Acne, Acne vulgaris, Adult acne

Medical terms

Acne vulgaris, comedones, comedones nodular acne

Common terms

Pimples, blemishes, spots, zits, acne, adult acne, blackheads, whiteheads

Overview

Acne is almost a universal condition affecting nearly every teenager at some stage.  It is caused by changes in the pilosebaceous unit, the skin structure consisting of a hair follicle and its associated sebaceous gland, via androgen stimulation. When it progresses from more than the occasional pimple (caused by a blockage of the skin’s pore) or extends into later life (adult acne) we consider it a medical condition.  There are many types of acne and so assessment by an Acne Dermatologist ensures the appropriate treatment is prescribed and tailored specifically to your type of acne.

Symptoms and signs

Acne is characterized by non-inflammatory follicular pustules or comedones and by inflammatory papules, pustules, and nodules in its more severe forms. Acne vulgaris affects the areas of skin with the densest population of sebaceous follicles such as the face, the upper part of the chest and the back. Acne can be inflammatory or non-inflammatory. Inflammatory or nodular lesions may be painful. Moderate to severe acne may result in scarring.

Treatment

The good news is that acne can be treated with clinically proven treatment. Treatments include specialized face washes, gels and creams (many of which require a prescription), systemic treatment (tablets) including antibiotics, hormonal treatment and Roaccutane® (which can only be prescribed by a Dermatologist). Lasers and light therapy are some of the newer treatments for acne, but these often prove to be an expensive way to gain temporary results. Assessment by a Dermatologist is the first step to clearer skin.