Acne
Learn about acne causes, symptoms, and treatment options. From mild blackheads to cystic breakouts — understand your skin and find the right treatment at Lovina Clinic.
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Disclaimer: All information and images are for educational purposes. Please consult a certified doctor for medical advice.
What Is Acne?
Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil (sebum) and dead skin cells. It manifests in various forms including blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. Acne most commonly affects the face, forehead, chest, upper back, and shoulders.
While acne is most prevalent during adolescence due to hormonal changes, it can persist into adulthood or even appear for the first time in your 30s or 40s. Adult acne is particularly common in women and is often linked to hormonal fluctuations, stress, and lifestyle factors.
Acne is not dangerous, but it can cause permanent scarring and significant emotional distress. Understanding your acne type and its underlying causes is the first step toward effective treatment.
Common Symptoms
Acne symptoms vary depending on severity:
- Blackheads (open comedones): Small, dark bumps on the skin surface caused by clogged follicles.
- Whiteheads (closed comedones): Small, flesh-coloured bumps with no visible opening.
- Papules: Small, red, tender bumps indicating inflammation.
- Pustules: Papules with pus at the tip (what most people call pimples or zits).
- Nodules: Large, painful, solid lumps deep under the skin.
- Cysts: Deep, painful, pus-filled lesions that can cause scarring.
How Acne Is Diagnosed
Acne is diagnosed through a visual examination of your skin. Your doctor will assess the types of lesions present, their distribution on your body, and the severity of the condition. They will also ask about your medical history, skincare routine, diet, stress levels, and any medications you are taking. In some cases, especially in women with sudden or severe acne, blood tests may be recommended to check hormone levels.
Acne Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type and severity of acne. Options include:
- Topical treatments: Retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and topical antibiotics to unclog pores and kill bacteria.
- Oral medications: Antibiotics, hormonal therapy (birth control pills, spironolactone), and isotretinoin for severe cases.
- Laser and light therapy: Reduces bacteria and inflammation, improves skin texture.
- Chemical peels: Exfoliate dead skin and unclog pores.
- Extraction: Professional removal of blackheads and whiteheads.
At Lovina Clinic, we create personalised treatment plans based on your skin type, acne severity, and lifestyle. We treat the root cause, not just the symptoms.
Common Acne Medications
Several prescription medications are effective for acne:
- Topical retinoids: Tretinoin, adapalene — unclog pores and normalise skin cell turnover.
- Benzoyl peroxide: Kills acne-causing bacteria and helps prevent resistance to antibiotics.
- Topical antibiotics: Clindamycin, erythromycin — reduce surface bacteria and inflammation.
- Oral antibiotics: Doxycycline, minocycline — for moderate to severe inflammatory acne.
- Isotretinoin: A powerful oral retinoid for severe, treatment-resistant acne. Requires close medical supervision.
- Hormonal therapy: Oral contraceptives or spironolactone for hormonal acne in women.
Lifestyle & Home Care
Support your medical treatment with these habits:
- Gentle cleansing: Wash your face twice daily with a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser. Avoid harsh scrubbing.
- Moisturise: Use an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturiser to maintain skin barrier health.
- Sun protection: Use a non-comedogenic sunscreen daily. Many acne medications increase sun sensitivity.
- Hands off: Avoid picking, squeezing, or touching pimples — this leads to scarring and spread of bacteria.
- Diet: Some people benefit from reducing high-glycaemic foods and dairy. Speak to your doctor about dietary changes.
- Stress management: Stress increases cortisol, which can worsen acne. Incorporate relaxation techniques into your routine.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acne
What causes acne?
+Does chocolate cause acne?
+Can acne be cured permanently?
+How long does acne treatment take to work?
+Does popping pimples make acne worse?
+Struggling with Acne?
You don't have to face it alone. Book an appointment at Lovina Clinic for a personalised acne treatment plan.
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