What happens within the skin
Acne develops through a combination of excess oil, blocked follicles under influence of hormones at puberty , thus subsequently will lead to inflammation. It can cause blackheads, whiteheads, inflamed spots or deep painful nodules. [1]
How treatment is selected
Treatment depends on the type, depth and extent of acne, whether scarring is developing, and its effect on daily life. Options include topical retinoids or benzoyl peroxide. Oral medicines may be added in selected cases, while isotretinoin is considered when appropriate, particularly for severe acne or if there is a risk of scarring. [2]
Antibiotics need a defined plan
Antibiotics are not an indefinite solution for every type of acne. A clinician decides whether they are needed and for how long, usually alongside appropriate topical treatment to limit bacterial resistance. Do not share medication or automatically restart an old prescription when spots return. [2]
Daily care and realistic expectations
Choose a gentle cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen that do not clog pores, and avoid squeezing spots. Improvement takes weeks and may require several months, so changing products every few days makes assessment difficult. Dark marks and scars may need separate attention after active inflammation is controlled. [1][2]
When a review matters
Seek an early assessment for acne, especially if associated with significant number of lesions or with scar formation. Tell the clinician if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, because some acne medicines are prohibited during pregnancy. [1][3]
Key point
The aim is to control new lesions and reduce the risk of scarring through gentle skin care and consistent follow-up. [1][2][3]
References
- 1. AcneNHS
- 2. Acne diagnosis and treatmentAmerican Academy of Dermatology
- 3. Acne treatment during pregnancyAmerican Academy of Dermatology
References are clickable. Accessed 2026-09-05.