Problems related to severe acne

Acne vulgaris (AV) is a very common inflammatory condition of the skin that affects as many as 90% of teenagers. Although generally seen as a mild problem that will clear in adult life, half will continue to have symptoms beyond their teens, although most will resolve by the age of 30.¹ Mild cases may settle without lasting ill effects, but one in five people with more severe cases will develop nodules and cysts and may be left with permanent, unsightly scarring.² This article focuses on of the management of severe AV and more moderate cases that have failed to respond to the topical treatments or oral antibiotics.