Skin Health

Acne

Acne is a common skin condition that causes bumps, pimples and sometimes scarring. Learn what causes acne, its symptoms and how you can manage or treat it.

Acne is a common inflammatory skin condition that mainly affects hair follicles and their nearby oil glands. It most often appears on the face, chest, back and shoulders. The types of acne lesions you might see include whiteheads, blackheads, red pimples, deeper nodules and cysts.

Common Symptoms

  • Small bumps, such as whiteheads or blackheads
  • Red, inflamed pimples
  • Deep, painful nodules or cysts
  • Oily skin and enlarged pores
  • Scarring or dark marks after healing

Causes and How Acne Develops

Acne usually results from a mix of factors including increased oil production, dead skin cells clogging the follicles, growth of certain skin bacteria and inflammation. Hormonal changes, especially increased androgens, can trigger more oil and lead to flare-ups.

Risk Factors

  • Adolescents are most commonly affected, but acne can also continue or start in adulthood
  • Family history of acne
  • Hormonal changes, such as those during puberty, menstrual cycles or pregnancy
  • Certain medications like corticosteroids or lithium
  • Use of oil-based cosmetics or products that block pores
  • Friction from helmets or straps
  • Lifestyle factors, including stress and possibly diet

Diagnosis

Our team at TidalHealth usually diagnoses acne by looking at your skin and talking with you about your history, symptoms and medications. Lab tests are rarely needed unless there is a concern for an underlying condition or if certain advanced treatments are being considered.

When to Seek Care

If your acne is painful, widespread, causing scars or dark marks, affecting how you feel or not getting better with over-the-counter treatments, please reach out to us. Our specialists can discuss a range of options to help reduce breakouts and prevent scarring.

What causes acne?

Acne forms when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to bacterial overgrowth and inflammation. Genetics and hormonal changes often play a major role.

How is acne treated?

Treatment depends on how severe the acne is. Mild acne often improves with topical therapies like benzoyl peroxide, topical retinoids or topical antibiotics combined with benzoyl peroxide. More moderate or severe cases may need oral medications, such as antibiotics, hormonal therapy for people who menstruate or isotretinoin. Our specialists may also suggest procedures like chemical peels, light or laser treatments, extractions or steroid injections for certain cases.

How long before I see improvement?

It often takes six to 12 weeks to see improvement with topical treatments. Oral antibiotics usually help within a few weeks but are often combined with topical treatments and used short term. Most treatments work gradually and results may continue to improve even after the treatment ends.

Can diet affect acne?

Some studies link diets high in refined carbohydrates or dairy with more acne for some people. Not everyone is affected the same way. A healthy, balanced diet and being aware of triggers can help.

Are over-the-counter treatments effective?

Many people benefit from over-the-counter products or sometimes using consistent, non-comedogenic products can help. Reach out to your healthcare practitioner for guidance.

Will acne go away on its own?

For many, acne improves after adolescence, but it can continue or start in adulthood. Starting treatment early and using the right approach can help lower the risk of scarring.

Can acne cause permanent scarring?

Yes, deeper types of acne like nodules or cysts are more likely to lead to scars. Seeing a specialist promptly and avoiding picking or squeezing can reduce this risk.

Is acne contagious?

No, acne cannot spread from person to person.

Are antibiotics safe for acne?

Topical and oral antibiotics are often used, but oral antibiotics are given for a short time and are paired with topical treatments to lower the chance of resistance. Talk with your provider at TidalHealth about the benefits and possible side effects of antibiotics for acne.

When should I see a dermatologist?

Reach out to a dermatologist if acne is severe, causing scars, impacting your mood or not improving with initial treatments. TidalHealth offers advanced therapies tailored to your needs.

What should I do about acne during pregnancy?

Some acne medications, like isotretinoin and certain topical retinoids, are not safe during pregnancy. Always check with your practitioner before starting or continuing acne treatments if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. The TidalHealth team will help you find safe choices.