Acne vulgaris is a disorder that occurs primarily in young people, and is associated with overactive sebaceous glands. The condition is characterized by blackheads, papules, pimples, and pus, which appear most commonly on the skin of the face, back, and chest.

The treatment of acne depends on its clinical form and the severity of the lesions. The first line of treatment involves topical formulations (antibiotics, and exfoliating preparations, and derivatives of vitamin A). For serious acne, oral treatment is used, including antibiotics (usually tetracycline) and isotretinoin, a vitamin A derivative. Isotretinoin is currently the most effective drug for the treatment of acne, but a dermatologist needs to make the decision to use it. Generally, these are safe drugs, but during their use, blood tests should be periodically performed, and intense sports should be avoided. However, they can be very dangerous to the foetus, so women taking isotretinoin should use an oral contraceptive. The main side effects include dried, cracked lips, decreased lacrimation (decreased production of tears), increased sensitivity of the skin, and muscular aches. All these symptoms cease after treatment, and their severity can be reduced by lowering the dose.

Rosacea and seborrhoeic dermatitis are two other common skin diseases. They are characterized by red inflamed lesions, papules, and pimples mostly on the forehead, cheeks, nose, chin, and eyelids. They are accompanied by paroxysmal facial redness and seborrhoea. The effects occur most often after the age of 30, especially in women. For treatment, general and topical antibiotics are used, such as metronidazole; periodically, weak topical steroid preparations and antifungal preparations are employed. Facial skin care with specially selected cosmetics is also important. One particular form of lesion is the inflammation of the skin around the mouth.