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Acne

Acne is the term used for inflammation of the sebaceous (oil) glands of the skin and is one of the most common causes of facial rash. Acne is most well known as the spots, blackheads and pimples many adolescents experience during their teenage years, but can also occur in infants (infantile acne), with prolonged use of skin care products (acne cosmetica) or as a side effect of some medications (especially steroids).

Rosacea is a common persistent facial rash with redness, papules and pustules that typically occurs in women aged 30-50 years. The cause is still unknown. For more information visit the Rosacea page on Dermnet NZ.

Key Points:

80-90% of all teenagers develop some acne so you are not alone!
Diet is not considered a factor in acne, but if you notice increased acne after certain foods, (eg chocolate) discuss with your doctor and trial avoiding them.
Avoid picking and squeezing blackheads.
Avoid oily or creamy cosmetics, moisturisers and use cosmetics sparingly
Acne usually settles by the age of 20 years, if not earlier.
With treatment, most people can significantly reduce their acne symptoms.

Overview

For general information about acne, visit the following webpages or resources.

	Introduction and video explaining what acne is	NHS Choices

	Acne (spots) - an introduction	Best Treatments

	What are the symptoms of acne?	Best Treatments

	Acne vulgaris - the main type of acne	DermNet NZ

What can I do? - Self help measures

Everyone has an opinion as to what will help with acne - some of it is helpful and some is misleading! Find out for yourself, talk with your parents and your local pharmacist about what may work for you. If these simple measures have not helped, then do go and see your doctor. There are a wide range of treatments that can make a big difference.

	Live well with acne and common myths explained	NHS Choices

	Prevention and self help measures	Mayo Clinic
	Exit Disclaimer: Reliable website, but does contain advertising.

Treatments & Medication

In the last 20 years, treatment options for acne have improved significantly. The severe scarring that some people used to experience can be prevented in many cases if they receive proper review and treatment early enough. If you have mild acne, then often topical lotions (applied to the skin) is all you will need. For moderate to severe acne oral medication is usually required.

	What treatments work for acne?	Best Treatments

	Information about the common medications and creams used for acne treatment	NHS Choices

	Isotretinoin - medication information	NHS Choices

	Acne management - for mild, moderate and severe acne	DermNet NZ

Clinical Resources

This section will be of most interest to clinicians (eg nurses, doctors, pharmacists and specialists).

	Examination and assessment of acne severity

	Pharmacological treatment of acne depends on severity

	Isotretinoin for severe acne

	Isotretinoin - consent form

DISCLAIMER: Health Navigator NZ is intended to provide general advice only. If you have any medical concerns, you should see your doctor. Health Navigator NZ information has been selected from a variety of consumer health resources and countries, therefore it is likely there will be some variations. All medical information needs to be carefully reviewed with your health care provider.