At a glance

Mild Acne is usually defined as having occasional minor breakouts. It consists of mostly open and closed comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) with few papules (small red bumps) and pustules ("squeezable" spots that contain fluid or puss).

Moderate Acne is more widespread and consists of blackheads and whiteheads with many papules and pustules. There are also usually deeper lesions (nodules) in moderate acne which can be painful to touch.

Severe Acne consists of lots of large painful papules, pustules, nodules or cysts with some scarring.

Acne is a very common skin condition identified by the presence of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) and pus-filled spots (pustules). It usually starts during puberty. Acne ranges from a few spots on the face, neck, back and chest, which most teenagers will have at some time, to a more severe problem that may cause scarring and reduce self-confidence. For most, it tends to go away by the early to mid-twenties, but it can go on for longer. Acne can also develop for the first time in people in their late twenties and beyond.

Puberty and hormonal changes are the main causes of acne. However, stress, genetics and what skincare products you are using can all play a part.

This will appear as a large number of papules and pustules on your face and possibly your chest and/or back. The nodules and cysts will be painful and you will be at risk of scarring, therefore it is essential that you seek medical advice.

Severe acne can be treated using a variety of different methods depending on your individual skins needs. The doctor may recommend Roaccutane also known as Isotretinoin (a prescription medication derived from Vitamin A) or a combination of treatments to help treat the acne.

A large proportion of patients (about 9 out of 10) see a significant improvement in their acne with a single course of isotretinoin, although during the first few weeks of treatment the acne may worsen before it starts to improve.

A small number of patients continue to have milder (although improved) acne following isotretinoin that can be controlled with topical treatments or oral antibiotics.

A course commonly lasts between 16 and 24 weeks.

Acne scars can be stubborn however we have a variety of treatments to improve their appearance. Treatments include Radio-frequency, micro-needling, skincare, chemical peels and more. It is important to treat your acne before we can start treating the scarring. The best treatment for your skin will depend on the type of acne scarring you have.

• Try not to pick or squeeze your spots as this usually aggravates them and may cause scarring and infection.
• If your self-confidence has been affected by acne or if you are feeling distressed, it is important to reach out to others for support. This includes friends, family members and support groups. You may also be able to access a counsellor through school, university or work.
• Let your doctor know if your acne is making you feel depressed or anxious. They will be able to speak with you about how you are feeling and help you to form a treatment plan, which may involve input from other specialists, such as psychologists or psychiatrists, if necessary.
• However your acne affects you, it is important to take action to control it as soon as it appears. This helps to avoid permanent scarring and reduces embarrassment. If your acne is mild, it is worth trying over-the-counter preparations in the first instance. Ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can be helpful. Your pharmacist will advise you.
• Expect to use your treatments for at least two months before you see much improvement. Make sure that you understand how to use them correctly so you get the maximum benefit.
• Some topical treatments may dry or irritate the skin when you start using them. If your face goes red and is irritated by a lotion or cream, stop treatment for a few days and try using the treatment less often and then building up gradually.
• Make-up may help your confidence. Choose products that are labelled as being ‘non-comedogenic’ (should not cause blackheads or whiteheads) or non-acnegenic (should not cause acne).