Acne: Everyday Care and When to Seek Advice

Understanding spots

Acne can include blackheads, whiteheads and inflamed spots, and it can affect adults as well as teenagers. It involves hair follicles and oil-producing glands. Similar-looking rashes can have other causes, so an online description cannot confirm a diagnosis.

Gentle everyday care

Use a gentle cleanser, avoid scrubbing and do not pick or squeeze spots. A moisturiser that your skin tolerates can help with comfort. Non-comedogenic labelling can be useful when choosing products, but it does not guarantee that a product will suit everyone.

Avoid a cure-by-routine promise

There is no universal skincare routine that clears every case of acne. Repeatedly adding exfoliants, strong spot products or home remedies can cause irritation. Drinking extra water, detox routines or a prescribed food restriction should not be presented as a dependable acne cure.

When to seek medical advice

Persistent acne, deep or painful spots, scarring or significant distress deserve medical assessment. Do not wait for every cosmetic product to fail before asking for help. A medical professional can check the diagnosis and discuss suitable treatment; this page does not offer prescription treatment or establish a clinic's medical services.