Whiteheads and/or blackheads

Red and painful pimples

Deeper lumps (cysts or nodules)

Acne results when oil ducts below the skin get clogged. Factors that help cause acne include:

Hormone changes during adolescence

Changes in hormone levels before a female’s menstrual period or during pregnancy

Rich moisturizing lotions or oily makeup

Emotional stress

Nutritional supplements that have iodine

Some anticonvulsive medications (for seizures) and lithium (used to treat some forms of depression)

Illegal (anabolic) steroids (used for muscle-building)

A topical cream, gel, or liquid with retinoic acid (Retin-A). { Note : Retin-A makes your skin more sensitive to the sun.}

A topical cream, lotion or wipe with an antibiotic, such as clindamycin or erythromycin.

An antibiotic pill, such as minocycline or tetracycline. { Note : These medicines can make birth control pills less effective and make your skin more sensitive to the sun.}

For some females, a specific birth control pill.

Oral retinoic acid (Accutane). This is usually prescribed for severe acne. { Note : Discuss this medicine with your health care provider. Females should not get pregnant while they take this medicine and for at least 1 month after stopping it as it can cause severe birth defects. There is also some evidence that pregnant females should avoid contact with sperm from males who take Accutane. In addition, Accutane may cause depression, phychosis, and rarely, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts, and suicide.}

Do you have any of these problems?

• The acne results in scarring.
• The pimples are big and painful or widespread.
• The acne causes a lot of emotional embarrassment.