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Acne
Acne is a common skin condition where hair follicles become blocked with oil and dead skin, leading to pimples, blackheads and spots. It most often affects the face, back and chest.
Causes & risk factors
- Excess oil (sebum) production
- Blocked hair follicles
- Acne-causing bacteria
- Hormonal changes, especially in teenagers
- Family history
- Certain cosmetics or medicines
Common symptoms
- Pimples and pus-filled spots
- Blackheads and whiteheads
- Oily skin
- Red, inflamed bumps
- Scarring in severe cases
Tests & diagnosis
- Clinical skin examination
- Testosterone (if hormonal cause suspected)
- Hormone tests in selected cases
Treatment & management
- Gentle cleansing and a suitable skincare routine
- Topical creams and gels as prescribed
- Oral medicines for moderate to severe acne
- Avoiding squeezing or picking spots
- Treatments for scarring after acne settles
When to see a doctor urgently
- Severe or scarring acne
- Acne not improving with over-the-counter products
- Sudden severe acne with other hormonal symptoms
- Painful, deep cysts or nodules
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about acne. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Does chocolate or oily food cause acne?
Diet has a limited role for most people, though some notice flares with certain foods. The main causes are oil, blocked pores and hormones.
Should I pop my pimples?
No. Squeezing spots can worsen inflammation and cause scarring. Gentle skincare and prescribed treatments are safer.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.