
- Bacteria: The buildup of bacteria in clogged pores can lead to inflammation and infection.
- Hormonal changes: Increased hormones during puberty, menstruation, or pregnancy can trigger acne.
- Diet and lifestyle: Stress, a poor diet (high in sugar or dairy), and lack of sleep can contribute to acne.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as steroids or birth control pills, may cause acne flare-ups.
Common symptoms of acne include:
- Pimples or pustules (red, swollen bumps filled with pus)
- Blackheads (small black dots on the skin)
- Whiteheads (small, white bumps)
- Cysts or nodules (painful, large, deep lumps under the skin)
- Oily skin
- Scarring or dark spots (post-acne marks)
While acne can’t always be fully prevented, you can reduce the risk of flare-ups by:
- Keeping the skin clean and washing gently with a mild cleanser twice a day
- Avoiding touching or picking at acne to prevent spreading bacteria and scarring
- Using oil-free and non-comedogenic skincare products
- Managing stress and getting enough sleep
- Eating a balanced diet with minimal sugary or greasy foods
Acne treatments can take time to show results. Topical treatments usually take 4 to 6 weeks to start improving the skin, while more aggressive treatments like oral medications or laser therapy may take a few months. Consistency and patience are key to successful treatment.
