Acne Treatment

Acne is a very common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles (pores) become clogged with oil (sebum), dead skin cells and sometimes bacteria. This can lead to different types of spots, including whiteheads (closed clogged pores), blackheads (open clogged pores), pimples (inflamed bumps containing pus), papules (small red bumps), nodules and cysts (deeper, often painful lumps).

The severity of acne is often categorised as mild (mostly whiteheads and blackheads, with a few papules and pustules), moderate (more widespread whiteheads and blackheads, with many papules and pustules), or severe (many large, painful papules, pustules, nodules or cysts, sometimes with scarring).

Many people choose to treat acne to improve the comfort and appearance of their skin. Acne can be uncomfortable, sometimes feeling hot or painful to the touch, and treating it can also help reduce the risk of longer-term scarring.

WebMed offers a range of acne creams for the face, back and chest, including topical retinoid creams, topical antibiotic creams and combination treatments.

Topical retinoids help normalise the way skin cells are shed inside hair follicles, reducing the blocked pores that contribute to acne. They can also help improve skin texture and reduce the development of new spots over time. Retinoids are commonly used as part of long-term acne management because they address one of the underlying processes involved in acne. Consistent use is usually required before noticeable improvements occur.

Antibiotics for acne can be taken as a tablet or applied topically. This may help reduce inflamed spots and a reduction in redness and swelling. Acne antibiotics work by reducing the growth of acne-associated bacteria and lowering inflammation within the skin.

Broad-spectrum antibiotics inhibit all bacteria, including beneficial bacteria, whereas narrow-spectrum antibiotics target specific acne-causing bacteria. Because antibiotic resistance is an important concern, antibiotics are often prescribed for limited periods and frequently combined with other treatments.

Combination treatments contain two active ingredients that target different aspects of acne at the same time. For example, one ingredient may help unblock pores while another reduces bacteria or inflammation. A combination approach can improve outcomes because acne is caused by several interconnected processes.

It is common for acne to appear unchanged during the first few weeks of treatment. Some treatments may even cause temporary irritation or an apparent worsening of spots before improvement begins. These early changes do not necessarily mean the treatment is ineffective.

The type of treatment depends on the type of acne you are experiencing.

• Non-Inflammatory (Comedonal) — Blackheads or whiteheads only; no redness or inflammation. Clinicians may suggest a topical retinoid.
• Inflammatory (Mild) — Blackheads and whiteheads with some redness or pustules. Recommended treatment: a topical combination treatment if there are only a few pustules, or a topical antibiotic if there are many.
• Inflammatory (Moderate) — Many inflamed spots with significant redness. Clinicians may suggest a topical combination treatment used together with an oral antibiotic.
• Inflammatory (Severe) — Most of the face affected, predominantly pustules, cystic acne, evidence of scarring. Online treatment is not suitable at this level. Please speak to your GP.

If you are female and suspect your acne is hormonal (mostly around the jawline and cheeks, and worse during your period), consider speaking to your GP about the oral contraceptive pill.

Skin redness, inflammation and sometimes peeling is common when starting topical treatments. Always test on your inner arm first for a few days, then use on alternate days on affected areas, gradually increasing to daily as your skin tolerates it. If there is no response to oral antibiotic treatment after three months, see your GP for a face to face review.

Common side effects of antibiotic and retinoid acne treatments include skin dryness, redness, irritation, peeling and increased sensitivity to sunlight. Oral antibiotics may also cause stomach upset, while oral retinoids can lead to very dry skin and lips.

Mild irritation is often most noticeable during the first few weeks of treatment. As the skin adjusts, these symptoms frequently become less pronounced and easier to manage. Many people find that side effects gradually improve with continued use.

If side effects occur, it may help to review how the treatment is being used and check that the application instructions are being followed correctly. Using a suitable moisturiser alongside treatment may also help reduce dryness and irritation. Persistent, severe or worsening side effects should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Acne medicines should always be used according to the instructions provided by the prescriber or manufacturer. Using more treatment than recommended will not usually improve results and may increase the risk of skin irritation.

Some acne treatments can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight and ultraviolet exposure. This may raise the risk of sunburn, irritation or pigmentation changes if adequate protection is not used. Applying a suitable sunscreen and limiting excessive sun exposure can help protect the skin during treatment.

Common causes include insufficient treatment duration, inconsistent use, incorrect application, or acne that is more severe than first assessed. It is also possible that a different approach is required. A healthcare professional can advise whether continuing, adjusting or changing treatment is most appropriate.

Even after visible acne has cleared, the underlying tendency to develop breakouts may remain. Stopping treatment immediately can sometimes allow symptoms to return, particularly for people with persistent acne-prone skin. Ongoing skincare and, where appropriate, maintenance treatment may help preserve results.

Maintenance treatment is sometimes recommended after active acne has improved. The goal is to prevent new spots from developing and to maintain long-term control of the condition. Lower-intensity treatment may be sufficient at this stage, depending on individual circumstances.

Preventing recurrence often involves maintaining a consistent skincare routine and continuing treatment where clinically advised. Avoiding frequent changes to skincare products may also help reduce irritation and breakouts.

The decision to continue or stop treatment depends on symptom control, treatment response and the risk of recurrence. Some treatments are intended for short-term use, while others may form part of a longer-term management strategy. Treatment should not be stopped solely because improvement has occurred, unless this has been discussed with a healthcare professional.