Diseases
acne
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Acne is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. It causes whiteheads, blackheads or pimples. Acne is most common among teenagers, though it affects people of all ages. Effective acne treatments are available, but acne can be persistent.
Symptoms
- whiteheads (closed plugged pores)
- blackheads (open plugged pores)
- small red, tender bumps (papules)
- pimples (pustules), which are papules with pus at their tips
- large, solid, painful lumps under the skin (nodules)
Causes
- excess oil (sebum) production
- hair follicles clogged by oil and dead skin cells
- bacteria, and inflammation
Risk factors
- family history.
- age. people of all ages can get acne, but it's most common in teenagers.
- hormonal changes. such changes are common during puberty or pregnancy.
Diagnosis
- signs and symptoms
- skin test
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is acne?
Acne is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. It causes whiteheads, blackheads or pimples. Acne is most common among teenagers, though it affects people of all ages. Effective acne treatments are available, but acne can be persistent.
What are the symptoms of acne?
whiteheads (closed plugged pores), blackheads (open plugged pores), small red, tender bumps (papules), pimples (pustules), which are papules with pus at their tips, large, solid, painful lumps under the skin (nodules)
What causes acne?
excess oil (sebum) production; hair follicles clogged by oil and dead skin cells; bacteria, and inflammation
Which medicines are used for acne?
adapalene, azelaic acid, benzoyl peroxide, benzoyl peroxide-erythromycin, clindamycin, dapsone, doxycycline, erythromycin, ethinyl estradiol-drospirenone, isotretinoin, minocycline, resorcinol, salicylic acid, tazarotene, tetracycline, tretinoin
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