Acne

1. Adult Acne Slideshow Pictures
2. Take the Acne (Pimples) Quiz!
3. Helping Your Teen With Acne Slideshow Pictures

Medical Author:

Gary W. Cole, MD, FAAD

Gary W. Cole, MD, FAAD

Dr. Cole is board certified in dermatology. He obtained his BA degree in bacteriology, his MA degree in microbiology, and his MD at the University of California, Los Angeles. He trained in dermatology at the University of Oregon, where he completed his residency.

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Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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• Acne Overview
• Acne Causes
• When to Seek Medical Care
• Acne Diagnosis
• Acne Treatment
• Self-Care at Home
• Medical Treatment
• Acne Prognosis
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• Synonyms and Keywords
• Authors and Editors
• Read more on Acne from Healthwise
• Acne (Pimples) FAQs
• Viewer Comments: Acne (Pimples) - Length Symptoms Lasted

Acne is a red, irritating skin rash that is almost universal among individuals going through puberty in industrialized societies. It can, however, occur at all ages. Typical acne affects the skin of the face, chest, and back and rarely the neck and upper arms of teenagers and young adults.

Because acne typically occurs during a time of dramatic physical and psychological changes associated with the development of one's body image, it can exacerbate social withdrawal and even depression. Left untreated, severe acne can lead to disfiguring scarring which can be difficult to treat.

• Several myths exist about acne.



• Acne is not a result of uncleanliness or infrequent washing. In other words, acne does not result from too much dirt on the skin or in the pores. Too much scrubbing may actually make acne worse.



• Acne is not caused by eating "fast" foods, chocolate or high-fat foods.

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