Acne is a common skin condition that can cause pimples, redness, and irritation. For some people, acne can also lead to scarring and affect their daily lives. At Lægerne Danmark, our dermatologists offer thorough assessment and targeted treatment of acne in both young people and adults.
Acne is a common inflammatory skin condition that occurs when the sebaceous glands in the skin produce too much oil and the pores become clogged. This can lead to inflammation, pimples, blackheads, and in some cases, deeper nodules.
Acne can vary in severity and change over time, and the causes can include hormonal changes, heredity and genetic factors, stress, lifestyle, or influences from skin care and the environment. An early assessment by a dermatologist is important in order to choose the right treatment, alleviate symptoms, and reduce the risk of scarring.
Acne typically develops in several stages. First, sebum production in the skin's sebaceous glands increases, often as a result of hormonal changes. At the same time, dead skin cells can accumulate in the pores and form a plug that blocks the skin's excretory ducts.
When the pore is blocked, bacteria, especially Cutibacterium acnes, can multiply in the oily sebum. This can trigger an inflammatory reaction in the skin, causing the area to become red and tender and develop pimples, inflamed nodules, or cysts.
This process is an important part of explaining why acne occurs and why treatment often focuses on reducing sebum production, keeping pores open, and reducing inflammation in the skin.
Acne can manifest itself in different ways and vary in severity. Some people primarily experience mild skin changes, while others develop deeper and more inflamed breakouts.
This type is often referred to as mild acne and primarily manifests as blackheads and small pimples. Blackheads can be open (blackheads) or closed (whiteheads). Comedonal acne occurs when pores become clogged with sebum and dead skin cells, but without significant inflammation.
Inflammatory acne causes red, sore, and inflamed pimples on the skin. Bacteria and an inflammatory reaction play a major role here, and the skin may feel irritated or swollen around the breakouts.
This is a more severe form of acne, where deep, painful nodules or cysts form under the skin. These breakouts can be painful and are more likely to leave scars if not treated properly.
Hormonal acne is often seen in adult women and may be associated with hormonal fluctuations. The breakouts typically occur on the chin, jawline, or lower cheeks and may vary in line with the menstrual cycle or other hormonal changes.
Acne can manifest itself in several ways, and symptoms vary from person to person. Common signs include pimples and blackheads, redness and irritation, as well as deep nodules or cysts, which can be painful. Many people also experience scarring after previous outbreaks, which can leave long-lasting marks on the skin.
There are several different types of treatment depending on the severity and type of acne. The aim of treatment is to reduce inflammation, prevent new outbreaks, and protect the skin from scarring.
The most common options include:
Follow-up and adjustment of the treatment plan ensure that the treatment is continuously adapted for the best possible effect.
Acne in teenagers
In teenagers, acne is typically caused by hormonal changes during puberty, when the production of sebum in the skin increases. This can lead to clogged pores and breakouts of pimples and blackheads. Teenage acne is often seen in the T-zone, i.e. on the forehead, nose, and chin, where the sebaceous glands are most active.
Acne in adults (adult acne)
Acne can also occur or continue into adulthood. Adult acne is more common in women and may be associated with hormonal fluctuations, for example in connection with the menstrual cycle, stress, or hormonal contraception. The breakouts are often located on the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks and may consist of deeper and more painful pimples.
At Lægerne Danmark, our dermatologists help you get an overview of your skin, find the cause of outbreaks, and plan a treatment that suits you. We follow you closely throughout the process and adjust the treatment so that you get the best possible results and can feel comfortable throughout the entire process.
Do you have acne, or are you finding that your current treatment isn't working? Book an appointment with our dermatologists, either in person or via video consultation, and get a thorough assessment and treatment so you can get better control of your skin.
Yes, acne can occur at any age, and treatment is also effective for adults. Our dermatologists tailor the treatment to your situation.
It depends on the type of treatment and the condition of your skin. Many people see improvement within 4–8 weeks, but some treatments take longer.
Yes, especially deeper nodules or severe outbreaks can cause scarring. Early and proper treatment can reduce the risk.
It depends on the type and severity of acne. Our dermatologists will assess your skin and select the most effective treatment for you.