Acne
Blocked and inflamed hair follicles producing spots, most commonly on the face, chest and back.
Last revised
Key takeaways
- Time to judge a treatment: at least 6-8 weeks
- First-line options: topical retinoids and benzoyl peroxide, often combined
- Most useful single change: Give any treatment at least six to eight weeks before judging it.
- Commonest mistake: Scrubbing, picking or squeezing, which worsens scarring.
- See a doctor if any of the signs under "When to get help" below apply to you.
Why it matters
It is not caused by poor hygiene or chocolate, and effective treatment exists for every severity including the scarring kind.
The numbers, in one place
| Measure | Figure |
|---|---|
| Time to judge a treatment | at least 6-8 weeks |
| First-line options | topical retinoids and benzoyl peroxide, often combined |
| Antibiotics | not used alone, to limit resistance |
| Isotretinoin | specialist-prescribed, with strict pregnancy prevention |
What helps
- Give any treatment at least six to eight weeks before judging it
- Wash gently twice a day with a mild cleanser
- Use non-comedogenic moisturisers and make-up
- See a GP early if acne is scarring or causing distress
What to avoid
- Scrubbing, picking or squeezing, which worsens scarring
- Topical antibiotics used alone long term
- Assuming it is caused by diet or hygiene
Where to go next
- Your Questions About Acne, Answered
- Acne at a Glance
- What the Guidance Really Says About Psoriasis
- What the Guidance Really Says About Skin Cancer Signs
When to get help
See a GP promptly for acne that is scarring, nodular or cystic, or causing significant distress, rather than waiting. Isotretinoin must never be taken in pregnancy and requires strict contraception; report low mood or thoughts of self-harm on any acne treatment immediately.
Where this comes from
How this page was put together
Every figure, recommendation and warning above is taken from the guidance named in Where this comes from. Nothing on this page is inferred, summarised or generalised beyond what those bodies publish: where they give a number, it is their number, and where they are silent, so are we. Pages are rebuilt whenever the underlying record changes. Sign-off by a named clinician, where it has happened, is shown at the top of the page along with the date.
Medical disclaimer
This article is general information, not medical advice. It cannot account for your own history, medication or circumstances. Always speak to a GP, pharmacist or another qualified health professional before making changes that affect your treatment, and never delay seeking medical advice because of something you have read here. In an emergency, call 999.