Acne Treatment
Acne is a common inflammatory skin condition that can affect both teenagers and adults. It can cause spots, cysts and scarring, and many people find that self-treatment is not enough. At Charlottenlund Privathospital, our specialists in dermatology offer individual assessment and targeted treatment for acne.
Acne (acne vulgaris) is a skin condition affecting the sebaceous glands and hair follicles. It causes blackheads, spots, pustules and, in some people, deep nodules – most commonly on the face, chest and back. Most people develop acne during their teenage years, but some continue to have it as adults. Acne can cause permanent scarring, and the risk increases the longer it takes before the acne is treated effectively. At Charlottenlund Privathospital, acne in teenagers and adults is assessed and treated by Susanne Birkballe, specialist in dermatology. Topical and tablet treatment can be started at the private hospital.
What is acne?
Acne develops when pores become blocked by sebum and dead skin cells, and bacteria in the pores contribute to inflammation. Hormonal changes during puberty increase sebum production, which is why acne most commonly begins during the teenage years. Around 85% of people aged 12–25 develop acne to some degree.
Acne is not contagious and is not caused by poor hygiene.
What does acne look like?
Acne can appear in several different ways, and most people have a combination of different types of lesions. Severity is assessed based on the number of spots, whether deep nodules are present, and whether scarring develops.
What makes acne worse?
Diet is rarely the only cause of acne, but it may play a role for some people. Small studies suggest that a diet high in refined carbohydrates and milk may worsen acne, while yoghurt and cheese do not seem to. Oily makeup, squeezing pimples and pressure on the skin can also cause more breakouts.
Adult acne
Acne is not just a teenage problem. In a Finnish study, 31% of 35-year-old women had acne on their face or back. In adult women, acne often appears on the jaw and chin and flares up before menstruation. If acne occurs alongside irregular periods, increased hair growth or hair loss, it may be relevant to check hormone levels. Redness and pimples in the middle of the face after age 30 may also be rosacea, which is treated differently.
When should you see a dermatologist about acne?
You should see a dermatologist if your acne does not improve after a couple of months using products from a pharmacy or treatment from your GP, if you develop deep, painful nodules, or if scarring starts to appear. This also applies if acne affects your mood, self-confidence or desire to spend time with others – even if your acne is not severe.
How does a dermatologist examine acne?
Diagnosis is based on a consultation and an examination of the skin. The dermatologist assesses the type and severity of the acne and checks for signs of scarring. It is helpful to bring along the products you use on your face. At Charlottenlund Privathospital, the examination is carried out by Susanne Birkballe, specialist in dermatology.
How is acne treated?
Acne can usually be treated effectively, but treatment works slowly, and results are only seen after several weeks. Treatment is stepped up according to the severity of the acne and the risk of scarring. If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, tell your dermatologist, as some treatments must not be used.
What can you do yourself?
Daily skincare should be gentle – harsh scrubbing and drying products often make acne worse. If products make your skin sting or itch, it may be contact dermatitis.
Referrals and payment
Many health insurance policies cover a consultation with a dermatologist, but insurers typically require a referral from your GP and prior approval. No referral is needed if you are paying for the consultation yourself. Prices are listed in the price list. Consultations take place at the main clinic in Charlottenlund.
Frequently asked questions
Does acne go away on its own?
For many people, acne becomes milder in their early 20s, but some continue to have acne as adults. Treatment shortens the course of acne and reduces the risk of scarring.
Can acne cause scarring?
Yes. Deep nodules and cysts carry the greatest risk, but scarring can also occur with milder acne. The longer effective treatment is delayed, the greater the risk.
Does diet affect acne?
Diet is rarely the only cause. Small studies suggest that a diet high in refined carbohydrates and milk may worsen acne for some people, while yoghurt and cheese do not seem to.
Should you squeeze pimples?
Pimples should not be squeezed, as this increases inflammation and the risk of marks and scarring.
Can you be treated for acne during pregnancy?
Some acne treatments must not be used during pregnancy, but others can be. Always tell your dermatologist if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
What is the difference between acne and rosacea?
Acne causes blackheads and usually begins in the teenage years. Rosacea does not cause blackheads, usually begins after age 30, and causes redness in the middle of the face.