Condition
Acne
Acne is one of the most common reasons patients ask for a medical opinion, and it is rarely only a skincare problem. Assessment looks at the type of acne, how long it has been active and what may be driving it, because that decides whether skin care, medical management or in-clinic treatment is appropriate.
What is Acne?
Acne is an inflammatory condition of the oil gland and hair follicle. Blocked follicles, increased oil production, bacterial overgrowth and inflammation combine to produce blackheads, papules, pustules and, in some patients, deeper nodules. It can begin in the teenage years or appear for the first time in adulthood, and it can leave marks or scarring if inflammation is left active for a long period.
Common signs and concerns
- Blackheads, whiteheads or a rough, congested texture
- Red, tender spots that come and go in the same areas
- Deeper, painful lumps that heal slowly
- Oiliness through the central face, or shine returning quickly
- Marks, redness or pigmentation left behind after a spot settles
- Breakouts on the jawline, chest or back as well as the face
Possible contributing factors
- Hormonal patterns, including cycle-related and adult-onset acne
- Genetic tendency to increased oil production
- Occlusive skincare or make-up, and over-washing
- Certain medications and supplements
- Stress, sleep disruption and, for some, dietary triggers
- Picking or squeezing, which increases the risk of marking
When to seek professional assessment
See a doctor if acne is painful, leaving marks or scars, not responding to over-the-counter products after a few months, or affecting your confidence. Deep nodular or cystic acne should be assessed early, because treating inflammation promptly is the most reliable way to limit long-term scarring.
How Dr Farzana assesses this concern
Dr Farzana begins with a private medical consultation: your history, skin type, previous treatments, medication and daily routine are reviewed before the area is examined in good light. Where relevant she will discuss photography for your own records, explain which changes are realistically treatable and which are not, and set out a staged plan with review points.
Treatments that may be considered
These are options offered by Dr Farzana that may be discussed for this concern. Which, if any, is appropriate for you is decided only after a private medical assessment.
Suitability and important information
This page is general information only and is not medical advice or a diagnosis. Suitability for any treatment is confirmed at a private medical consultation, including a review of your history, medication and goals. Risks, alternatives, aftercare and realistic outcomes are discussed openly. Results vary between individuals and no treatment is suitable for everyone.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is acne?+
Acne is an inflammatory condition of the oil gland and hair follicle. Blocked follicles, increased oil, bacteria and inflammation combine to produce blackheads, spots and, in some patients, deeper tender lumps on the face, chest or back.
Is adult acne common?+
It is very common, particularly in women, and it can appear for the first time in your twenties, thirties or later. Adult acne often behaves differently from teenage acne, which is why the pattern is assessed rather than assumed.
Can acne be treated in clinic?+
In-clinic options can support acne-prone skin and the marks left behind. Active, inflammatory acne is always assessed medically first, and Dr Farzana will explain openly if medical management or a dermatology referral is the more appropriate starting point for you.
Can hormones, stress or lifestyle make acne worse?+
For many patients they play a part. Cycle-related patterns, sleep disruption, stress, certain medications and occlusive products can all influence how active the skin is, so these are reviewed during your consultation.
Should scarring be treated while acne is still active?+
Scar work is normally planned once the acne has settled, so the results are not undermined by ongoing inflammation. Dr Farzana will map out the sequence with you so you know what happens at each stage.
How much improvement is realistic?+
The aim is measurable improvement in congestion, inflammation and marking, and many patients see a meaningful difference. Skin varies between individuals, so realistic expectations and review points are agreed before anything begins.
How does Dr Farzana assess acne?+
She reviews your history, medication, previous treatments and routine, then examines the skin in good light to identify the type of acne and what may be driving it. That assessment decides whether skincare, medical management or in-clinic treatment is discussed.
When should I see a doctor about acne?+
Please arrange an assessment if acne is painful, leaving marks or scars, not settling with over-the-counter products, or affecting your confidence. Deeper nodular acne is best reviewed early, because treating inflammation promptly is the most reliable way to limit long-term scarring.
Where Dr Farzana practises
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