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Acne
Moderate
Acne is a common skin condition that develops when hair follicles become blocked by oil and dead skin cells and become inflamed. It commonly affects the face, chest, shoulders, and back. Acne may produce blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, deeper nodules, or cysts and can sometimes lead to persistent scars or changes in skin color.
Body System
Skin Hair & Nails
When to Seek Medical Attention
Acne usually does not require emergency care. Seek medical evaluation if lesions become rapidly painful, extensively inflamed, infected, or associated with significant swelling or fever. Prompt treatment may also be appropriate when severe acne is causing scarring or substantial emotional distress.
Symptoms
2
Causes
0
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Acne is a common skin condition that develops when hair follicles become blocked by oil and dead skin cells and become inflamed. It commonly affects the face, chest, shoulders, and back. Acne may produce blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, deeper nodules, or cysts and can sometimes lead to persistent scars or changes in skin color.
Symptoms 2
Hair Loss
Severe Allergic Reaction
Causes
Acne involves blocked hair follicles, excess oil, retained dead skin cells, and inflammation. Bacteria normally present on the skin can multiply within blocked follicles. Hormonal changes can increase oil production and contribute to this process.
Risk Factors
Acne is most common in teenagers and young adults but can persist into adulthood. Hormonal changes, family history, and certain medicines can contribute. Stress, pressure on the skin, harsh scrubbing, and picking can worsen existing acne; they should not be presented as its sole underlying cause.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis usually involves examining the skin and asking about symptom duration, family history, medicines, and relevant hormonal history. The appearance of the lesions helps identify acne. Laboratory tests may be considered when another condition or medical disorder is suspected.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Skin care can reduce irritation but does not guarantee prevention of acne
Gentle cleansing and avoiding harsh scrubbing are appropriate
Products labelled non-comedogenic are intended not to block pores, although they may still worsen acne in some people
Avoid picking or squeezing lesions, which can contribute to scars or dark marks
Prevention Guidance
Skin care can reduce irritation but does not guarantee prevention of acne. Gentle cleansing and avoiding harsh scrubbing are appropriate. Products labelled non-comedogenic are intended not to block pores, although they may still worsen acne in some people. Avoid picking or squeezing lesions, which can contribute to scars or dark marks.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Fresh vegetables
Support skin health
Fresh fruits
Provide antioxidants
Water
Maintain hydration
Foods to Avoid
Sugary foods
May worsen acne
Fast food
May trigger breakouts
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Oil buildup, bacteria, and hormones contribute.
Yes, stress may trigger flare-ups.
No, squeezing may cause scarring.
Some individuals notice worsening with certain foods.
Yes, many effective treatments are available.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.