Frequently Asked Questions about Acne

During the pre-teen and teenage years, the sebaceous glands become more active, which directly contributes to the development of acne.

This late-onset form of acne is more common in women and is known as adult female acne. Epidemiological data indicate that approximately 50% of women aged 20–30 and 25% of women aged 30–40 have adult acne of varying severity.

The face, neck, chest, upper back, shoulders and upper arms are the most common sites. These areas are rich in sebaceous glands that are sensitive to androgens.

In adult women, acne lesions most often occur on the lower half of the face, around the jawline, as red spots with marked inflammation or pain. Unlike teenage acne, there are fewer blackheads and whiteheads (comedones).

Acne is an inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous units. Its main contributing factors are increased sebaceous gland activity and androgen-stimulated excess sebum production (seborrhoea); abnormal keratinisation, blockage of the pilosebaceous follicle and formation of the microcomedone, the initial acne lesion; inflammation; and proliferation of Cutibacterium acnes. Hormonal disorders, family history, certain medicines, unsuitable cosmetics and skincare products, diabetes, obesity, smoking, stress and diet are among the other factors involved in its development.

Milk, sugar, fats and chocolate have been studied extensively, but the findings are not entirely consistent. Patients are advised to avoid foods they have noticed make their acne worse.

Stress can worsen acne and trigger flare-ups.

Hormonal disorders are a major factor in worsening acne. Even in people with regular menstrual cycles, acne may worsen before menstruation, confirming the role of hormones in its development. Oral contraceptives are used to treat acne in some cases, particularly in women who also want contraception.

People with a family history of acne have a 3-fold higher risk of developing it than those without. The likelihood increases further if both parents had acne.

It is a misconception that acne, however mild, can be treated with cosmetics and aesthetic procedures alone. Depending on its severity and type, daily topical medication (a cream or lotion) or systemic treatment is necessary. Cosmetics and aesthetic procedures can support treatment but cannot cure acne on their own. A dermatologist is the medical specialist qualified to recommend appropriate acne treatment and suitable supporting cosmetics and aesthetic procedures, after a detailed assessment of each patient’s history and profile. Acne cannot be treated successfully without appropriate dermatological monitoring.

Combined acne treatments using both medicines and specialised LASERS and LIGHTS systems achieve faster improvement in lesions and help prevent acne scars. Specialist knowledge, training, experience and modern LASERS and LIGHTS technology are required to achieve the best possible results.

New-generation dermatological chemical peels, dermabrasion and intralesional corticosteroid injections are also important options in acne treatment.

The type and severity of acne, together with the way the skin heals, determine whether scars develop. Combined treatments using medicines and specialised LASERS and LIGHTS systems can achieve the best possible results more quickly.

Acne can have a profound psychological impact, often leading to low self-esteem, anxiety and depression. It can affect patients’ social and professional lives and their overall quality of life. Appropriate dermatological monitoring and the most effective treatment for each individual case are therefore essential.