Acne is a disorder of skin growth within the sebaceous glands commonly found on the face, neck, back, shoulders, and upper arms. Acne is very common in teenagers, though people can experience acne well into adulthood. Although acne is not life-threatening, it can cause scarring and can also be emotionally upsetting. The actual mechanisms of acne are very complex and may differ from one person to another.

Acne is characterized by:

• Blackheads
• Whiteheads
• Pimples
• Deeper lumps (also called cysts or nodules)
• Scars on the face, chest, and back

Treatment of acne will depend on the type and severity. Some acne can be treated with over-the-counter washes and creams. More severe cases may be treated with:

• Topical antibiotics
• Oral antibiotics
• Topical retinoids (like Retin-A®)
• Oral isotretinoin (like Accutane®)
• Oral contraceptives
• Other medications

Here are some places to get started:

• Our resources page