Skin

Acne

Acne is a chronic skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. It causes whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, nodules, and cysts. Acne commonly appears on the face, forehead, chest, upper back, and shoulders. While it primarily affects teenagers, it can occur at any age.

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Symptoms

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Causes

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Treatments

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Prevention

Condition Overview

Understand key symptoms, causes, diagnosis options, and treatment pathways for Acne. This overview is intended for patient awareness and should be followed by specialist consultation.

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Symptoms

  • Whiteheads (closed plugged pores)
  • Blackheads (open plugged pores)
  • Pimples (papules)
  • Pustules (papules with pus)
  • Nodules (large solid painful lumps)
  • Cystic lesions (painful, pus-filled lumps)

Causes

  • Excess sebum production
  • Hair follicles clogged by sebum and dead skin cells
  • Bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes)
  • Hormonal changes
  • Inflammation

Diagnosis

  • Physical examination of skin
  • Skin culture if bacterial infection suspected

Treatment

  • Topical treatments (benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinoids, antibiotics)
  • Oral antibiotics
  • Hormonal therapies (oral contraceptives, spironolactone)
  • Isotretinoin (for severe acne)
  • Procedures (chemical peels, laser therapy, drainage)

Risk Factors

  • Hormonal changes (puberty, menstrual cycle, pregnancy)
  • Certain medications (corticosteroids, testosterone)
  • Diet (possibly high-glycemic foods, dairy)
  • Stress
  • Family history

Prevention

  • Wash skin gently twice daily
  • Use oil-free, water-based makeup
  • Remove makeup before bed
  • Shower after sweating

Prevalence

Affects approximately 9.4% of the global population; up to 85% of young people aged 12–24 experience acne.

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Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars

Keloids are raised overgrowths of scar tissue that occur at the site of a skin injury. Unlike hypertrophic scars, keloids grow beyond the original wound boundaries and do not regress over time. They result from an overproduction of collagen during wound healing. Keloids can cause discomfort and cosmetic concerns.

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