Overview of the evaluation and management of acne vulgaris

Acne vulgaris is a disease of the pilosebaceous unit where abnormally adherent keratinocytes cause plugging of the follicular duct followed by accumulation of sebum, keratinous debris, and bacteria within this structure. It remains one of the most common inflammatory dermatoses among adolescents and is frequently seen in newborns in both pediatric and dermatology practices. This article summarizes the key factors involved in the pathogenesis of acne, reviews the clinical evaluation process, and clarifies the rationale for the selection of specific therapies. The psychosocial impact of acne is also addressed, including its impact on quality of life. The overarching goal is to prescribe effective therapy early to avoid both clinical and psychologic scarring along with ensuring adequate patient education for optimizing treatment outcomes.