People taking Accutane and similar drugs need close monitoring because of the potential side effects such as headaches , joint pains , muscle pains , and possible birth defects in infants of pregnant teenage mothers who are taking the medication. Antibiotics such as erythromycin and tetracycline are not as risky but may produce side effects such as nausea , diarrhea , or vaginal yeast infections . Permanent scarring may follow a severe case of acne. Men are more often affected on their shoulders and back than are women.
Cystic acne is a severe form of acne that can cause pitting and scarring.
There are several large cysts on the cheek and forehead, with many smaller pustules. Preventing new lesions and limiting the amount of scarring are the primary goals of treatment. Because of the deeper inflammation the tendency for scarring is increased. Acne lesions frequently contain pus. If the rosacea continues to the fourth stage, it is called rhinophyma.