acne risks and benefits for patients

Overview

Acne is a common skin condition that happens when your hair follicles become blocked with oil and dead skin cells. This can cause blackheads, whiteheads, spots, or painful red lumps. It usually appears on the face, chest, back, and shoulders.

Yes. Acne is one of the most common skin conditions. Most people will have at least a few spots during their lives.

Teenagers and young adults are most likely to get acne, but it can start in your 20s, 30s, or even older. Some women get acne around their period or during pregnancy.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Blackheads or whiteheads
• Small red, inflamed spots
• Pus-filled pimples
• Tender or painful bumps
• Deep, painful nodules or cysts under the skin
• Acne often appears on the face, forehead, chest, back, and shoulders

Symptoms in children

• Newborns can develop tiny white spots on the nose, chin, or cheeks; this is usually harmless and clears on its own.
• Older children before puberty can sometimes develop mild acne as their hormone levels begin to change.

Symptoms in older adults

• Adult acne can look like deep, tender spots or nodules, especially around the jawline, chin, and neck.
• It may flare around menstrual cycles or during times of stress.

Causes

Main causes

• Your skin produces natural oil (sebum) to keep it soft. Sometimes your skin makes too much oil.
• Dead skin cells mix with the oil and stick together, blocking the hair follicle.
• A type of bacteria on everyone’s skin can grow in the blocked pore and cause inflammation.
• Hormones can make your oil glands more active, which is why acne often begins during puberty.

Risk factors

• Family history – acne often runs in families.
• Hormonal changes, like puberty, menstrual periods, pregnancy, or polycystic ovary syndrome.
• High stress levels, which can make acne worse.
• Using oily or thick cosmetics, especially ones that block pores.
• Sweating heavily or wearing tight clothing that rubs the skin.
• Some medicines can cause acne as a side effect. Always tell your doctor about any health conditions.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you think a spot has become infected (increasing redness, warmth, swelling, yellow pus, fever), contact your doctor surgery or local health service the same day.

Book a routine appointment if:

• See a doctor if acne does not improve after six to eight weeks of using self-care products from the pharmacy, leaves scars, is very painful, or is affecting your mood and self-esteem. Also see a doctor if you are an adult and severe acne develops suddenly.

Diagnosis

A doctor can usually diagnose acne by simply looking at your skin. They may ask about your history, when spots started, and what makes them better or worse.

Tests that may be done

• Usually no tests are needed. If your doctor suspects a hormonal cause, they may order blood tests.

What to expect at your appointment

Your consultation will likely be relaxed and quick. The doctor will look at your face, chest, or back, ask you a few questions, and discuss which treatment approach might suit you. If the acne is severe or not improving, they may refer you to a skin specialist (dermatologist).

Treatment

Acne treatment works by reducing oil, unclogging pores, fighting bacteria, and lowering inflammation. Some treatments you apply to the skin; others are taken by mouth. It can take several weeks before you see improvement, so patience is important.

Self-care at home

• Wash your face gently twice a day with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser. Avoid very hot water and harsh scrubbing.
• Use a non-oily moisturiser designed for acne-prone skin.
• Try not to pick, squeeze, or pop spots – this makes them worse and can cause scarring.
• Shower soon after exercise to remove sweat from your skin.
• Use so-called "non-comedogenic" skincare and makeup (meaning products that do not block pores).

Medical treatments

Your doctor or pharmacist can explain the different types of topical treatments (creams, gels, lotions) and, if needed, oral medicines. Some treatments contain ingredients that dermatologists have used safely for many years. For severe acne, a specialist may discuss other options, such as prescription tablets, hormonal therapies, or light-based procedures. Always follow the advice of your healthcare professional about which products suit your skin type and how to use them.

When is surgery considered?

It is not usually needed. However, for very large, painful cysts, a doctor may sometimes drain them. For acne scars, a dermatologist may offer procedures like laser, needling, or chemical peels.

Living with this condition

Living with acne can be frustrating, but a steady routine helps. Stick to your gentle skin care plan, avoid touching your face, and be consistent with any products recommended by your doctor. Give treatments time to work.

Lifestyle tips

• Try to manage stress with exercise, breathing exercises, or talking to someone.
• Get enough sleep – tiredness can make skin look worse.
• Wash make-up brushes regularly and avoid sharing them.
• Wear non-tight clothing for areas like the back or chest.

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet with lots of vegetables, fruit, and whole grains is good for your overall health. There is no strong proof that chocolate or greasy food causes acne, but some people notice that high-sugar foods seem to make spots worse. Exercise helps you feel better, but always shower afterwards.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Acne can affect how you feel about yourself. It is normal to feel self-conscious, anxious, or even low. If these feelings are becoming overwhelming, talk to your doctor, a friend, or a counsellor. If you ever have thoughts about harming yourself, please reach out to your local mental health crisis service or call your local emergency number right away.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent acne, but you can reduce flare-ups by using gentle skin care, avoiding pore-blocking products, not picking spots, and knowing your triggers. These habits can also help keep mild acne from getting worse.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for acne.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for acne. However, it is still a good idea to keep an eye on changing moles or any unusual skin changes and show them to your doctor.

Complications

If left untreated

• Permanent acne scars on the face, chest, or back.
• Dark or discoloured patches of skin after spots heal (this is more common in darker skin tones).
• Painful, large cysts that can become infected.
• Emotional strain – including lower confidence, anxiety, or depression.

Long-term outlook

For most people, acne clears up or becomes much milder over time. Even if your acne persists into adulthood, today’s treatments are very effective. With the help of your healthcare team, you can find a plan that works for your skin. Stay consistent, be patient, and reach out for support if you need it.

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