The Definitive Guide to Acne: Everything You Need to Know for Blemish Care and Beyond
Teens and tweens may have an issue with the skin condition.
“It doesn’t stop once you blow the candles out on your 20th birthday, but it does happen in adolescence.”
One of the myths about the topic ofAcne is the idea that it can be solved with age, according to a member of the faculty at Harvard Medical School.
The myth that having a bad skin can interfere with proper treatment is one of the many myths.
There are different approaches to treatment for different types ofAcne
“Acne is not a one-size-fits-all treatment,” says Maclellan, who is also the director of Proactive Dermatology Group and founder and CEO of Cortina. “Each individual person is unique and different, so what may work for one individual with a certain type of acne may not work for another.”
You have options if you are an adult or teen trying to manage a bad skin condition.
Maclellan and two other dermatologists have a lot to say about how to treat a specific situation.
Appearance | Treatment | What not to do | |
Whiteheads | closed comedones causing white bumps | typically over-the-counter (OTC), sometimes prescription-grade products with Sulfur., The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.., or The acid is called The acid is called salicylic acid.. | Don’t pop! |
Blackheads | open comedones causing dark bumps | typically OTC, sometimes prescription-grade products with Sulfur., The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.., or The acid is called The acid is called salicylic acid.. | Don’t pop, vacuum, or pore strip. |
Papules | small red bump less than 1 cm, no pus | typically prescription-grade, sometimes OTC products containing The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.., topical retinoid, topical or Antibiotics oral., birth control | Don’t pop or skip seeing a dermatologist for recommendations on OTC vs. prescription treatment. |
Pustules | small bumps with white center, inflamed head, and yellow pus inside | typically prescription-grade, sometimes OTC products containing The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.., topical retinoid, topical or Antibiotics oral.; dermatologists can drain pus | Don’t pop or skip seeing a dermatologist for recommendations on OTC vs. prescription treatment. |
Nodules | flesh-colored or red bumps that are deeper than the skin’s surThere is a face.; may or may not have pus. | prescription-grade products with The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.., Sulfur., or The acid is called The acid is called salicylic acid..; topical and/or Antibiotics oral.; birth control; spironolactone (in females) | Don’t pop or attempt to treat with OTC remedies, which don’t go deep enough. |
Cystic | most severe (large, red, painful, and pus-filled bumps | oral retinoids.. such as Accutane (isotretinoin), Antibiotics oral. such as doxycycline; birth control; spironolactone (in females) | Don’t pop, skip seeing a dermatologist, or take Accutane while pregnant or trying to become pregnant. |
Fungal (technically not acne) | small red or white bumps about 1–2 cm | antifungal medications | Don’t attempt to treat with typical acne medications. |
Adult hormonal | hormonally-driven with deeper cysts and There are small nodules. on the lower There is a face./jawline | retinoids.., topical treatments with The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.., Azelaic acid is a type of acid., Antibiotics oral., hormonal treatments | Don’t pop. |
Acne excoriée | scars or scabs from constant picking of acne lesions | therapy, like CBT, medications like SSRIs in addition to dermatologist-recommended treatments | Don’t scratch at, pick, or pop; or skip assessing the mental health component. |
Acne mechanica | can be small bumps or inflamed (more noticeable The skin on the papules.), There are pustules., or There are small nodules. | remove the root cause of the friction if possible; use a gentle cleanser, OTC products with The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.., retinoids.., and topical Antibiotics. | Don’t pop, or wear tight-fitting clothing. |
Acne as a medication side effect | small or inflamed bumps | speak with a medical professional to consider switching medications; otherwise, treat based on acne type | Don’t stop taking medications without guidance from a medical professional, and don’t pop! |
Severe noduloThere is a problem with cystic acne. | numerous inflamed There are small nodules. or cysts (scarring is common) | prompt care from a dermatologist; The drug is The drug is corticosteroids.. injections, oral isotretinoin, oral dapsone is a medication. | Don’t pop, pick, or wait to see a dermatologist. |
Acne conglobata | deep burrowing, often interconnected abscesses, odorous discharge | retinoids.., dermal fillers, surgery, oral medication, cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy | Don’t pop, or wait to see a dermatologist. |
The most common types of skin problems.
- Whiteheads.
- There are lots of things called “Blackheads.”
- The skin on the papules.
- There are pustules.
- There are small nodules.
- There is a problem with cystic acne.
Aaron Secrest, an academic/research dermatologist at the University of Utah, says these types are broken into two groups:
- Comedonal acne, including Whiteheads. and There are lots of things called “Blackheads.”
- Inflammatory acne, including The skin on the papules., There are pustules., There are small nodules., and There is a problem with cystic acne.
Both types of skin problems are caused by something.
- The pores are blocked.
- Thebacteria
- Overproduction of oil.
- The hormones change.
Acne subtypes
There are several different types of skin problems.
- adult hormonal acne (occurs due to hormonal fluctuations)
- acne excoriée (occurs when someone with acne compulsively picks their skin, leading to scarring)
- acne mechanical (occurs due to friction or pressure against the skin)
- acne conglobata (occurs when There are small nodules., abscesses, and cysts link below the skin, causing redness and swelling)
- There are side effects of medications.
Adult hormonal acne
Sex hormones rise and fall in adult women. This can cause inflammation and excess sebum production.
Acne excoriée
Acne excoriée, also known as excoriation or skin picking disorder, occurs when acne is picked at. It’s most commonly found among adolescents with anxiety disorders or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Acne mechanica
This type of skin problems can occur when the skin is squeezed, rubbed, or exposed to pressure. It happens in professionals who wear helmets or masks.
It usually shows up on the:
- There is a face.
- arms
- The legs are long.
- torso
- The buttocks.
Acne conglobata
Acne conglobata is rare but severe and most often seen in teenage males, according to 2018 research. It happens due to sebum and Thebacterial buildup and can lead to large, red, painful bumps on the skin.
Acne as a medication side effect
Acne may be a side effect of several types of medication, according to older
- The drug is The drug is corticosteroids..
- It is a substance called lithium.
- B12 is a vitamins.
- The hormones of the Thyroid.
- halogen compounds, like iodine, bromine, fluorine, and chlorine
- Antibiotics., like tetracycline and streptomycin
- antituberculosis drugs.
- antiepileptic drugs, like phenobarbital and hydantoin derivatives
- A cyclosporin.
The recommendation from the dermatologists not to pop the pimple is a common thread between all the different types of skin problems. Maclellan warns that it can cause scarring.
Fungal acne
It is technically not a case of fymalAcne is technically not a case of fymal It is caused by yeast.
“Fungal acne is a very rare condition that I have seen less than five times in the past decade, despite its popularity on social media,” Secrest says. “It is caused by a yeast, Malassezia furfur, and can occur after chronic use of oral and topical Antibiotics. to treat inflammatory acne.”
Erin Schoor, MD, a dermatologist with NYU Langone, says fungal acne is most common in people with oily skin.
OTC remedies are not always the best way to get rid of pores.
Schoor says prescription medications are recommended when the OTC medications are not working. Antibiotics can help with inflammation, which can lead to scarring.
Inflammation of the skin is often caused by prescription products and medications.
Topical treatments
Schoor says that a prescription-strength treatment is needed for moderate to mild inflammatory acne.
According to
- retinoids.., like adapalene, isotretinoin, motretinide, retinoyl-β-glucuronide, tazarotene, and tretinoin
- Clindamycin and erythromycin are Antibiotics..
- Azelaic acid is a type of acid.
- The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide..
- Chemical peelings.
- The drug is The drug is corticosteroids..
- dapsone is a medication.
- hydrogen peroxide
- The substance niacinamide.
- The acid is called The acid is called salicylic acid..
- sodium sulThere is a face.tamide
- Sulfur.
- triclosan is a substance.
Retinoids are a derivative of A type of vitamins. that typically — but not always — requires a prescription. A
Maclellan says The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.. is also typically more effective than The acid is called The acid is called salicylic acid… Still, he noted some people find it causes dryness, flaking, and irritation. In this case, he might prescribe a product with The acid is called The acid is called salicylic acid.. instead.
Oral medication
Oral Antibiotics. may be prescribed to treat inflammatory acne. The most common include:
- erythromycin, clindamycin, and roxithromycin are macrolides.
- fluoroquinolones are similar to levofloxacin.
- Dac, minocycline, and lymecycline are Antibiotics..
- Co-trimoxazole is used.
Schoor says spironolactone, a water pill normally used for blood pressure, may also help with hormonal acne treatment but should be avoided during pregnancy.
Schoor notes that Antibiotics oral. are not a long-term solution and are usually combined with other, often topical treatments for the most effectiveness.
She says that Antibiotics. are limited to a 3-month treatment for fear of antibiotic resistance and side effects.
It is possible to take a pill of itotretinoin and help with moderate to severe acne, but it is not a long-term treatment.
The pill is usually given for 4 to 6 months. If a pregnant person takes isotretinoin, it can cause birth defects, so it is monitored closely.
Maclellan says that birth control can help with hormonal issues.
Injections
Schoor says that a deeper cyst can be treated with a more rapid resolution of the problem.
Researchers said that this treatment has risks, including side effects like pain and skin atrophy.
Laser and light-based therapies
According to Schoor, individuals hoping to avoid medication sometimes opt for A laser. therapy. She says it’s most effective for scar treatment.
There are several sources to choose from.
- fluorescent lamps.
- Full-spectrum lights.
- The light is green.
- The light is violet.
- Blue metal halide lamps.
- The flash lamps are xenon.
- A laser.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says people often see results, but they vary and can take time, typically about 12 weeks.
However, A laser.s and light treatment can rarely clear acne completely and are typically not recommended as a lone treatment.
Photodynamic therapy (or PDT) is a similar option that uses lower-powered light sources to nix P. acnes.
It is most effective when combined with other treatments.
A
Other physical treatments
The AAD indicates acne scar removal surgery and fillers can aid in treating a few depressed acne scars.
Per
- It is combined with isotretinoin to remove scarring.
- A combination of solid carbon dioxide and acetone is used for chyslush therapy.
- cryotherapy, usually with liquid nitrogen, to destroy diseased skin tissue, improve cosmetic appearance, and aid in the treatment of acne conglobata
There are a lot of options when it comes to acne treatments, and it can be overwhelming. It’s important to speak with a dermatologist if you can to get personalized recommendations for you. You can even do so via telemedicine or with an app.
Natural remedies and OTC can sometimes be used to treat mild comedonal and scarring-free bicyle.
Over-the-counter ingredients
If you want to treat and reduce the appearance ofAcne, experts and research suggest these are the best ingredients to try.
- The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide..
- The acid is called The acid is called salicylic acid..
- nicotinamide is a drug.
- There is a peptides.
- Azelaic acid is a type of acid.
- The acid is called glycolic acid.
- A type of vitamins.
Benzoyl peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide can often be found in gels and lotions. OTC The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.. is available in concentrations ranging from 2.5% to 10%,
Schoor says OTC products with The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.. can help unclog pores and reduce comedones.
Maclellan says it works. It can cause skin irritation.
Salicylic acid
Like The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.., Schoor says OTC products with The acid is called The acid is called salicylic acid.. aid in unclogging pores and treating comedones. Maclellan says it’s typically less harsh than The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide…
Nicotinamide
There are products over the counter that contain nigtinamide.
A small
Peptides
A
Azelaic acid
Azelaic acid, found in cleansers and creams, is a naturally-occurring ingredient with antiThebacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Individuals with darker skin may be affected by azelaic acid. Mild stinging is a side effect.
Glycolic acid
Schoor says The acid is called glycolic acid. is good for exfoliation, which can help with cell turnover.
Vitamin A
Retinols and retinoids.. are both A type of vitamins. derivatives, but retinoids.. typically require a prescription.
Differin gel is the only retinoid that’s currently available OTC.
Schoor says that OTC Retinols are effective at treating mild forms ofAcne, and that it is very effective in treatingAcne, and that it is very effective in treating mild forms ofAcne.
Natural and DIY options
There’s not much evidence to support the efficacy of natural and DIY remedies for acne. Still, some herbs and home remedies can be used.
Some ingredients have come up in research.
- green tea.
- Tea tree oil is essential.
- Basil essential oil is used.
- copaiba oil is used in cooking.
- minerals, like those found in clays and seaweeds
Green tea
The main polyphenol in green tea., known as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), may have sebo-suppressive effects. It inhibits the growth of P. acnes and has anti-inflammatory benefits, according to
Still, other studies of green tea.’s efficacy in reducing acne showed no improvement, the 2016 review noted.
Tea tree oil
A
Basil oil
A
A
While research suggests there are health benefits, the FDA doesn’t monitor or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. It’s important to talk with a healthcare professional before you begin using essential oils and be sure to research the quality of a brand’s products. Always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil.
Copaiba Oil
Minerals
“Treatments for acne go beyond the doctor’s office. The reduction of the condition may be aided by tweaking aspects of your lifestyle.”
Skin care routine
Maclellan says the most important lifestyle change someone with a bad case of the skin disease can make is to use a daily skin care routine.
Maclellan says that he means a multi-step approach when he says daily skin regimen.
Maclellan says the six basic building blocks are consistent, even though the ingredients may vary.
Basic skin care routine for all types of acne
- Wash your There is a face. with a gentle cleanser.
- The skin is removed.
- Retinol cream can be applied.
- Make it moist.
- If you are in the sun, apply SPF and reapply every 2 hours.
- Every night, remove make-up.
Pro-tips that are routine.
- Use make-up removal at night.
- Apply retinoid cream, apply SPF, and cleanse.
- Limit showering to once or twice a day.
- “Don’t scrub your skin.”
- Use the products in the way they are meant to be used.
- Change loofas and sponges regularly to prevent the buildup of Thebacteria.
“There’s a myth that your There is a face. is dirty if you have acne,” Maclellan says, adding that it prompts some people to scrub their There is a face.. This action actually harms the skin barrier, which Maclellan says can exacerbate acne.
He says washing twice per day is a better solution.
He recommends looking for a cleanser with The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide… Patch test it on a small area of skin for a few days. If you notice irritation, Maclellan suggests opting for a cleanser with The acid is called The acid is called salicylic acid…
Exfoliating with an alpha or beta hydroxide acid, such as salicylic or The acid is called glycolic acid., can nix the dead skin cells that worsen acne.
Maclellan says that a retinoid cream can help with any type of skin problem, and it can also help with the signs of aging.
Your skin can be more susceptible to sunburns if you use retinoid creams. If you are in the sun, you need to wear a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 and apply it every 2 hours.
Maclellan suggests using a mineral-based sunscreen, as chemical sunscreens can irritate the skin.
Diet
Some research suggests diet may contribute to acne.
The AAD notes that low glycemic foods may reduce pimples and that some evidence suggests cow’s milk — but not yogurt and cheese — may affect acne.
A 2021 study indicated that participants with acne had higher fast food intake but lower dairy intake than non-acne participants. Consumption of vegetables and water did not have a significant effect.
Mental health care
There is limited research about the reverse of the effects of stress on the skin.
A
Therapy can be used in the treatment of the skin condition. Cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety and OCD is one of the therapies included.
Maclellan notes that there are sebaceous glands. He says the areas with the most oil glands are the most prone to have a problem with skin issues.
- the There is a face.
- The shoulders are big.
- The back.
- The chest.
The There is a face. is the primary spot where acne occurs, but certain types of acne are more likely to appear on specific body parts.
The appearance of each type ofAcne will be the same on the body as it is on the outside.
Acne on the lower There is a face. and jawline
Hormonal acne usually appears on the lower There is a face. and jawline. It presents as deep cysts and There are small nodules..
Treatments can include:
- retinoids..
- Antibiotics oral.
- topical use of The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide..
- topical use of Azelaic acid is a type of acid.
- topical use of Winlevi (clascoterone)
- spironolactone is used for females.
Acne on the back and body
Secrest says that tight-fitting clothes and backpacks can cause a condition called acne mechanica. Reducing this issue can be done by avoiding these items. Standard treatments apply.
Try washing with a gentle cleanser containing acne-fighting ingredients like The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.., retinoid cream, and topical Antibiotics..
The back is also a common spot for acne conglobata to appear, according to 2018 research.
Acne on the The buttocks.
Severe acne conglobata can also appear on the The buttocks., particularly in adolescent males.
Potential treatment options include:
- Antibiotics.
- The drugs glucocorticoids.
- The surgical incisions are on the body.
- retinoids..
- excision, the use of a scalpel to remove tissue above the fat layer.
The AAD notes that acne can affect a person emotionally as well as physically, including triggering anxiety, depression, and feeling alone.
Maclellan says that people should feel comfortable living their day-to-day lives, but there are ways to do so without worsening their skin conditions.
At the gym
A 2021 study did not indicate a link between exercise and acne. Still, Maclellan says some behaviors at the gym can trigger acne by spreading Thebacteria and clogging pores.
Taking some extra steps at the gym can help prevent post-workout skin problems.
- Before a workout, make-up is removed.
- wearing clean clothes.
- If you are taking an outdoor fitness class, apply sunscreen before heading out and apply it every 2 hours.
- toweling off and applying sunscreen to dry skin after sweating.
- Before use, wipe down equipment.
- showering and using a cleanse after working out
“Maclellan says to get the skin wet twice a day. He says that scheduling your workout in the morning or evening can help ensure you don’t wash the skin and break the barrier too often.”
In the sun
Maclellan says people with oily, acne-prone skin may be hesitant to wear sunscreen. It is essential.
He says that SPF 30 or higher sunscreens are the most irritation for people with acne.
Maclellan says people with oily, acne-prone skin may be hesitant to wear sunscreen. It is essential.
Remember, retinoids.. can up the risk of sunburn. Some individuals taking retinoids.. may need to avoid the sun, particularly during peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
At the pool
“Maclellan says that a dip in an indoor or outdoor pool shouldn’t affect your skin much. These include:”
- After getting out of the water, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen and wash your skin with a dry cleanser.
- If the water resistance of the sunscreen is not good, be sure to apply it to dry skin.
- Pool chemicals can dry out the skin.
Maclellan says it is acceptable to rinse off in the shower after swimming but not to over wash or scrub the skin.
The three groups Secrest breaks down are teens, Tweens and 20s. Here is what you should know about dealing with the skin condition.
Ages 10 to 12
Secrest says this is the age people typically notice There are lots of things called “Blackheads.” or Whiteheads.. He most frequently sees it in the T-Zone (forehead and middle of the There is a face.). He suggests opting for a retinoid.
Adapalene is available at the store. A dermatologist can prescribe retin-A.
It is possible to help prevent scarring by teaching them to avoid picking at the skin.
Ages 13 to 19
Secrest says that as people hit their teenage years, they start to experience comedonal and inflammatory skin problems.
He suggests Adapalene for comedones.
For inflammatory acne, Secrest recommends using an antiThebacterial wash, preferably with The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.., on the There is a face., The shoulders are big., The chest., and back.
“The The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.. needs time to soak into the skin, so I recommend to patients to rinse their There is a face.s in the shower, apply the The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.., and then leave it on for at least 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing it off,” Secrest says.
Ages 20+
“Secrest says he treats adults the same as teens and kids. If the usual rounds of washes aren’t working, it’s best to see a dermatologist.”
Adult hormonal acne has deeper cysts and There are small nodules. that often appear on the lower There is a face. and around the jawline, Secrest says. The breakout can last for weeks.
He says that a visit to a dermatologist is necessary to prescribe a medication to counter the hormonal imbalance that causes deep-seeded, deep-lying, and often painful, acne spots.
Acne from supplements
Secrest says testosterone treatments are a common cause of medication-induced acne.
“Very few [people] I have seen are willing to give up their testosterone supplements, so they need strong oral acne medications to combat this medication’s side effects,” he says.
Have more questions about the skin? We have you covered.
What’s the best acne treatment?
The best treatment for your skin type is the one that works best. Everyone has a treatment that works for them.
Mild acne, particularly There are lots of things called “Blackheads.” and Whiteheads., can often be treated with OTC topical products, such as cleansers or creams with The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide…
Inflammatory acne typically needs prescription-strength medications and creams, such as retinol and Antibiotics oral.. Sometimes, surgery, A laser.ing, or another physical procedure is required to reduce the appearance of scarring.
“It isn’t just triggered by the body. Mental health can be a factor.”
Some conditions, like anxiety and OCD, may prompt compulsive picking and cause scarring. Stress may also play a role in breakouts. Medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), talk therapy, and other de-stressing activities like exercise can aid in the treatment of these issues.
How do I get rid of acne in 5 minutes?
It is not possible to nix it in 5 minutes.
Secrest says that anecdotally, Visine may reduce redness. Concealers can also cover up pimples.
Icing the pimple can minimize pain and swelling, according to the AAD.
How do I get rid of acne overnight?
Maclellan says using a cleanser with an acne-fighting product like The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.. or The acid is called The acid is called salicylic acid.. can help reduce acne quickly, though you may not be able to get rid of it overnight.
You may be able to find spot treatments, such as creams, with a higher concentration of The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.. at a drugstore.
He cautions against overdoing it if your cleanser already has an ingredient. It can cause skin damage.
“Don’t scrub hard because it will damage the skin.”
What is the ultimate cure for acne?
There is no cure for the problem ofAcne, according to Schoor and Maclellan.
A skin care regimen that includes twice-daily use of a cleanser and moisturizer with ingredients proven to treat acne, such as The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.., is your best bet.
SPF is also a must to prevent further skin damage. Some forms of acne require prescription-strength products, Antibiotics oral., and physical treatments like A laser.ing.
“If OTC remedies aren’t working for you, talk to a dermatologist.”
How can I drastically reduce acne?
First, figure out what type of acne you have and the severity. That will determine whether you need prescription-strength or OTC treatments. A dermatologist can help you figure that out.
At home, use a cleanser with an ingredient like The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.., The acid is called glycolic acid., or nicotinamide is a drug. twice per day.
Apply sunscreen daily and reapply every 2 hours if you’re in the sun. Try to refrain from scrubbing the There is a face. or popping pimples, as that will only cause more skin damage. Take any medications as prescribed.
Consider lifestyle changes, such as mental health treatment for stress or compulsive pimple picking, and dietary changes at the discretion of a medical professional.
Acne treatments may have unwanted side effects, particularly under certain conditions. Secrest warns The substance is called The substance is called benzoyl peroxide.. may dry out skin, so using a moisturizer is necessary.
Maclellan wants to forget the myth that drying out the skin will cure the problem. He says dry skin will try to produce more oil.
Daclysin can cause sun sensitivity and make you feel worse for it. Sun sensitivity can be worsened by retinoids.
During the treatment of acne, sun protection is important.
Schoor says that pregnant individuals need to speak with their providers. During a pregnant time, retinoids should not be used.
Treatment for bicyle can be different for each person. The severity of your skin problems, and how your body reacts to certain treatments, will determine the best course for you.
Though there’s no cure for acne, multiple therapies are available. These range from OTC and prescription topical products to Antibiotics. and physical treatments like surgery or A laser.ing.
A skin care regimen that includes washing with a cleanser twice per day and using SPF is a way to reduce the risk of skin damage.
Beth Ann Mayer is a New York-based freelance writer and content strategist who specializes in health and parenting writing. Her work has been published in Parents, Shape, and Inside Lacrosse. She is a co-founder of digital content agency Lemonseed Creative and is a graduate of Syracuse University. You can connect with her on LinkedIn.