The skin pores become clogged and bacteria grow in the clogged pores. When the body works to kill the bacteria, whiteheads, blackheads, and pustules form in these areas. Some pimples may be painful. Your provider will look to see where you are having problems, for example, your face or back. Your provider will want to know how long you have had the problem and how you have been caring for your skin.
Treatment is aimed at keeping oil and dirt out of the pores and reducing inflammation.
You and your health care provider will talk about how you are currently taking care of your skin. You will discuss which products, such as soaps and lotions, you should or should not use. If you have been using prescription medications for your acne, bring the medicine names or containers to your appointment. Several products may be used to help prevent pimples or blackheads. Treatment usually begins with putting products containing benzoyl peroxide on the areas of skin with acne.