VM
1
1
Mild severity
· Dermatology
Acne
Pimples · Hormonal & bacterial skin condition
Hair follicles clog with oil and dead cells; bacteria inflame the area. Modern treatment can clear most cases and prevent scarring.
At a glance
- Prevalence
- Affects 9 in 10 teens
- Typical age
- 12–25 years
- Outlook
- Treatable
- System
- Skin
Reviewed by a verified Dermatology doctor
What causes it
Causes
- Hormonal surges (puberty, periods)
- Excess sebum production
- P. acnes bacteria
- Picking, occlusive cosmetics
- High-glycemic diet, dairy in some
How it feels
Symptoms & effects
- Blackheads and whiteheads
- Red painful pustules
- Cysts deep under skin
- Post-inflammatory marks
- Scarring if severe
How it’s treated
Treatment & cure
- Topical retinoids (adapalene)
- Benzoyl peroxide gels
- Salicylic acid washes
- Oral isotretinoin for severe cases
- Hormonal therapy in PCOS-related acne
Staying ahead
Prevention
- Daily SPF 30+, non-comedogenic
- Wash face twice daily, no harder
- Limit dairy and sugary drinks if triggers
- Don't share pillowcases or towels
Do’s
- Apply sunscreen every morning
- Use lukewarm water
- See dermatologist if scarring begins
- Take prescribed meds consistently
Don’ts
- Pop or pick pimples
- Try strong DIY home remedies
- Stop treatment after 2 weeks (give 8)
- Use heavy makeup over active pimples
See a doctor immediately if
Symptoms are sudden or severe, getting worse despite home care, or interfering with sleep, work or daily life. Don’t self-diagnose from the internet — book a verified clinician below.
Top specialists
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Disclaimer ·
This article is educational and reviewed by clinicians, but it cannot replace an in-person assessment.
Medication doses, prevention advice and treatment choices vary by person. Always confirm with a doctor before acting on anything here.