Acne

Acne is a common skin condition that develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or deeper painful cysts and nodules on the face, chest, back, and shoulders. It is influenced by hormones, genetics, certain medications, and skin care products — not poor hygiene or diet alone — and affects people of all ages. Treatment depends on severity and may include topical retinoids, topical antibiotics or antimicrobials, oral antibiotics, or hormonal therapy, and most treatments require 6–12 weeks of consistent use before significant improvement is visible. Patients should avoid picking or popping pimples, use only non-comedogenic skin care products, and wear daily sunscreen, especially when using prescription topicals that increase sun sensitivity. A temporary worsening of acne (often called a “purge”) in the first few weeks of starting a new treatment is common and not a reason to stop the medication. Contact your provider if acne is not improving after 8–12 weeks of consistent treatment, new painful cysts develop, you are interested in additional treatment options, or you experience significant emotional distress related to your skin.