Acne Vulgaris (Acne) Quiz
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Rashes
Redness of the skin
Scars or marks from the rash/wound
Have acne
There is a sore
Red spots on skin
Pimples
Not seeing your symptoms? No worries!
What is Acne Vulgaris (Acne)?
Also known as pimples, acne results from a blocked swollen pore. Causes include changes in hormone levels (e.g. puberty), medications, and direct pressure on the skin.
Typical Symptoms of Acne Vulgaris (Acne)
- New bumps appearing while some bumps are healing already
- Pus-filled blisters or bumps on the skin
- Skin problem on the chest, tummy or back
- Multiple areas of skin redness or red spots
- Pimples / Acne
- Scars or marks from the rash/wound
- Skin problems
- Premenstrual symptoms like discomfort and irritability
Diagnostic Questions for Acne Vulgaris (Acne)
Your doctor may ask these questions to check for this disease:
- Are some of your rashes healing while others are appearing?
- Do you have pus-filled blisters or bumps on your skin?
- Are there any skin problems on your stomach, chest, or back?
- Do you have multiple red areas or spots on your skin?
- Do you have acne?
Treatment of Acne Vulgaris (Acne)
Treatment begins with simple measures like reducing pressure and regular cleansing. Mild acne can be treated with various creams - some are applied during the day, and some at night. More severe cases may require oral medications. Patients taking acne pills should consult their doctor if planning for pregnancy.
Reviewed By:
Unnati Patel, MD, MSc (Family Medicine)
Dr.Patel serves as Center Medical Director and a Primary Care Physician at Oak Street Health in Arizona. She graduated from the Zhejiang University School of Medicine prior to working in clinical research focused on preventive medicine at the University of Illinois and the University of Nevada. Dr. Patel earned her MSc in Global Health from Georgetown University, during which she worked with the WHO in Sierra Leone and Save the Children in Washington, D.C. She went on to complete her Family Medicine residency in Chicago at Norwegian American Hospital before completing a fellowship in Leadership in Value-based Care in conjunction with the Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management, where she earned her MBA. Dr. Patel’s interests include health tech and teaching medical students and she currently serves as Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Arizona School of Medicine.
Yukiko Ueda, MD (Dermatology)
Dr. Ueda graduated from the Niigata University School of Medicine and trained at the University of Tokyo Medical School. She is currently a clinical assistant professor at the Department of Dermatology, Jichi Medical University, and holds several posts in the dermatology departments at Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Komagome Hospital, University of Tokyo, and the Medical Center of Japan Red Cross Society.
Content updated on Feb 13, 2025
Following the Medical Content Editorial Policy
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People with similar symptoms also use Ubie's symptom checker to find possible causes
- A pimple
- Red bumps with white centers
- Bulging patch of skin
- Pus in the breast
- Acne on the forehead
- Smelly bumps
- Pus in the chest
- Pus on the back of the neck
- Acne on my face
- Pus on the scalp
- Pus on the foot
- I have acne on my body
- Pus on the finger
- Pus on the cervix
- Pus in the thigh
See full list
Symptoms Related to Acne Vulgaris (Acne)
Diseases Related to Acne Vulgaris (Acne)
FAQs
Q.
Stubborn Blackheads? Why Your Pores Clog & Medically Approved Next Steps
A.
Blackheads form when pores clog with oil, dead skin, and bacteria, often influenced by hormones, comedogenic products, genetics, and friction; proven treatments include salicylic acid, topical retinoids, a gentle non-comedogenic routine, and, when needed, professional extraction or chemical peels. There are several factors to consider, including avoiding harsh DIY methods, realistic timelines of 4 to 12 weeks for results, possible diet links, and red flags that mean you should see a dermatologist. See below for complete guidance that can affect which next steps you choose.
References:
* Leyden JJ, et al. Acne Vulgaris: Pathogenesis, Classification, and Treatment. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2017;10:371-382. doi:10.2147/CCID.S154941. PMID: 29093617; PMCID: PMC5703477.
* Zouboulis CC, et al. The Role of Sebum in the Pathogenesis of Acne Vulgaris. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2017 Dec;7(Suppl 1):17-26. doi: 10.1007/s13555-016-0162-4. Epub 2017 Jan 27. PMID: 28130707; PMCID: PMC5705354.
* Rathi SK, D'Souza P. Topical retinoids in the treatment of acne vulgaris: a review of efficacy and safety. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2017 May;10(5):13-17. PMID: 28626551; PMCID: PMC5574768.
* Arif T. Salicylic acid as a peeling agent: a comprehensive review. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2020 Apr 17;13:17-27. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S241289. PMID: 32368032; PMCID: PMC7184497.
* Nast A, et al. Management of acne: an update. F1000Res. 2018 Jun 26;7:F1000 Faculty Rev-944. doi: 10.12688/f1000research.14923.1. PMID: 30061956; PMCID: PMC6054191.
Q.
Tired of bumps? Why your skin is trapped & medical steps for closed comedones
A.
Closed comedone bumps come from trapped oil and dead skin under a sealed pore; effective medical steps include first line topical retinoids, salicylic acid, targeted benzoyl peroxide, professional extractions or chemical peels, and hormone-directed therapy when indicated. There are several factors to consider; see below for triggers, what to avoid, a simple routine, realistic timelines for results, and red flags for when to see a doctor, which can change your next steps.
References:
* Zaenglein AL, Pathy AP, Schlosser BA, Alikhan A, Baldwin HE, Berson DS, Bowe WP, Graber ER, Harper JC, Keri JE, Leyden JJ, Lowe L, McGinley KJ, Seiverling EV, Siegfried EC, Stein Gold LF, Thyssen JP, Webster GF, Weinstein GD, Wu PA, Dolan NC, Esposito E, Fincher K, Gold J, Gottlieb AB, Horwitz E, McMichael AJ, Nelson KC, Orlow SJ, Parish LC, Parish JL, Rieder EA, Rodriguez DA, Sivamani RK, Webster SB, Weinkle AP. Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2016 May;74(5):945-73.e33. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2015.12.037. Epub 2016 Feb 17. PMID: 26840428.
* Dréno B, Pécastaings S, Corvec S, Veraldi S, Khammari A, Roques C. Acne: current concepts on pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies. Dermatoendocrinol. 2015 Jan 1;7(1):e983315. doi: 10.4161/19381980.2014.983315. PMID: 26312003; PMCID: PMC4518002.
* Bhate K, Williams S. Acne Vulgaris: Pathogenesis, Treatment, and More. Clin Dermatol. 2013 Dec;31(6):674-84. doi: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2013.05.003. Epub 2013 Aug 30. PMID: 24160279.
* Bagatin E, Costa A. The use of topical retinoids in acne. An Bras Dermatol. 2014 Jul-Aug;89(4):610-7. doi: 10.1590/abd1806-4841.20142823. PMID: 25054703; PMCID: PMC4148281.
* Bhardwaj S, Gupta P. Advances in the topical treatment of acne vulgaris. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2021 Oct;11(5):1477-1491. doi: 10.1007/s13555-021-00584-6. Epub 2021 Aug 17. PMID: 34403061; PMCID: PMC8534575.
Q.
Clogged Pores? Why Sebaceous Filaments Persist + Medical Next Steps
A.
Those tiny dots on the nose and chin are usually sebaceous filaments, normal oil channels in pores that can look gray or tan and are not blackheads. They keep returning because pores continuously produce sebum and refill, and their visibility increases with oil, dead skin, hormones, aging, and mild oxidation. While you cannot remove them permanently, salicylic acid, retinoids, gentle non-comedogenic routines, and occasional clay masks can reduce their appearance, and painful cysts, scarring, or rapid worsening should prompt medical care; there are several factors to consider, so see the complete guidance below.
References:
* Zouboulis CC, Katsambas AD, Kligman AM. Sebaceous glands: look closer. *J Invest Dermatol*. 2008 Feb;128(2):240-52. doi: 10.1038/sj.jid.5701103. Epub 2007 Aug 2.
* Khayef G, Young J, Burns M, O'Bryan B, Feily A, Sivamani RK. Acne, Sebaceous Glands, and the Microbiome: A Comprehensive Review. *J Clin Aesthet Dermatol*. 2021 Mar;14(3):36-44.
* Lovászi J, Lakos G, Kemeny L. Sebum secretion and composition. *Dermatoendocrinol*. 2009 May;1(3):130-6. doi: 10.4161/derm.1.3.8471. Epub 2009 May 1.
* Kligman AM. Follicular keratinization: its control and significance. *Skin Pharmacol Appl Skin Physiol*. 2002 Sep-Oct;15(5):344-54. doi: 10.1159/000065099.
* Zouboulis CC. The microanatomy of the sebaceous gland. *Exp Dermatol*. 2006 Nov;15(11):860-70. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0625.2006.00494.x.
Q.
Adapalene Not Working? Why Your Skin Is Purging & Medically Approved Next Steps
A.
Early breakouts, redness, and peeling in the first 2 to 6 weeks are often normal purging from adapalene’s increased cell turnover, not treatment failure, with gradual clearing typically starting around weeks 8 to 12 if you apply a pea sized amount and increase use slowly. There are several factors to consider; see below to tell purging from a bad reaction and to avoid common mistakes that can make adapalene seem ineffective. If there is no improvement by 12 weeks, worsening after 8 to 10 weeks, or severe irritation or new areas of breakouts, medically approved next steps include reducing frequency, adding benzoyl peroxide, considering combination or hormonal therapy, and seeing a dermatologist, with full guidance and urgent red flags explained below.
References:
* Zaenglein AL, Thiboutot DM, Gollnick H, et al. Topical retinoids for acne: a comprehensive review of the current landscape and clinical insights. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2021 Jul;85(1):15-26.
* Abrams SA, Keri JE. Management of common adverse events during topical retinoid treatment of acne vulgaris: A literature review. J Drugs Dermatol. 2017 Aug 1;16(8):798-806.
* Tan JK, Tanghetti EA, Stein Gold L, et al. Acne vulgaris: a review of the current treatment landscape. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021 May 1;20(5):540-546.
* Tan J, Bissonnette R, Cloutier JM, et al. Safety and efficacy of topical retinoids in the treatment of acne vulgaris: a narrative review. J Cutan Med Surg. 2020 Jan/Feb;24(1):50-60.
* Bagatin E, Miot HA, Capareli MM, et al. Evolving strategies in acne therapy: new topical retinoid fixed-dose combinations. An Bras Dermatol. 2018 Sep-Oct;93(5):673-679.
Q.
Always Breaking Out? Why Pores Are "Glued" & How Salicylic Acid Melts Clogs (Expert Steps)
A.
Breakouts often persist because pores get glued shut by oil and sticky dead skin inside the follicle, and oil soluble salicylic acid can penetrate to dissolve these clogs, reduce inflammation, and help prevent new blackheads and whiteheads when used correctly. There are several factors to consider, including choosing the right strength, starting slowly, moisturizing, daily sunscreen, avoiding harsh combinations, recognizing purging versus irritation, and knowing when to see a doctor; see the complete steps and important details below to guide your next care decisions.
References:
* Makrantonaki E, Zouboulis CC. The Role of Sebum and Hyperkeratinization in the Pathogenesis of Acne Vulgaris: An Update. Cosmetics. 2023 Sep 6;10(5):107. doi: 10.3390/cosmetics10050107. PMID: 37701467; PMCID: PMC10529528.
* Arif T. Therapeutic Efficacy and Safety of Salicylic Acid in Dermatology: A Review. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2023 Jul 22;16(7):1037. doi: 10.3390/ph16071037. PMID: 37497672; PMCID: PMC10385966.
* Zaenglein AL. The Role of Topical Therapeutics in the Management of Acne Vulgaris. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2021 Mar;22(2):169-181. doi: 10.1007/s40257-020-00569-w. PMID: 33713374.
* Arif T, Adil M, Singh M, Mithal A. Pathogenesis of acne vulgaris: A comprehensive review. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021 Oct;20(10):3129-3139. doi: 10.1111/jocd.14375. Epub 2021 Sep 7. PMID: 34505299.
* Thiboutot D, Dréno B, Abanmi A, Albaev E, Aldwin E, Anand P, Bergler-Czajkowska M, de Guzman M, Goren A, Graber E, Habbema L, Harper J, Kemeny L, Leifsdottir R, Long A, Mazer N, Moustafa F, Palamaras I, Picardo M, Saraceno R, Shear R, Suh DH, Tsutsumi A, Wu W, Zeichner J, Zouboulis C, Zaenglein AL. Global Alliance for Improving Outcomes in Acne: update on the management of acne vulgaris. Br J Dermatol. 2022 Mar;186(3):421-432. doi: 10.1111/bjd.20917. Epub 2022 Feb 21. PMID: 35199147.
Q.
Can acne get worse before it gets better when starting treatment?
A.
Acne can sometimes get worse before it gets better when starting new treatments.
References:
Zamil DH, Perez-Sanchez A, & Katta R. (2020). Acne related to dietary supplements. Dermatology online journal, 32941710.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32941710/
Vongraviopap S, & Asawanonda P. (2016). Dark chocolate exacerbates acne. International journal of dermatology, 26711092.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26711092/
Callender VD, Preston N, Osborn C, Johnson L, & Gottschalk RW. (2010). A Meta-analysis to Investigate the Relation Between .... The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology, 20877537.
Q.
Can certain foods or dairy products make acne worse?
A.
Some studies suggest that eating dairy products might make acne worse, but more research is needed to be sure.
References:
Aghasi M, Golzarand M, Shab-Bidar S, Aminianfar A, Omidian M, & Taheri F. (2019). Dairy intake and acne development: A meta-analysis of .... Clinical nutrition (Edinburgh, Scotland), 29778512.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29778512/
Meixiong J, Ricco C, Vasavda C, & Ho BK. (2022). Diet and acne: A systematic review - PubMed - NIH. JAAD international, 35373155.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35373155/
Juhl CR, Bergholdt HKM, Miller IM, Jemec GBE, Kanters JK, & Ellervik C. (2018). Dairy Intake and Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review and .... Nutrients, 30096883.
Q.
Can stress really make acne worse?
A.
Yes, stress can make acne worse by increasing oil production and inflammation in the skin.
References:
Yosipovitch G, Tang M, Dawn AG, Chen M, Goh CL, Huak Y, & Seng LF. (2007). Study of psychological stress, sebum production and acne .... Acta dermato-venereologica, 17340019.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17340019/
Jović A, Marinović B, Kostović K, Čeović R, Basta-Juzbašić A, & Bukvić Mokos Z. (2017). The Impact of Pyschological Stress on Acne. Acta dermatovenerologica Croatica : ADC, 28871928.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28871928/
Alzahrani LA, Alfurayh NA, Jadaan NS, Alqahtani RS, & Alqahtani BA. (2025). Impact of Stress on the Prevalence of Acne Among Medical .... Cureus, 40988809.
Q.
Why does my skin get redder after applying acne cream?
A.
Your skin might get redder after using acne cream because it can cause irritation or an allergic reaction. See below to understand more.
References:
Foti C, Romita P, Borghi A, Angelini G, Bonamonte D, & Corazza M. (2015). Contact dermatitis to topical acne drugs: a review .... Dermatologic therapy, 26302055.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26302055/
Otlewska A, Baran W, & Batycka-Baran A. (2020). Adverse events related to topical drug treatments for acne .... Expert opinion on drug safety, 32347138.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32347138/
Zeichner JA. (2012). Optimizing topical combination therapy for the treatment of .... Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD, 22395581.
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Link to full study:
https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2024.08.29.24312810v1References
Zaenglein, A. L. (2018). Acne vulgaris. New England Journal of Medicine.
https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMcp1702493Ogé, L. K., Broussard, A., & Marshall, M. D. (2019). Acne vulgaris: Diagnosis and treatment. American Family Physician.
https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/1015/p475.htmlHabeshian, K. A., & Cohen, B. A. (2020). Current issues in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Pediatrics.
https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article-abstract/145/Supplement_2/S225/34371