Acne
Acne is a common skin condition in which hair follicles become blocked with oil and dead skin, causing blackheads, whiteheads, pimples and, in more severe cases, deep painful lumps. It is most common in teenagers but often continues into adult life, especially in women. On dark skin each spot can leave a dark mark (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) that lasts months longer than the spot itself, and deep acne can scar or form keloids. Effective treatment is available; harsh scrubs, toothpaste and bleaching creams make it worse.
Find a Dermatology SpecialistSee a dermatologist by video on ClearSkinMedically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Blackheads and whiteheads
- Red or skin-coloured bumps and pus-filled spots
- Deep, painful lumps or cysts
- Dark marks where spots have healed
- Pitted or raised scars
- Spots on the face, chest, back and shoulders
- Flares before periods in women
When to See a Doctor
See a dermatologist if acne is not improving after two to three months of over-the-counter treatment, if it is leaving dark marks or scars, if it causes painful cysts, or if it is affecting your confidence. Women with acne and irregular periods or excess hair should be checked for PCOS. See a doctor if acne starts suddenly in adulthood alongside other changes in the body.
Treatment options
- Gentle cleansing, and moisturisers and sunscreen labelled non-comedogenic (they do not block pores)
- Topical retinoids such as adapalene
- Benzoyl peroxide and azelaic acid (azelaic acid also helps dark marks)
- Topical or oral antibiotics, for limited periods and combined with other treatments
- Hormonal treatment for some women
- Isotretinoin for severe or scarring acne, under specialist supervision
- Chemical peels and other procedures for dark marks and scars
Common Questions
Why do my pimples leave dark spots?
Inflammation triggers extra pigment in dark skin. The marks fade with time, but more slowly than the spots. Treating acne early, using sunscreen and not picking prevents most of them, and azelaic acid and retinoids help them fade.
Can I put toothpaste or lime on pimples?
No. These irritate and can burn the skin, leaving more dark marks. Proven treatments such as benzoyl peroxide and adapalene work better and more safely.
Is isotretinoin safe?
Isotretinoin is very effective for severe acne but must be prescribed and monitored by a doctor. It causes serious birth defects, so women must not become pregnant while taking it, and it needs regular check-ups.
Does diet cause acne?
Diet is not the main cause, but in some people sugary foods and dairy may make acne worse. Washing more often does not cure acne, and over-washing irritates the skin.
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