The Basics about Acne

As outlined in the Call-On-Doc Guide to Acne, acne generally falls into three main categories:

• Comedonal acne: whiteheads and blackheads caused by clogged pores

• Inflammatory acne: red bumps and pimples that may be tender or swollen

• Nodular-cystic acne: deep, painful cysts with a higher risk of scarring

Acne is most commonly influenced by genetics and hormones. Hormonal fluctuations increase oil (sebum) production, which can clog pores.

• In men, acne may appear on the face, chest, back, or shoulders

• In women, acne more commonly affects the chin, jawline, and lower face, often related to hormonal cycles

While acne is common during puberty, adult acne is also very common and can be effectively treated.

Acne develops when pores become blocked with oil and dead skin cells. The process often follows this progression:

1. Oil and dead skin clog the pore, forming a whitehead or blackhead

2. Bacteria and inflammation lead to red pimples

3. Deeper blockage and inflammation can result in cysts

A key rule in acne treatment is using products that are oil-free and non-comedogenic, meaning they do not clog pores.

For dry or sensitive skin:

• Use a gentle cleanser

• Moisturize with an oil-free product

• Salicylic acid cleansers are often well tolerated and help unclog pores

For oily skin:

• Benzoyl peroxide–based cleansers can help reduce bacteria and inflammation

• Adapalene gel (a topical retinoid) may be used at night

• Moisturizing is still important—dehydrated skin can produce more oil
  Note: Retinoids may irritate sensitive skin and should be introduced slowly.

There is no single “best” acne treatment. The ideal approach depends on:

• Age

• Severity of acne

• Location on the body

• Skin sensitivity

• Hormonal factors

Regardless of treatment, results take time. Skin cells take about 4–6 weeks to fully cycle, so improvement is not immediate. Consistency and patience are essential.

Dermatologist-approved advice on what to avoid:

DO NOT:

• Scrub aggressively

• Pick, squeeze, or pop pimples

• Over-exfoliate

• Use multiple new products at once

DO:

• Cleanse your face 1–2 times daily

• Use targeted spot treatments or pimple patches

• Keep routines simple and consistent

Acne scars are more likely with severe acne or frequent picking. Early treatment of active acne reduces scarring risk.

Dermatologist-recommended options for improving acne scars include:

• Treating acne early and consistently

• Avoiding picking or squeezing

• Topical retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) to improve texture and tone

• Chemical peels

• Laser therapy

• Microneedling

Call-On-Doc dermatologists recommend:

• Washing your face twice daily

• Avoiding harsh scrubs and excessive exfoliation

• Seeking professional care if over-the-counter products are ineffective

• Giving treatments adequate time to work

Some skin conditions can resemble acne. If treatments aren’t working, your condition may be something else, such as:

• Rosacea

• Yeast overgrowth on the skin

• Enlarged oil glands

A dermatologist can help clarify the diagnosis.

Whether you’re dealing with acne or another skin concern, Call-On-Doc provides convenient, affordable dermatology care online—without long waits or expensive office visits.

• Flat-fee online dermatology visits

• Care often available within 1–2 hours

• Upload photos and answer a few questions

• Prescriptions sent to your pharmacy the same day

• Subscription plans available for ongoing care

Get started today and take control of your skin health.