Acne - What will happen?

Acne usually affects teenagers. It often goes away as you get older, but this can sometimes take years.

For most people, acne lasts about five years.[2] But some people have acne for longer than this. About 3 in 100 men and 12 in 100 women still have acne when they're 25.[3] And about 1 in 100 men and 5 in 100 women have it into their 40s.[1] It's also possible for acne to start for the first time when you're older.

Treatments can help get rid of acne. But it can take two months before you can tell if your treatment is working.[4] You might need to keep using your treatment for six months or longer. Getting treatment early can prevent scarring.[2] [4]

If one treatment doesn't help you, it's worth going back to see your doctor. There may be another treatment that works better for you.

You'll probably be treated by your usual doctor. He or she may suggest you see a doctor who specialises in skin conditions (a dermatologist) if:[2]

Your acne is severe
You're at risk of getting scars
You've tried several treatments without finding one that works
An allergy or other problem could be causing your acne.

There are some things you can try yourself to keep your skin healthy. You may want to:[2] [5]

Clean your skin gently. Some people try to get rid of grease and spots by scrubbing their skin, but this can make acne worse.
Avoid touching your spots. Squeezing or picking your spots can cause scars.
Avoid sunburn. Some treatments for acne can make you more likely to get burnt if you go out in the sun.
If you shave, shave carefully. You could try electric shavers or safety razors, whichever is more comfortable.
Use oil-free make-up. Some types of make-up can block pores and cause spots.

You may find that acne makes you feel embarrassed or depressed. Talking to your doctor might help. He or she will be able to help you find the best treatment for you. He or she may also be able to give you advice about looking after your skin.[2]

References

Cunliffe WJ. Management of adult acne and acne variants. Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery. 1998; 2: 7-13.
National Institute of Clinical Excellence. Referral practice: a guide to appropriate referral from general to specialist services. December 2001. Available at http://guidance.nice.org.uk/page.aspx?o=ReferralAdvice (accessed on 27 March 2007).
Goulden V, Stables G, Cunliffe W Prevalence of facial acne in adults. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 1999; 578: 577�580.
British National Formulary. Acne and rosacea. BNF 53. March 2007. Section 13.6. British Medical Association, and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain. Also available at http://bnf.org (accessed on 27 March 2007).
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Questions and answers about acne. January 2006. Available at http://www.niams.nih.gov/hi/topics/acne/acne.htm (accessed on 27 March 2007).

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.