NiHowdy > Everyday Health Concerns > Acne

Browse Medications by Everyday Health Concerns: Acne

Written by Amar Lunagaria

Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder

Reviewed by James Wong

Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder

Updated Jan 27, 2025

•

Published Jan 15, 2025

Fact checked

What is Acne?

Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, or bacteria. It often appears as pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads, typically on the face, chest, back, or shoulders. While it's most common during adolescence, acne can affect people of all ages. Understanding acne helps you take steps to manage it and improve your skin health.

Symptoms of Acne

The symptoms of acne vary in severity and may include:

Blackheads (open clogged pores)
Whiteheads (closed clogged pores)
Pimples (red, inflamed bumps that may contain pus)
Cysts (painful, large, deep pimples under the skin)

Recognizing these symptoms can help you choose the right treatment to improve your skin.

What causes Acne?

Acne is caused by a combination of factors, including:

Excess oil (sebum) production
Dead skin cells clogging pores
Bacteria buildup in the hair follicles
Hormonal changes, especially during puberty, pregnancy, or menstruation

Understanding these causes can help you make informed decisions about treatment and prevention.

Risk factors for Acne

You may be more prone to acne if you:

Have a family history of acne
Experience hormonal changes or imbalances
Use greasy or heavy cosmetics and skincare products
Suffer from stress, which can trigger or worsen acne

Identifying these risk factors can help you adopt habits that reduce the likelihood of breakouts.

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How is Acne diagnosed?

A dermatologist or healthcare provider can diagnose acne by:

Examining your skin to identify the type and severity of acne
Asking about your skincare routine, diet, and stress levels
Assessing whether underlying conditions, like hormonal imbalances, may be contributing

Accurate diagnosis helps create a targeted treatment plan to clear your skin.

How is Acne treated?

Treatment for acne depends on its severity and may include:

Topical treatments: Over-the-counter or prescription creams with benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids.
Oral medications: Antibiotics, hormonal treatments, or isotretinoin for severe cases.
Lifestyle changes: Adopting a consistent skincare routine and reducing pore-clogging products.

A personalized approach can help control acne and prevent scarring.

Medications for Acne

Common acne medications include retinoids, antibiotics, or hormonal treatments like birth control pills. NiHowdy helps you save on these prescriptions while earning Bitcoin rebates, making acne treatment more affordable and rewarding.

Can Acne be prevented?

While not all acne can be prevented, you can reduce breakouts by:

Washing your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser
Avoiding touching or picking at your skin
Using non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) skincare and makeup products
Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated

These habits support clearer skin and healthier overall hygiene.

Managing Acne at home

To manage acne at home, try these tips:

Apply over-the-counter treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid
Use a warm compress to soothe painful pimples or cysts
Exfoliate gently to remove dead skin cells (no more than 1-2 times per week)
Keep your pillowcases and towels clean to reduce bacteria exposure

Consistent care can help reduce the severity and frequency of breakouts

When should you seek help for Acne?

Consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider if:

Your acne does not improve with over-the-counter treatments
You have severe acne, including cysts or nodules
Acne is causing emotional distress or affecting your self-esteem
Scarring is beginning to develop

Timely intervention can improve your skin and prevent long-term effects.

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How NiHowdy helps with Acne

NiHowdy supports patients with acne by offering savings on prescription treatments like retinoids, antibiotics, and hormonal therapies. Plus, you'll earn Bitcoin rebates, helping you invest in both your skin health and financial future.

Success stories with Acne

Meet Taylor, who struggled with persistent acne throughout their 20s. Through NiHowdy, Taylor saved on their prescription retinoid treatment and earned Bitcoin rebates. These savings allowed Taylor to stay consistent with treatment and regain confidence with clearer skin.

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*NiHowdy's prescription pricing is derived from various sources. While we strive to provide accurate estimates, the displayed price may not always match the pharmacy's charge. For precise pricing, please consult your pharmacy and present the BIN/GRP/PCN numbers from your NiHowdy coupon.