Acne: Causes, Types, and Treatment Options

Acne is a common skin condition that causes pimples, blackheads, and inflamed cysts. It can affect people of all ages and is often linked to hormonal changes.
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Skin Disorders | Dermatology | Acne Prevention Tips | Pimple Treatment | Acne Skincare Routine | Clear Skin Tips
Prepared by Nick Harper, reviewed by Dr. David James Simpson

Acne FAQ


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What does acne look like?

The typical appearance of acne is a mixture of the following: oily skin, blackheads, whiteheads, red spots and pus-filled pimples. Occasionally, larger, deeper bumps (known as nodules) or cysts (which resemble boils) may develop. Affected skin may feel hot, painful and be tender to touch.

Where does acne come from?

It can happen anywhere on the body. However, acne most often appears in areas where there is a high concentration of sebaceous glands, including: Acne may look like other skin conditions. Always talk with your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

What causes acne & what causes it?

Acne is most commonly linked to the changes in hormone levels during puberty, but can start at any age. Certain hormones cause the grease-producing glands next to hair follicles in the skin to produce larger amounts of oil (abnormal sebum).

Is acne a serious skin condition?

In the United States, acne is the most common skin condition, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). While acne doesn’t pose a serious risk to your overall health, it can still be painful, particularly if you have severe acne. Over time, acne might also cause scarring.

What is acne & why is it a problem?

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.

Which skin condition causes pimples?

In other words, acne is the skin condition that causes pimples. Acne is very common. In fact, research estimates that 9.4 percent of people worldwide have acne. In the United States, acne is the most common skin condition, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).

Is acne a common condition?

If you live with acne, know that it’s a common condition. Keep in mind, too, that acne is very treatable. A number of effective treatments exist, so you have options for reducing the number of pimples you get and minimizing your chances of scarring.

Acne References

If you want to know more about Acne, consider exploring links below:

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