Acne
Should you pop it or not? - How to properly treat acne.
Acne is a dermatological condition.
Acne is a condition characterized by clogged pores and inflammation, and it's common not only in adolescents but also in adults (especially women in the jawline area).
- Squeezing pimples with your hands can deepen the inflammation and leave scars and discoloration. If extraction is necessary, see a dermatologist.
- Topical medications (such as retinoids and benzoyl peroxide) are the foundation of treatment, and consistency for 4-8 weeks is needed to see results.
- For moderate to severe cases, oral antibiotics may be used, and for severe nodular acne, isotretinoin may be prescribed.
Source: 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 · as of 2026-08-13
If you have been prescribed isotretinoin (Roaccutane),
This medication is very effective for severe acne, but there are important things to keep in mind.
- Absolutely do not take this medication during pregnancy (can cause birth defects). Women of childbearing age must use contraception both during and after taking the medication for a certain period.
- Dryness of the lips and skin is almost universal, so be sure to have lip balm and moisturizers on hand.
- Do not donate blood while taking this medication, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption (check liver enzyme levels).
- Acne scars are often more difficult to deal with than the acne itself. It's better to start treatment early to prevent scarring.
Frequently asked questions
Is it because of chocolate or greasy foods?
The relationship with specific foods varies from person to person, but there are studies suggesting that a high-sugar diet and certain dairy products may be associated with worsening symptoms. However, diet alone cannot replace medical treatment.
Would things get better if I just change my cosmetics?
Products labeled as "non-comedogenic" and gentle cleansing (twice a day) can be helpful, but inflammatory acne that has already developed requires medication. Excessive exfoliation or scrubbing can actually worsen the condition.
Sources for this page
· 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 (as of 2026-08-13)Last checked: 2026년 8월 13일
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