Acne and breakouts

Acne is a very common skin condition that causes spots, pimples, and inflamed areas of skin. It can affect teenagers and adults and may involve the face, chest, back, or shoulders. While acne is not dangerous, it can affect confidence and, in some cases, lead to scarring if not managed appropriately.

This page explains common acne symptoms, causes, self care options, and when to seek GP advice.

These articles are intended as educational sources, not diagnostic nor taking place of a proper medical assessment. If you need help with skin concerns, please book an appointment. We also offer specialist GP dermatology input at the Skin Clinic.

Skin Clinic

Symptoms of acne and breakouts

Acne can vary from mild to more persistent or inflammatory forms. Common features include:

Whiteheads and blackheads
Red or inflamed spots
Pus filled pimples
Tender or painful nodules under the skin
Oily or shiny skin
Breakouts that worsen before periods or during stress

Acne most often affects the face but can also appear on the chest, back, shoulders, and jawline.

Common causes of acne

Acne develops when pores become blocked with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Contributing factors include:

Hormonal changes, especially during puberty, pregnancy, or menstrual cycles
Excess oil production from sebaceous glands
Blocked hair follicles
Growth of skin bacteria
Certain medications, including steroids
Stress and poor sleep
Use of heavy or pore blocking skincare or makeup

Adult acne is common and may persist into the 30s, 40s, or beyond.

How a GP assesses acne

A GP will usually assess acne based on history and visual examination. During an appointment, they may ask about:

Duration and severity of symptoms
Areas of skin affected
Current skincare products and treatments tried
Hormonal symptoms, such as irregular periods or excess hair growth
Impact on confidence or mental wellbeing

Photographs are often sufficient for remote assessment.

Investigations

Dose increases are gradual and usually occur every 4 weeks, depending on tolerability.

This slow titration helps minimise side effects. Doses should only be increased following a medical review. Patients should not self-adjust dosing.

Self care and lifestyle measures

For mild acne, self care can help reduce breakouts:

Wash affected skin gently once or twice daily
Use non comedogenic skincare and makeup
Avoid harsh scrubs or over washing
Do not squeeze or pick spots
Keep hair clean and away from the face
Change pillowcases regularly
Manage stress and prioritise sleep

Improvement often takes several weeks, even with good skincare.

Medical treatments a GP may recommend

If acne does not improve with self care, a GP may suggest:

Topical treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids
Topical or oral antibiotics for inflammatory acne
Combination treatments
Hormonal treatments in selected patients

Treatment choice depends on acne severity, skin type, and medical history. Results usually take 6 to 8 weeks.

When to seek urgent medical advice

Seek urgent medical advice if:

Acne is associated with rapidly worsening swelling, redness, or pain
There are signs of skin infection, such as spreading redness or fever
Severe acne is causing significant distress or scarring

When to seek GP review

You should consider a GP appointment if:

Acne has not improved after 6 to 8 weeks of self care
Breakouts are painful, scarring, or widespread
Acne is affecting your confidence or mental health
You suspect a hormonal cause
You want advice on prescription treatments

Early treatment can reduce the risk of long term scarring.