Acne
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions worldwide, affecting people of all ages. It causes spots, oily skin, and sometimes painful or inflamed lumps, most often on the face, back, and chest. With the right treatment plan, acne is very manageable.
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This page provides general health information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
What is acne?
Acne develops when hair follicles become blocked with oil and dead skin cells, leading to whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, or deeper cystic lumps. It is most common on the face, chest, and back — areas with the highest concentration of oil glands.
While often associated with puberty, acne affects adults too, including women experiencing hormonal changes related to pregnancy, menstrual cycles, or menopause. Untreated acne can lead to permanent scarring, which is why early treatment matters.
Symptoms
- Whiteheads and blackheads (non-inflammatory spots)
- Red, tender pimples or pustules
- Large, painful nodules or cysts beneath the skin
- Oily or shiny skin, particularly on the face
- Scarring or dark marks left after spots heal
Causes & triggers
Acne has several contributing factors:
- Excess sebum (oil) production stimulated by hormonal changes
- Blocked pores caused by dead skin cells and bacteria
- Hormonal fluctuations — particularly androgens during puberty, menstruation, or pregnancy
- Stress, which increases cortisol and can worsen breakouts
- Certain medications including steroids and some contraceptives
- Diet — some people find high-glycaemic foods or dairy products trigger flares
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if your acne is persistent, painful, leaving scars, or affecting your confidence and quality of life. Over-the-counter treatments are not always sufficient — prescription options are significantly more effective for moderate to severe acne.
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Treatment options
Treatment depends on the type and severity of acne. Options include:
- Topical retinoids and benzoyl peroxide for mild to moderate acne
- Antibiotic creams or oral antibiotics to reduce bacterial growth and inflammation
- Combined oral contraceptives for women with hormonally driven acne
- Isotretinoin (Roaccutane) for severe or cystic acne — highly effective but requires medical supervision
- Skin care advice on cleansing routines and non-comedogenic products
How eMedClinic can help
Our dermatologists provide online consultations for acne across all severity levels. We will assess your skin, identify the underlying cause, and create a personalised treatment plan — including prescriptions where appropriate. No need to travel to a clinic or navigate a foreign healthcare system.
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