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Acne

Also called: Acne, pimples, zits, breakouts, acne vulgaris

Pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads from clogged pores, most often on the face, chest, and back. It's very common, especially in teens, and many treatments work.

TypeA skin condition
Common inTeens and young adults
TreatmentCreams, washes, or pills

Overview

Pores clog with oil and dead skin. Bacteria and inflammation turn them into red pimples or deeper cysts.

Hormones, some medicines, and genes play a role. Chocolate and dirt don't cause acne.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads

Less common

  • Painful deep cysts
  • Dark spots or scars

When to get medical care

Call 911Acne isn't an emergency. Call 911 for trouble breathing or face swelling.
Get care todaySudden, severe acne with fever and joint pain.
See a doctor soonAcne that doesn't improve after 2 to 3 months of treatment, scars, or causes distress.

Causes

Oil, dead skin, bacteria, and inflammation in pores, driven by hormones.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
  • It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Teen years
  • Family history
  • PCOS
  • Some medicines

Possible complications

  • PCOS: Can cause acne in women

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional can tell by looking.

Questions you may be asked

  • What you've tried
  • Periods and medicines

The exam

A skin check.

Treatment

Treatment takes 6 to 8 weeks to work.

Self-care

  • Wash twice a day with a gentle cleanser
  • Don't pick or pop pimples: it can scar
  • Use oil-free, non-comedogenic products

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Over-the-counter creams
Mild to moderate acneCan dry or bleach fabric.
Prescription treatments
Moderate to severe acneIsotretinoin causes severe birth defects; strict pregnancy prevention is required.

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To help prevent breakouts:

  • Wash gently
  • Don't pick

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Teens: Acne can affect mood and confidence. Treatment helps.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Some skin medicines, like isotretinoin and retinoid creams, aren't safe in pregnancy.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Acne usually improves with treatment and often fades with age.

Myths and facts

Myth: Acne is caused by dirty skin.

Fact: Acne comes from oil, clogged pores, bacteria, and hormones. Scrubbing hard can make it worse.

Myth: Chocolate causes acne.

Fact: Studies don't show chocolate alone causes acne. Some people notice dairy or sugar matters.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • Which treatment fits my skin?
  • How can I prevent scars?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Acne

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.