Blackheads, whiteheads, pimples or lesions. Every acne symptom can make someone self-conscious. Every day, thousands of people are deciding to look and feel better and we want to help our patients reach that goal through acne treatment and education.
Acne Vulgaris
Acne, also known as acne vulgaris, typically occurs on the face, neck, shoulders, back or chest. It is caused when oil and dead skin cells clog up pores and can be mild (just a pimple or two) to severe. Severe acne is characterized by the presence of large, deep pimples called cystic lesions, or numerous pimples. Cystic lesions are more likely to cause acne scars and can be painful if they get inflamed. Careful acne treatment and prevention can minimize the need for acne scar treatments like microdermabrasion or SkinPen® microneedling later in life. Acne can run in the family, so parents who experienced severe acne should consider taking their teenagers to the dermatologist to keep their acne under control.
Acne Prevention
A skin care regimen change may be all that is needed to wipe out an acne problem. Most people know to wash their face two times a day, but switching skin care or beauty products may be the key to keeping breakouts under control. Some oil-based products can clog pores and make acne worse. Instead, use products that say “noncomedogenic” and are free from irritants such as fragrances. It may seem backwards, but skin that is too dry can be more likely to break out as well. Applying a noncomedogenic lotion after washing can be helpful too, especially in winter, when the air is dry and abrasive. Mild acne cases can be wiped out simply using the right cosmetic products with a boost from an over-the-counter acne wash. Look for a product that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Moderate, severe, or persistent acne will need treatment from a dermatologist.
Acne Treatment
Acne does not go away over night, but three months of home remedies with no results generally calls for help from a specialist. Multiple methods of acne treatment may be prescribed by a dermatologist including:
- Antibiotics (topical or oral)
- Retinoids
- Applying benzoyl peroxide
- Applying azelaic acid
- Draining particularly large or troublesome lesions
Even prescription acne treatments take time and acne will sometimes get worse before it gets better. Six to eight weeks is a common time frame for getting rid of moderate to severe acne, but everybody’s skin responds to treatment differently. Luckily the providers at all thirteen Dermatology & Skin Cancer Surgery Center locations are ready to find the best acne treatment for your skin. Contact any of our locations and our medical staff will work hard to get you looking your best.
