Acne (an overactivity of oil production and plugging of the glands causing many pimples and blackheads that form on the face, neck, chest, back and upper shoulders)
Emergent Care - Have you identified one or more of the following symptoms?
None
Yes
No
Seek Immediate Medical Attention!
These symptoms can be life-threatening.
twenty percent of acne occurs in adults
acne is caused by an excess of sebum, an oily substance that lubricates the skin
sebum "over production" results from the glands being stimulated by testosterone
some oral contraceptives can be used to treat acne
acne is considered pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, boils, pustules or nodules
people are prone to acne if they have a positive family history, hormonal changes before periods, taking drugs such as lithium or corticosteriods
acne treatment prevents new pimples, but does little or nothing for existing pimples
acne treatment may not appear to be working for the first 2-3 weeks
an antibiotic and topical antiacne medication may be prescribed by a Health Care Provider for moderate to severe cases of acne
Urgent Care - Have you identified one or more of the following symptoms?
red streaks and signs of infection (tenderness, redness, discharge ,and/or swollen lymph glands)
redness around nose and cheeks
acne that leaves scars
acne does not respond to self management after 2-3 months
Yes
No
Contact Your Health Care Provider.
Self-Management - You can help in the following ways:
do not pick or squeeze pimples/ blackheads
wash face and affected area with mild soap (Dove, Neutragena) and water twice a day
remove cosmetics completely with hypoallergenic, fragrance free make-up remover
