Acne Vulgaris

What is Acne Vulgaris?

Acne vulgaris is the most common form of acne, affecting teenagers and adults alike. It develops when hair follicles get clogged with oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria. It can range from mild (occasional pimples) to severe (deep, painful cysts that may scar).

What are the Causes of Acne Vulgaris?

• Excess oil (sebum) production from sebaceous glands.
• Clogged pores due to dead skin cells.
• Bacterial overgrowth (Cutibacterium acnes).
• Hormonal changes (puberty, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, PCOS).
• Genetics (family history increases risk).
• Lifestyle factors (stress, poor sleep, high sugar/dairy diet).
• Certain medications (steroids, lithium, androgens).

What are the Symptoms of Acne Vulgaris?

• Comedones (blackheads and whiteheads).
• Papules (small red bumps).
• Pustules (pus-filled spots).
• Nodules (large, painful lumps under the skin).
• Cysts (deep, pus-filled lumps that can scar).
• Commonly found on face, chest, shoulders, and back.
• Possible post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark marks) after healing.

What are the best Treatments for Acne Vulgaris?

1. Self-care & Over-the-counter (OTC):

• Wash gently twice daily with a mild cleanser.
• Use products with salicylic acid (unclogs pores).
• Benzoyl peroxide (reduces bacteria and inflammation).
• Niacinamide (reduces oiliness and redness).

• Shop our acne recommended skincare now

2. Prescription Treatments (Dermatologist-supervised):

• Topical retinoids (adapalene, tretinoin) → prevent clogged pores.
• Topical or oral antibiotics → reduce bacteria and inflammation.
• Hormonal treatments (combined oral contraceptives, spironolactone for women).
• Oral isotretinoin (Roaccutane®) → for severe, scarring acne.

3. Clinic & Professional Options:

• Chemical peels (salicylic, glycolic, lactic acid).
• Laser or light therapy.
• Medical facials or extractions.

• View our recommended acne treatments

How to prevent Acne Vulgaris?

1. Wash your face gently, avoid harsh scrubbing.
2. Remove makeup thoroughly before bed.
3. Use non-comedogenic (oil-free) skincare/makeup.
4. Don’t pick or squeeze spots (reduces scarring risk).
5. Manage stress, sleep well, eat a balanced diet.
6. Change pillowcases, towels, and clean makeup brushes often.

FAQs

Q1. Is acne vulgaris only a teenage condition?
No, it can affect adults too, especially women due to hormonal changes.

Q2. Can acne vulgaris cause scars?
Yes, untreated or severe acne can lead to scarring — early treatment helps prevent this.

Q3. How long does treatment take to work?
Most treatments take 6–12 weeks before noticeable improvement.

Q4. Can diet affect acne?
High sugar, processed foods, and dairy may worsen acne in some people.

Q5. Is acne vulgaris curable?
While there’s no “permanent cure,” effective treatments can control and prevent breakouts long-term.