Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with sebum and dead skin cells. It can appear as blackheads, whiteheads, pimples or cysts, mainly on the face, forehead, chest, upper back and shoulders.
Although most common during adolescence, acne can appear at any age and its severity ranges from mild to severe inflammatory forms. Hormonal changes, certain medications and genetics all play a role.
In the online consultation, the doctor grades the type and severity from the questionnaire and photos, rules out other causes and prescribes a topical treatment when the acne is mild to moderate. Nodules, cysts and scarring need an in-person assessment.