Acne

Key takeaways

• Treatment should match lesion type and severity; comedonal, inflammatory and nodular acne do not respond identically.
• Improvement usually takes weeks, while picking and abrasive scrubbing increase irritation and scarring risk.
• New adult acne with irregular periods, excess facial hair or other hormonal symptoms may warrant further assessment.

The listings below are examples used for acne, but pregnancy, skin sensitivity and other medicines affect suitability.

What drives breakouts

Excess oil, blocked follicles, skin bacteria and inflammation all contribute. Hormonal changes can worsen breakouts around menstruation, pregnancy or after changing contraception. Cosmetics and hair products may also block follicles, but acne is not caused by poor hygiene.

Choosing an approach

Topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide and selected antibiotics have different roles. Combining agents may improve results and reduce antibiotic resistance, but irritation is common if several products are introduced at once. Deep nodules, scarring or persistent dark marks justify earlier clinical review.

When to seek urgent care

Acne rarely requires emergency care. Seek prompt assessment for fever with rapidly spreading redness, severe facial swelling, eye involvement, or a severe medicine reaction with blistering or breathing difficulty.