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What is acne?
Acne is a common skin condition that causes pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. It usually appears on your face, chest, back, and shoulders. While it is more common in teens, it can also affect adults.
If you’re living with acne, Hola Health offers online consultations with AHPRA-registered doctors in Australia. A doctor can discuss your skin concerns and advise on suitable next steps, where clinically appropriate.
Quick facts about acne
- Acne affects approximately 93.3% of Australian teenagers aged 16–18 years [1].
- Acne can persist into adulthood, affecting approximately 64% of people aged 20–29 years and 43% of people aged 30–39 years [1].
- Australian GPs see acne at a rate of approximately 0.4 per 100 consultations [1].
- Acne can cause blackheads, whiteheads, pimples and inflamed spots.
Disclaimer: This content is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns. In an emergency, call 000.
This content is medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC. Last updated: 12 Nov 2026.
Types of acne
Blackheads (Open comedones)
Small dark spots that form when pores become blocked with oil and dead skin cells.
Whiteheads (Closed comedones)
Small white or skin-coloured bumps caused by blocked pores that remain closed at the skin's surface.
Papules
Small, red, inflamed bumps that usually do not contain visible pus.
Pustules
Inflamed pimples with a visible white or yellow pus-filled centre.
Nodules
Large, painful lumps that develop deep within the skin and may cause scarring.
Cystic acne
Deep, painful, inflamed lesions that may feel soft or fluid-filled and can lead to permanent scarring.
Symptoms of acne
Causes of acne
Oil and dead skin cells: These build up and block your pores, causing pimples.
Bacteria: Bacteria can grow in blocked pores, leading to redness and swelling.
Hormones: Changes in your hormones, especially during puberty, can make your skin produce more oil.
Stress: Stress may worsen acne or contribute to breakouts in some people.
Family history: Acne can run in families, so your genes can play a role.
Some medicines: Certain medicines can cause acne or worsen breakouts.
Management options for acne
| Management option | How it may help |
|---|---|
| Gentle skin cleansing | Wash the skin gently to remove excess oil, sweat and dirt without causing irritation. |
| Non-comedogenic skincare | Choose skincare products that are less likely to block pores. |
| Avoid picking or squeezing spots | Helps reduce skin irritation and the risk of scarring. |
| Remove makeup before bed | Helps prevent makeup and residue from building up on the skin. |
| Maintain a consistent skincare routine | Gentle cleansing, moisturising and daily sun protection may help support skin health. |
| Manage stress | Managing stress through adequate sleep, relaxation and regular physical activity may support general wellbeing. |
| Seek medical advice | A doctor can assess acne severity and discuss suitable management options. |
| Dermatologist referral | Severe, persistent or scarring acne may require assessment by a dermatologist, depending on clinical advice. |
This information is for educational purposes only. If you’re unsure what’s right for your skin, speak to a doctor. Call 000 in emergencies.
How Hola Health may help
- Discuss your symptoms: Explain where your acne appears, how long you have had it and whether you experience redness, swelling, pain or scarring.
- Receive medical advice: A doctor can discuss your skin concerns and advise whether further assessment or suitable management options may be appropriate.
- Understand your next steps: If your acne is severe, painful or causing scarring, the doctor can advise whether further assessment or in-person care may be appropriate.
- Discuss treatment options: Depending on your symptoms and medical history, the doctor can discuss suitable options and whether a prescription may be clinically appropriate.
Note: An online consultation may not be suitable if your acne requires a physical examination or specialist assessment. If you are unsure whether your symptoms require emergency care, call 000 — it is always safer to seek immediate help than to delay.
Frequently asked questions
Can I talk to a doctor online about acne?
Yes. Many cases of mild to moderate acne can be assessed through telehealth.
Your doctor will ask about your skin, your routine and anything you’ve tried. They’ll then discuss suitable options, which may include treatment if clinically appropriate. Prescriptions are never guaranteed. Severe, scarring or rapidly worsening acne may need in-person or dermatologist care.
What can an online doctor do for my acne?
- Evaluating acne symptoms and severity
- Discussing skincare and lifestyle aspects
- Discussing acne management options
- Discussing suitable options
- Referring you to a dermatologist if required
- Providing follow-up and monitoring
What types of acne can be managed online via Hola Health?
Telehealth may help manage:
- Mild acne
- Moderate acne
- Blackheads and whiteheads
- Occasional breakouts
- Acne follow-up reviews
Severe cystic acne, acne scarring, or rapidly worsening skin symptoms may require in-person assessment or dermatologist care.
When should I see a dermatologist instead of a GP for acne?
You may benefit from a dermatologist assessment if you have:
- Severe or painful cystic acne
- Acne causing scarring
- Acne is not improving with current medications
- Significant skin inflammation
- Uncertain skin diagnosis
Some skin disorders may require a physical examination to ensure an accurate diagnosis and management planning.
Can I get a referral to a dermatologist through telehealth?
Yes. After assessing your condition, A Hola doctor can refer you to a dermatologist, if clinically appropriate.
Sources & references
- RACGP – Dermatology check: Acne and common skin conditions
- Healthdirect – Acne
- Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne – Acne and teen skin health
- Australasian College of Dermatologists – Acne vulgaris
- Australian Prescriber – Acne vulgaris: A clinical update
- Victorian Department of Health – Assessment of acne management
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