What it is
Hormone changes, especially during puberty, periods and pregnancy, make the skin produce more oil. Family history plays a part, and some medicines and cosmetics can make it worse.
Mild acne is often treated with creams or gels. Moderate or severe acne may need tablets prescribed by a doctor or dermatologist, and these usually take several weeks to work.
Common signs
- Blackheads and whiteheads
- Red, inflamed spots and pus-filled spots
- Deeper painful lumps (nodules and cysts)
- Marks or scars left after spots heal
How it is usually diagnosed
- Recognised by looking at the skin; tests are rarely needed
- Sometimes hormone blood tests, for example if periods are irregular
- Blood tests before and during some prescription tablets
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- A list of treatments tried, with dates and how well they worked
- Dermatology letters and prescriptions
- Blood test results taken while on treatment
- Dated photos of your skin, to judge progress
Questions to ask your doctor
- How long should I try this treatment before deciding if it works?
- Which side effects should I watch for?
- Are blood tests needed with this medicine?
- What can be done about scarring?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Swelling of the face, lips or throat or difficulty breathing after starting a new medicine
- Thoughts of harming yourself; speak to someone the same day
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.