What Is Acne?
Acne is a common skin condition involving inflammation of the hair follicle and oil gland unit. Increased oil production, clogged pores, growth of skin bacteria and the inflammatory process all play a role together, resulting in blackheads, whiteheads, red bumps and inflamed pimples.
Hormonal changes, hormonal conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome, genetic predisposition, certain medications, stress and pore-clogging cosmetics can influence the development of acne. When acne starts in adulthood or is persistent, it is important to look into these causes.
Acne is classified as mild, moderate or severe. In mild acne, blackheads and whiteheads are usually most noticeable, while severe acne involves deep, painful, inflamed lesions that are more likely to leave scars. Treatment is chosen according to this classification.
Who Is It Suitable For?
- People who have acne during adolescence or adulthood
- People with pimples around the chin and neck that are linked to the menstrual cycle
- People with noticeable blackheads and clogged pores
- People concerned about marks and scars after acne
- People who have not improved enough with the products they use
Acne on the back, chest and shoulders is evaluated with the same approach. When acne starts suddenly and is very widespread, the medications being used and hormonal status are also reviewed.
How Is Treatment Planned?
- The type and severity of acne are determined by examination; hormone and other tests are requested if needed.
- A cleansing and care routine suited to the skin type is set up.
- Topical medical treatments (for example retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid) and, when necessary, oral medication are considered.
- As supportive options, chemical peels, carbon peels or medical skin care sessions may be planned.
- In severe or widespread acne, patients are referred to a dermatologist for a possible need for systemic treatment.
What to Keep in Mind During Treatment
- Pimples should not be squeezed or picked, as this increases the risk of marks and scars.
- Oil-free, non-comedogenic products are preferable.
- Recommended treatments should be used regularly and not stopped too soon.
- Sunscreen should be used every day.
- Items that touch the skin, such as pillowcases, phones and makeup brushes, should be kept clean.
Possible Side Effects and Who Should Not Have It
At the start of topical treatments, dryness, redness, peeling and a temporary flare-up may occur. Mild sensitivity can follow peel procedures. Each oral medication has its own side effects and requires physician supervision.
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, many acne medications, retinoids in particular, are not used; safer options are chosen in this period. Some in-clinic procedures are postponed in the presence of active cold sores, open wounds or use of medications that cause light sensitivity.
If a temporary flare-up or irritation occurs during treatment, we recommend consulting your physician rather than stopping medications on your own; often a change in dose or frequency of use is enough.
Dr. Fulya Koç’s Approach
In acne treatment, Dr. Fulya Koç does not focus on the skin alone; she also considers lifestyle factors such as hormonal balance, diet, sleep and stress. The aim is not to suppress pimples temporarily, but to learn how to keep the skin balanced over the long term and prevent scarring.
Early and appropriate treatment helps reduce the risk of post-acne marks and pitted scars. For this reason, addressing acne without delay may also reduce the need for scar treatment later on.
Fulya Koç
Frequently asked questions
In adult acne, hormonal changes, polycystic ovary syndrome, stress, lack of sleep, certain medications and pore-clogging cosmetics may play a role. When pimples are concentrated around the chin and neck in particular, a hormonal evaluation is recommended.
The response to treatment usually becomes noticeable in 6–12 weeks. Because acne can come back, appropriate care and maintenance treatment may need to continue even after improvement is achieved.
Some studies suggest that high glycemic index foods, and dairy products in some people, may worsen acne. The effect varies from person to person, so dietary recommendations are made individually.
Suitable chemical peels may help reduce clogged pores and lighten post-acne marks. However, they are not enough on their own; they are planned together with medical treatment and appropriate care.
The information on this page is general. Whether the treatment suits you, its possible risks and the results you can expect are assessed individually at your consultation. Results vary from person to person. Image is illustrative.
