Acne Health Center

Diagnosis is made by physical exam, and treatment is primarily preventive (careful face washing, not popping zits, avoiding cosmetics). Many over the counter products contain benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol, or salicylic acid which will kill bacteria and dry the skin, leading to clearing of the face.

To diagnose acne, a dermatologist will first examine your skin to make sure you have acne. Other skin conditions can look like acne. If you have acne, the dermatologist will:

  • Grade the acne. Grade 1 is mild acne. Grade 4 is severe acne.
  • Note what type, or types, of acne appear on your skin.

Questions to Discuss with Your Doctor:

  • At what age did your problem with acne begin?
  • Do you have blackheads, whiteheads, pustules, or cysts?
  • If so, what areas are involved: your face, chest, back?
  • What is your skin-care routine?
  • What products do you use? Do any of them help?
  • What medications have you tried (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, Retin-A, antibiotics, Accutane)?
  • If you are female, does your acne get worse around the time of your menstrual period and do you have regular menstrual periods?
  • What medicines do you take, including over-the-counter medicines and birth-control pills?
  • Have you been developing extra body or facial hair?
Reviewed by: 
Review Date: 
April 3, 2012
Last Updated:
June 28, 2013
Source:
dailyrx.com