Acne - How common is it?

Acne is the most common skin problem that affects young people. It's most common in teenagers, but it's getting more common in adults.

Most people get some acne. About 8 in 10 teenagers have spots at some point.[1]
In one study, about half the teenagers aged 14 to 16 had acne.[2]
About 3 in 10 teenagers have acne that's bad enough to need treatment.[3]
More people over 25 have acne now than in the past.[4] We don't know why.

References

Chu TC. Acne and other facial eruptions. Medicine. 1997; 25: 30-33.
Smithard A, Glazebrook C, Williams HC. Acne prevalence, knowledge about acne and psychological morbidity in mid-adolescence: a community-based study. British Journal of Dermatology. 2001; 145: 274-279.
Garner S. Acne vulgaris. In: Williams H. Evidence-based dermatology. BMJ Publishing Group, London, UK; 2003.
Cunliffe WJ. Management of adult acne and acne variants. Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery. 1998; 2: 7-13.

This information does not replace medical advice. If you are concerned you might have a medical problem please ask your Boots pharmacy team in your local Boots store, or see your doctor.