Acne: More Than Just Pimples – Understanding Treatment Options and How Medicines Can Help

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting teenagers and adults alike. While many people think acne is simply a normal part of growing up, it is actually a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can have a significant impact on confidence, mental wellbeing and quality of life.

The good news is that effective treatments are available, and choosing the right approach early can help reduce long-term scarring and improve skin health.

What causes acne?

Acne develops when hair follicles (pores) become blocked with excess oil (sebum), dead skin cells and bacteria. This process is influenced by hormones, particularly during puberty, but acne can affect people well into adulthood.

Several factors contribute to acne:

• Increased oil production

• Blocked pores (blackheads and whiteheads)

• Growth of acne-causing bacteria

• Inflammation within the skin

Contrary to popular belief, acne is not caused by poor hygiene, and scrubbing the skin too aggressively can actually make it worse.

Who gets acne?

Acne most commonly begins during adolescence, but it can affect people at almost any age.

Some people experience:

• Mild occasional breakouts

• Persistent acne throughout adulthood

• Hormonal acne

• Acne affecting the chest, shoulders or back as well as the face

Women are more likely than men to experience acne into their 30s and 40s.

Common myths about acne

There are many misconceptions about acne that can delay effective treatment.

Myth: Acne is caused by dirty skin.

False. Acne develops beneath the skin surface and is not caused by poor hygiene. Over-washing may irritate the skin and worsen inflammation.

Myth: Chocolate and greasy foods cause acne.

There is no single food that causes acne. Some people may notice worsening symptoms with high-glycemic foods or dairy products, but diet is only one of many contributing factors.

Myth: Everyone grows out of acne.

While many teenagers improve with age, acne often persists into adulthood, particularly in women.

Why treating acne early matters

Acne isn't simply a cosmetic concern.

Untreated acne can lead to:

• Permanent scarring

• Dark marks after pimples heal (post-inflammatory pigmentation)

• Reduced self-confidence

• Anxiety and depression

• Social withdrawal

Early treatment can reduce both the severity of acne and the likelihood of permanent scarring.

Building an effective skincare routine

Managing acne involves more than simply applying a spot treatment.

A consistent skincare routine usually includes four key steps:

Gentle cleansing

Wash the skin with a mild, non-irritating cleanser once or twice daily to remove excess oil without stripping the skin.

Moisturizing

Many acne treatments can dry or irritate the skin. Using a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer helps maintain the skin barrier and improves comfort.

Sun protection

Daily sunscreen is important because several acne treatments increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that is labelled "non-comedogenic" or "oil-free."

Evidence-based treatment

Over-the-counter treatments can be very effective for mild acne.

Common ingredients include:

• Benzoyl peroxide, which reduces bacteria and inflammation while helping unblock pores.

• Salicylic acid, which gently exfoliates inside pores to prevent blackheads and future breakouts.

• Azelaic acid, which helps reduce inflammation, bacteria and pigmentation.

• Niacinamide, which calms inflammation and supports skin barrier function.

More severe acne may require prescription treatments from a GP or dermatologist.

Why salicylic acid is a popular choice

Salicylic acid is one of the most widely used ingredients for treating acne-prone skin.

Unlike physical scrubs, which can irritate sensitive skin, salicylic acid works by gently dissolving dead skin cells inside pores.

Regular use may help:

• Reduce blackheads and whiteheads

• Prevent new breakouts

• Improve oily skin

• Reduce inflammation

• Improve post-acne pigmentation

It is often well tolerated when introduced gradually into a skincare routine.

When should you see your GP?

Medical review is recommended if acne:

• Is leaving scars

• Is painful or cystic

• Covers large areas of the body

• Does not improve after several months of treatment

• Is causing significant distress or affecting mental health

Prescription medications—including topical retinoids, oral antibiotics or hormonal treatments—may be appropriate depending on the severity of acne.

How can a Home Medicines Review help?

Although acne itself is not usually the primary reason for a Home Medicines Review (HMR), medication reviews can identify medicines that may contribute to acne or affect treatment outcomes.

An Accredited Pharmacist can assess:

• Whether prescribed acne medicines are being used correctly

• Potential interactions between acne treatments and other medications

• Medicines that may worsen acne as a side effect

• Appropriate use of antibiotics to reduce resistance

• Strategies to improve adherence and minimize side effects

• Whether referral back to the GP or dermatologist may be beneficial

  
  

For people taking multiple medicines, an HMR helps ensure that all treatments—including those for skin conditions—are being used safely and effectively.

If you're taking multiple medications and have concerns about side effects, medicine interactions or treatment effectiveness, ask your GP whether a Home Medicines Review may be appropriate. An Accredited Pharmacist can help optimise your medications and support your overall health.