What is acne?
Key points
- Acne is a skin condition that occurs when the sebaceous (oil-secreting) glands in the skin and along hair shafts become clogged and inflamed, and infected by bacteria.
- Blackheads and whiteheads form in the clogged pores.
- If acne is severe, large pimples – called cysts, nodules or cystic lesions – form firm swellings deep under the skin.
- Rarely, babies are born with acne and some people get acne for the first time after they've reached adulthood.
Acne is a skin condition that occurs when the sebaceous (oil-secreting) glands in the skin and along hair shafts become clogged and inflamed, and infected by bacteria.
Blackheads and whiteheads form in the clogged pores. Blackheads are small, usually flat spots with black centres. Whiteheads are similar, but because thay are closed, they don't have dark centres. Both blackheads and whiteheads may develop into swollen, tender papules (pimples) and pustules.
If acne is severe, large pimples – called cysts, nodules or cystic lesions – form firm swellings deep under the skin. They become inflamed and may develop into painful lumps; leading to scarring.
Acne is not limited to teenagers. Rarely, babies are born with acne and some people get acne for the first time after they've reached adulthood. Most people outgrow acne; but in women it may last until the menopause. 5% of women of 40 years of age have acne; but only 1% of men in that age group.
Acne can develop on your face, neck, chest, shoulders or back. The severity may differ from person to person and may fluctuate over time. Acne often has an adverse emotional effect on sufferers.
There is no cure for acne, but effective treatment is available. Severe acne requires medical treatment.
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.
Explore health topics
More in this topic
Skin, Hair & Beauty →
GuideMyths about acne
Myth: Fatty foods and chocolates affect acne Fact: Although it is always important for general health to follow a balanced diet, there is no proof that eating fatty foods and chocolates will cause or worsen acne. In…
26 April 2005
GuideSmoking and acne
Smoking does have damaging effects on the skin over a number of years. Chemicals absorbed from tobacco smoke can damage connective tissue that lies underneath the skin, which results in wrinkling. People who have smoked…
26 April 2005
GuideYou and sports-induced acne
Yes, there is a type of acne that is induced by sports participation. It is called acne mechanica, and it is caused by heat, pressure, occlusion of the skin and repetitive frictional rubbing. Sports gear or equipment…
26 April 2005