Cosmetic Dermatology
Acne Treatment
Acne can involve blackheads, inflamed spots or deeper painful lesions, and it may leave marks or scars. A dermatology consultation can help you understand the type and severity of acne and discuss a plan suited to your skin.
Understanding your skin
Acne can include blackheads, whiteheads, inflamed spots or deeper painful lumps. It affects teenagers and adults and is not simply caused by poor hygiene. Describe where it appears, whether it leaves marks or scars and which products or medicines you have tried.
Choosing and reviewing care
Depending on the type and severity, a clinician may discuss treatments applied to the skin or other medicines. Improvement takes time. Ask how to use the treatment, manage irritation and review progress. Tell the clinician if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding because some medicines are unsuitable.
Separating active acne from the marks it leaves
Blackheads, inflamed spots, deeper lumps, dark marks and scars are different concerns. A consultation should identify which are present before choosing a plan. Tell the clinician which areas are affected, whether breakouts hurt and whether they are leaving marks. Bring the names of previous products and how long you used them; a list is more helpful than simply saying that nothing worked.
Treatment for active breakouts may differ from care for remaining marks or scars. Ask which concern should be addressed first and what change you should look for at review. Mention how acne affects your confidence, school, work or social life as well as its appearance.
Making the routine manageable
Some treatments are applied to the skin; others may involve prescription tablets. The choice depends on the assessment and your medical circumstances. Ask how each product fits into cleansing, moisturising and sun protection, and what irritation would justify contacting the clinician. Adding several new products at once can make it harder to identify what is helping or causing trouble.
Agree when progress will be reviewed rather than switching products every few days. Tell the clinician if pregnancy is possible, you are planning a pregnancy or you are breastfeeding, because some acne medicines are unsuitable. Do not alter a prescription or combine leftover treatments without advice.
Frequently asked questions
Can adults get acne?
Yes. Acne can affect adults as well as teenagers. A clinician can assess the pattern and recommend suitable care.
How quickly will acne treatment work?
Improvement takes time and varies with treatment. Ask when to review progress and what irritation to expect.
Can acne treatment be used during pregnancy?
Some medicines are unsuitable during pregnancy. Tell the clinician if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Does acne mean poor hygiene?
No. Acne is not simply caused by poor hygiene. Scrubbing or picking can irritate the skin and increase the risk of scarring.
Sources and further reading
These sources provide general health information. Recommendations and services may differ by location; discuss your care with your clinician.