Acne and Acne Scarring

Acne is a chronic inflammatory condition of the hair follicle and oil gland. It may present as blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory papules, pustules, cysts, or deeper nodules. In adults, acne commonly affects the face, jawline, chest, back, and shoulders.

Acne develops due to a combination of factors, which may include:

• Increased oil (sebum) production

• Blockage of hair follicles

• Skin inflammation

• Hormonal influences

• Genetic predisposition

• Certain medications or skincare products

Not all contributing factors are present in every individual.

Acne may persist from adolescence or develop for the first time in adulthood. Adult-onset acne is common and may affect individuals with no prior history of acne.

Patterns, triggers, and response to treatment may differ from adolescent acne.

Adult female acne refers to acne occurring in women beyond adolescence. It often involves the lower face and jawline and may fluctuate with hormonal changes.

Adult female acne may persist from teenage years or develop for the first time in adulthood and often requires tailored management.

Assessment may consider:

• Hormonal influences

• Menstrual patterns

• Reproductive status and pregnancy planning

• Contraception use

• Medical history and current medications

• Potential medication interactions

These factors help guide safe and appropriate treatment selection.

Yes. Some acne treatments require careful consideration in women of reproductive age due to potential effects on pregnancy or interactions with other medications.

Specialist assessment allows appropriate counselling, selection of suitable treatments, and ongoing monitoring.

Medical review may be helpful if acne:

• Is moderate to severe

• Is persistent or worsening

• Is causing scarring or pigment changes

• Is affecting confidence or wellbeing

• Has not responded to initial treatment

• May require prescription or systemic therapy

Early assessment can help guide appropriate management and reduce the risk of long-term skin changes.

Acne management is individualised based on severity, skin type, scarring risk, and overall health.

Management may include:

• Topical treatments

• Oral medications

• Hormonal treatments where appropriate

• Systemic treatments in selected cases

• Skincare and lifestyle guidance

• Monitoring and adjustment over time

In Australia, some acne medications are only prescribed by dermatologists and require specialist assessment and monitoring.

Skincare is a key component of acne management and includes guidance on:

• Gentle cleansing routines

• Use of non-comedogenic products

• Avoidance of irritants that may worsen acne

• Appropriate moisturisers and sunscreens

Recommendations are tailored to skin type and the overall treatment plan.

Once active acne is adequately controlled, attention can be directed to acne scarring.

Assessment considers scar type, skin type, severity, and individual treatment goals. Management often involves a multimodal, staged approach, tailored to the individual.

Dermatologists are medical specialists trained in the diagnosis and management of skin conditions across all age groups. Specialist assessment allows careful consideration of medication safety, potential interactions, scarring risk, and appropriate follow-up.

In Australia, some acne medications can only be prescribed by a dermatologist and require specialist assessment and monitoring.

At Ready Dermatology, North Shore Health Hub, St Leonards, our dermatologist provides assessment and management of adult acne in accordance with Australian clinical and prescribing guidelines. Care is tailored to each individual, with attention to hormonal factors, scarring risk, and long-term skin health.