Acne in Men: What Is Different, Why It Can Be More Severe and How to Prevent Scarring

Acne affects both men and women, but it doesn't always behave in the same way. In men, acne is often more inflammatory, more widespread and carries a greater risk of permanent scarring.

Despite this, many men delay seeking advice, assuming acne is simply something to "grow out of" or that it isn't serious enough to warrant medical attention.

The reality is that acne in men deserves early assessment, particularly when deeper spots or scarring are beginning to develop.

Is acne different in men?

Yes.

While the underlying process behind acne is the same, men's skin is influenced by higher levels of androgens, the hormones that stimulate the skin's oil glands.

This can lead to:

• Increased oil production.
• More inflamed breakouts.
• Larger, deeper spots.
• A greater likelihood of acne affecting the body.

As a result, men are more likely to experience severe inflammatory acne than women.

Where does acne commonly appear in men?

Men frequently develop acne on both the face and body.

Common areas include:

• Face.
• Jawline.
• Chest.
• Upper back.
• Shoulders.

Truncal acne affecting the back and chest is particularly common in men and can often be more severe than facial acne.

Why is scarring a greater concern?

One of the biggest reasons to seek early assessment is the increased risk of permanent acne scarring.

Men are more likely to develop:

• Nodular acne.
• Cystic acne.
• Deep inflammatory acne.

These forms of acne penetrate deeper into the skin, increasing the likelihood of lasting scars.

The opportunity to prevent scarring exists while acne is active, not after scars have already formed.

Early intervention is therefore one of the most important steps in protecting long-term skin health.

Why do many men leave acne untreated?

There are many reasons.

Some men believe acne is simply cosmetic or something they should tolerate.

Others assume they are too old for acne or expect it to disappear naturally.

Unfortunately, delaying assessment allows inflammation to continue and increases the risk of permanent scarring.

Acne can also have a significant impact on confidence, mental wellbeing and social interactions, regardless of gender.

Seeking advice is a practical step towards protecting both your skin and your wellbeing.

Can men's acne be treated?

Yes.

Men's acne often responds well to a structured treatment plan that takes into account the severity of inflammation, the areas affected and the risk of scarring.

The goal is not simply to reduce today's breakouts but to prevent future acne and minimise long-term skin damage.

When should I seek assessment?

It is worth seeking professional assessment if:

• Your acne is painful or deep.
• Breakouts are affecting your chest or back.
• You are noticing early scars.
• Acne is affecting your confidence.
• Over-the-counter products are not improving your skin.

The sooner inflammatory acne is assessed, the greater the opportunity to prevent permanent scarring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is men's acne worse than women's?

It can be. Men are more likely to develop deeper inflammatory acne and truncal acne, both of which carry a higher risk of scarring.

Why are men more likely to scar?

Men more commonly develop nodular and cystic acne. These deeper forms of acne damage the skin more extensively and therefore increase the likelihood of permanent scars.

Should I just wait for my acne to clear?

Waiting can allow acne to worsen and increases the risk of permanent scarring. Early assessment offers the best opportunity to protect your skin.

Is body acne more common in men?

Yes. Acne affecting the back, chest and shoulders is particularly common in men because these areas contain many oil glands.

Can acne affect confidence in men?

Absolutely. Acne can affect self-confidence, relationships and emotional wellbeing at any age, and seeking assessment is never an overreaction.

Reviewed by Dr Tara Treacy, GP with a special interest in dermatology (IMC 411337).

Last reviewed: 16/07/2026.

General information only. It does not replace an individual medical assessment.