Acne: sandpaper acne

LAST UPDATED: Nov 21, 2021

Introduction

Sandpaper acne is defined by the presence of many small, undeveloped lesions (microcomedones) on the skin that are nearly invisible but feel rough to the touch.

This chapter is set out as follows:

Clinical findings
Images
Management

Clinical findings

Multiple small whiteheads (closed comedones), associated with superficial inflammation
The skin is rough to feel - like fine sandpaper

Clinical Images

Please refer to notes on image rights at bottom of the page with regards to individual image ownership.

Management

Treatment should be targeted at comedones - refer to the acne section of the concise guidelines

Poor responders often do well with a low dose of isotretinoin (0.5 mg/kg/day) for four months

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