Acne
Acne is a common skin condition caused by clogged pores, excess oil production, and inflammation, leading to breakouts and potential acne scars, At University Hospital Sharjah, our specialist dermatology team provides personalized medical acne treatments, advanced scar therapy, and expert skin care to help restore healthy, clear skin.
About Acne
Acne is a common skin condition that develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and inflammation. It can affect the face, chest, shoulders, and back, and may range from mild blackheads and whiteheads to inflamed pimples, nodules, or cysts.
Common acne concerns include persistent breakouts, redness, tenderness, oily skin, and acne scars. Hormonal changes, excess oil production, genetics, and certain lifestyle or medical factors may contribute to acne causes, although no single factor explains every case.
Early dermatology assessment can help control active breakouts, reduce the risk of scarring, and identify the most appropriate treatment for each skin type. At University Hospital Sharjah, our Dermatology team provides specialist assessment, medical acne treatment, and personalized care for active acne and acne scars.
Symptoms & Related Concerns
Common symptoms and related concerns associated with acne include:
Blackheads & Whiteheads
Blocked pores may appear as open blackheads or closed whiteheads.
Red or Inflamed Pimples
Inflamed spots may become red, swollen, or tender.
Nodules & Cysts
Deep acne lesions may be painful and carry a greater risk of scarring.
Oily Skin
Excess sebum production may contribute to blocked pores and recurrent breakouts.
Post-Acne Dark Marks
Discoloration may remain after an acne lesion heals.
Acne Scars
Severe acne may leave permanent scars on the skin.
When to Consult a Doctor
Consider seeing a dermatologist in Sharjah if:
Causes & Risk Factors
PRIMARY CAUSES
- Excess oil production.
- Blocked hair follicles.
- Inflammation.
- Hormonal changes.
- Increased androgen activity.
- Genetic predisposition.
- Certain medications.
- Friction or pressure on the skin.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and related hormonal imbalance
RISK FACTORS
- Adolescence and hormonal changes.
- Family history of acne.
- Hormonal fluctuations in adulthood.
- Oily or acne-prone skin.
- Certain cosmetic or hair products.
- Stress, which may worsen existing acne.
- Some medications.
- Picking or squeezing lesions, which may increase the risk of acne scars.
Diagnosis & Assessment
Dermatology Consultation
Review of breakouts, skin-care routine, medications, previous treatments, medical history, and possible hormonal factors.
Skin Examination
Assessment of the type, severity, distribution, and depth of acne lesions, as well as any dark marks or scars.
Evaluation of Contributing Factors
The dermatologist may consider hormonal changes, medications, skin products, family history, and other factors that may be contributing to persistent acne.
Additional Testing When Needed
Most acne is diagnosed clinically. Blood tests or hormonal assessment may be recommended when symptoms suggest an underlying hormonal or medical condition.
Treatment & Care Options
Topical Acne Treatments
Prescription creams or gels may help reduce blocked pores, inflammation, and bacterial growth depending on the type of acne.
Oral Medications
Moderate or severe acne may require oral antibiotics, hormonal treatment, or other prescription medicines under specialist supervision.
Acne Scar Treatment
Once active acne is controlled, treatment for acne scars may include laser therapy, chemical peels, microneedling, scar procedures, or combination treatment depending on the scar type and skin tone. Dermatologists often individualize scar treatment because depressed, raised, and pigmented scars respond differently.
Skin-Care & Prevention
A gentle skin-care routine, non-comedogenic products, avoiding picking or squeezing, and consistent use of prescribed treatments can help reduce future breakouts and scarring.
Acne treatment is individualized according to the type and severity of acne, skin type, previous response to treatment, and the presence of scarring.
UHS Approach
At University Hospital Sharjah, our Dermatology team provides personalized acne care supported by specialist assessment, medical treatment, advanced laser technology, and individualized management of active acne and acne scars.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What causes acne?
What are the different types of acne?
Whiteheads
Blackheads
Papules
Pustules
Nodules
Cysts
Nodules and cysts develop deeper in the skin and are more likely to cause pain and scarring.
What treatment options are available for acne?
Topical medications
Oral antibiotics
Hormonal therapy
Other prescription medication
Medical skin-care plans
Laser or procedural treatments for selected concerns
Treatment for acne scars after active breakouts are controlled
A dermatologist determines the most suitable plan after assessing the type and severity of acne.
How long does acne treatment take to show results?
The timeline varies according to acne severity, treatment type, adherence, and individual skin response. Treatment should be continued as directed even if improvement is gradual.
Can acne scars be treated?
Options may include laser resurfacing, microneedling, chemical peels, injections, scar procedures, or combined treatments. Active acne is usually brought under control before scar treatment begins.
Ready to take the next step?
Persistent, painful, or scarring acne should not be ignored. Book an appointment with the Dermatology team at University Hospital Sharjah for a personalized acne assessment and treatment plan.