Acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is a common skin condition that develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria. It commonly affects the face, forehead, chest, upper back, and shoulders, where the skin has a large number of oil-producing glands. Acne is particularly common during puberty because hormonal changes can increase oil production. However, it can affect people of any age, including adults. Acne may appear as blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or deeper, painful lumps and cysts. Although acne is not usually dangerous, severe or persistent acne can cause permanent scars and may affect a person’s confidence and emotional well-being. Early evaluation and appropriate treatment can help control breakouts and reduce the risk of scarring.
Whiteheads occur when a hair follicle becomes clogged with oil and dead skin cells and the opening remains closed. They appear as small, flesh-colored or whitish bumps.
Cysts are large, painful, pus-filled lesions that develop deep beneath the skin. Cystic acne can cause significant inflammation and is more likely to result in permanent scars.
Acne develops through a combination of factors that affect the hair follicles and oil-producing glands. Common causes and contributing factors include:
Excess oil production: Increased production of sebum can make it easier for pores to become clogged.
Dead skin cells:Dead skin cells can accumulate and combine with oil, blocking hair follicles.
Bacteria: The bacterium Cutibacterium acnes can contribute to inflammation within clogged follicles.
Hormonal changes: Increased androgen activity during puberty can stimulate the oil glands. Hormonal changes can also contribute to acne in some adults.
Family history: People with a close family history of acne may have a higher likelihood of developing it.
Certain medications: Some medicines, including corticosteroids and certain hormonal medications, may contribute to acne in some people.
Diet: Some studies suggest that diets high in refined carbohydrates and foods that cause rapid increases in blood sugar may be associated with acne in some individuals. The relationship between diet and acne varies from person to person.
Although acne is often associated with teenagers, it can continue into adulthood or begin for the first time during adulthood. Adult acne may be associated with hormonal fluctuations, certain medications, cosmetics, stress, or other factors. Women may experience acne around the time of menstruation or during other periods of hormonal change. Persistent or sudden-onset acne in adulthood may warrant evaluation by a healthcare professional, particularly when accompanied by other symptoms.
Acne is usually diagnosed by a dermatologist or other qualified healthcare professional by examining the skin. The doctor may assess:
The type of acne lesions
The severity of acne
The areas affected
The presence of inflammation
Any acne scars or pigmentation
Possible contributing factors
In most cases, special tests are not necessary. Additional evaluation may be recommended when acne is unusually severe, sudden, persistent, or associated with symptoms suggesting an underlying hormonal condition.
Treatment depends on the type and severity of acne, the person’s age, skin type, and whether scarring is present. Common treatment options may include:
If acne has resulted in permanent scarring, a dermatologist may recommend treatments such as chemical peels, microneedling, laser procedures, or other scar treatments depending on the type and severity of the scars.
Acne is a common skin condition in which hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, resulting in blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, nodules, or cysts.
Diet is not the only cause of acne. Some research suggests that diets high in refined carbohydrates may worsen acne in some people, but dietary triggers vary.
You should consider seeing a dermatologist if acne is severe, painful, persistent, causing scars, affecting your quality of life, or not improving with appropriate over-the-counter treatment.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have persistent, severe, painful, or scarring acne, consult a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist.
