Acne is an inflammatory condition of the skin due to an increased production of sebum that causes blocked pores (blackheads and whiteheads) and inflamed red papules and pustules, otherwise known as spots.

Acne commonly occurs on the face, on the neck, on the back and on the chest.

No, acne is not contagious.

Acne usually disappears on its own during teenage years. Adult acne on the other side is much less likely to clear on its own without treatment.

Acne can appear immediately after birth and in those cases it’s called acne neonatorum or acne infantum.

There are a range of treatments for acne including topical creams and gels for less severe cases, oral antibiotics or hormonal treatments, oral contraceptive pills and prescription medicine (e.g. isotretinoin capsules). The treatment of acne flares is crucial to avoid the development of acne scars.