What is Acne? Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
SkinChange.AI
Medical editorial team
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the world, affecting millions of people — from teenagers to adults. Despite how common it is, acne can have a significant impact on self-confidence and quality of life.
In this article, we explain exactly what acne is, what causes it, what it looks like, and what you can do about it.
What is acne?
Acne (acne vulgaris) is a chronic skin condition that occurs in the oil glands (sebaceous glands) and hair follicles. These glands produce sebum — a natural oil that protects and moisturises the skin. When the oil glands overproduce and dead skin cells clog the pores, an environment is created where bacteria thrive and cause inflammation.
Acne is not contagious and is not caused by poor hygiene, although cleanliness can help manage it.
What does acne look like?
Acne can appear in many forms:
- Blackheads and whiteheads: Plugged pores due to excess oil and dead skin cells. Blackheads are open and dark in colour; whiteheads are closed.
- Pimples (pustules and papules): Red, inflamed bumps that may contain pus.
- Nodules and cysts: Deeper, painful lumps under the skin. These are the most severe forms and carry the greatest risk of scarring.
Acne most commonly appears on the face, back, chest and shoulders — areas with many oil glands.
Why does acne happen?
Acne develops when several factors combine:
Increased oil production
Hormones — particularly androgens like testosterone — stimulate the oil glands to produce more oil. This is why acne typically starts during puberty, and why women often experience breakouts around menstruation, pregnancy or hormonal changes.
Clogged pores
Dead skin cells mix with excess sebum and block the hair follicles. This creates comedones — the characteristic blackheads and whiteheads that are the precursor to inflamed acne.
Bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes)
The bacterium Cutibacterium acnes lives naturally on the skin, but in clogged pores it thrives and triggers an immune response, causing the characteristic redness and inflammation.
Genetics and lifestyle
Genetic factors play a major role. If your parents had severe acne, you are more likely to develop it yourself. Stress, diet (particularly sugary and fatty foods) and certain medications can also worsen the condition.
Who gets acne?
Acne is incredibly common and affects most people at some point in their lives:
- Teenagers: Up to 85% of young people aged 12–25 experience acne due to hormonal changes during puberty.
- Adult women: 12–22% of women over 25 have acne, often hormone-related.
- Adult men: Acne in adult men is less frequent than in women, but does occur.
No one is immune. Acne can affect all skin types, ages and backgrounds.
What can you do about acne?
While there is no single universal cure, acne is treatable in most cases. The key is consistent treatment over time:
💊 Over-the-counter products (mild acne)
Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and niacinamide can reduce pimples and oil production.
🩺 Prescription treatment (moderate/severe acne)
Topical retinoids, antibiotics and in severe cases isotretinoin (Roaccutane) are effective options that require a prescription.
🥗 Lifestyle
Reduce sugar and dairy intake, manage stress, get enough sleep and wash your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser.
🚫 Avoid
Don't pick or squeeze — it worsens inflammation and increases the risk of scarring.
Medical classification: Acne is classified as ED80 in the WHO's International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). It is characterised by comedones, papules and pustules, often related to hormonal changes.
Frequently asked questions
Is acne dangerous?
Acne is not dangerous in a medical sense, but severe untreated acne can leave permanent scars. Early treatment is important.
Can acne go away on its own?
Mild acne can improve over time, but moderate to severe acne typically requires treatment. Waiting it out can result in scarring.
When should I contact a dermatologist?
Contact a dermatologist if over-the-counter products are not helping after 2-3 months, if you develop scars, deep cysts, or if acne is affecting your well-being.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a dermatologist for personal guidance.