Acne

Acne is a common skin condition that can cause spots, blackheads, or oily skin, often affecting the face, chest, or back. While it’s most common in teenagers, many adults also experience acne, which can sometimes impact confidence as well as skin health.

Mild cases may improve with good skincare and over-the-counter treatments, but prescription options are often needed for more persistent or severe acne.

Through 123Meds, you can receive expert-approved acne treatments via our UK-registered online pharmacy service, with prescriptions reviewed by clinicians and delivered discreetly straight to your door.

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Acne (or acne vulgaris) is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Your skin contains tiny glands—called sebaceous glands—that produce an oily substance (sebum) to help keep your skin and hair moisturised. However, when too much oil is produced, it can mix with dead skin and bacteria, leading to blocked pores and breakouts.

Acne affects up to 95% of teenagers in the UK and can also continue into adulthood. Around 25–30% of people will develop moderate to severe acne. During adolescence, it's more common in boys, but in adulthood, women are more likely to be affected than men.

For many, acne can be more than just a skin issue—it can feel embarrassing, impact self-esteem, and even affect mental health.

Common symptoms of acne include:

Whiteheads – small, closed blocked pores
Blackheads – open blocked pores that appear dark
Pustules – inflamed red spots with white centres
Nodules – large, painful lumps beneath the skin

Breakouts often appear on the face, chest, shoulders, or upper back. In more severe cases, such as cystic acne, there is a greater risk of scarring.

While acne is primarily caused by blocked pores, several underlying factors can trigger or worsen breakouts. Understanding these triggers can help guide effective treatment.

Hormonal Acne

Hormonal changes can significantly increase oil production in the skin, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. This type of acne is especially common during puberty due to rising levels of androgens (male hormones), often affecting the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). In women, hormonal acne is frequently linked to the menstrual cycle. Fluctuations in oestrogen and progesterone—particularly in the week before a period—can trigger breakouts, typically around the jawline and lower face.

Cystic Acne

This is a severe form of acne where oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria become deeply trapped in the pores, causing painful, inflamed cysts. Cystic acne can lead to scarring and often requires prescription treatment.

Medication-Related Acne

Certain medications may cause acne as a side effect, especially those that influence hormone levels. Examples include corticosteroids, testosterone supplements, and lithium.

Cosmetic-Related Acne

Oil-based makeup and skincare products can block pores and worsen acne, particularly if not removed properly. Choosing non-comedogenic (non-pore-blocking), oil-free products and thoroughly cleansing your skin before bed can help reduce this risk.

Acne is a very common condition and can often be stubborn to treat. Most people need several weeks, or even months, before seeing significant improvement, and flare-ups may still occur along the way. The most effective approach combines consistent daily skin care with the right prescribed treatment.

Good skin care habits can make a big difference. Gentle cleansing is important, while harsh scrubs should be avoided as they can damage the skin barrier. Squeezing spots is best avoided, as this increases the risk of scarring and spreading bacteria. Choosing non-comedogenic (oil-free) skincare products and showering promptly after exercise or sweating can also help to keep pores clear.

At 123Meds, we prescribe a range of effective treatments tailored to the severity of acne. For mild to moderate cases, topical gels and creams can target inflammation, bacteria, and blocked pores. In more persistent or severe acne, oral antibiotics may be recommended, often alongside a topical treatment. Many people achieve the best results with a combination approach at the start, before continuing with a topical medicine to maintain long-term results.

Frequently asked questions

What is acne?
Acne is developed as blocked hair follicles in the skin by the additional oil secreted (sebum), dead cells, and bacteria that sometimes accompanies such blockages forming pimples, blackheads, and cysts.
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Does it result solely because of bad hygiene?
No, acne is not due to poor hygiene. Though washing your face is essential, acne is primarily due to other factors such as hormonal changes, genetics, stress, diet, and certain medications.
Is acne curable?
Acne can often be managed and controlled with treatments, but there is no permanent "cure." Proper skin care and consistent use of treatments can help prevent outbreaks and reduce severity.
Does diet affect acne?
Diet can be a contributing factor to acne, especially foods that raise insulin levels or cause inflammation in the body, such as sugary and processed foods. However, the relationship between diet and acne is complex and may vary for each person.
Can acne scars be treated?
Indeed, scars of acne are possible to treat, among which one finds topical creams, laser therapy, and microdermabrasion. Treatment of the onset of acne is also thought to prevent most scars.