Differin gel UK

Differin gel UK, Acne is common and potentially distressing, but is usually treatable. Many young people have some acne, usually lasting about 4-5 years, although acne is not uncommon in adults and can last longer. The face is the most commonly affected area, although it can also occur on the chest and back and less frequently on the buttocks and in other places.

Acne is often triggered by hormonal changes, especially at puberty. Oil-producing glands in the skin are sensitive to hormone balance. Too much of the oily secretions (sebum), combined with shed skin cells, blocks pores and leads to acne.

Blackheads and whiteheads develop. The acne bacteria (cutibacterium acnes) grow in the blocked pores leading to inflammation, pustules, and cysts.

Severe acne with pustules, nodules, and scarring needs to be assessed with a doctor face-to-face and possible specialist referral.

Acne is not the same as rosacea, which sometimes appears similar, although there are no blackheads with pure rosacea.

Untreated, acne usually clears up without scarring. Acne can be treated with non-prescription skin preparations (creams, gels, and solutions) bought from chemists/pharmacies