In acne, the sebaceous glands become blocked and inflamed, leading to pimples on the face, back, and chest. Acne most commonly affects teenagers but can occur at any age. Teenage acne is thought to be due to changes in sex-hormone levels that occur around puberty.
In adults, acne mainly affects women and tends to occur just before menstrual periods or during pregnancy. Certain medications may also cause acne. Various types of pimples may develop, including blackheads, whiteheads, papules (small red lumps), and pustules (small, pus-filled lumps).
In severe cases, there may be nodules (large, hard lumps) and cysts (large, pus-filled lumps that look like boils). These may scar when they rupture
Mild acne can often be treated with lotions containing benzoyl peroxide.
For more severe cases, prescribed medications may be used, including antibiotics, azelaic acid, and retinoids. In women, hormone medication therapy or the combined contraceptive pill may also be effective.
It may take several months before there is any visible improvement
