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Acne

The Art and Science of Beautiful Skin.

Acne

The Art and Science of Beautiful Skin.

GENERAL

WHAT IS ACNE?

Acne primarily affects adolescents but adults can also develop acne. The most common area of the body for acne to appear is the face but it may also appear on the upper arms, back, chest, neck, thighs, and buttocks.

Acne is caused by a mixture of oil that is produced naturally and dead skin which combined clogs pores and hair follicles.  This produces an ideal environment for bacteria growth. Bacteria may exacerbate whiteheads, pimples, and various acne symptoms.

Blackheads

Blackheads, otherwise known as comedonal acne, are caused by clogged pores. To unclog pores and to prevent blackheads, retinoids are usually prescribed. Retinoids are applied in small amounts at bedtime and are excellent at clearing blackheads.

Also see Acne entry above and our article: What Causes Acne?

For more information, visit the American Academy of Dermatology at www.aad.org/skin-conditions

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INFORMATION

ACNE CYSTS

Acne cysts are a severe form of acne where larger, pus-filled bumps appear. These cysts can last for months, cause scarring, and may be painful. Attempting to pop them can lead to a deeper infection and more inflammation.

Also see Acne entry above and our article: What Causes Acne?

For more information, visit the American Academy of Dermatology at www.aad.org/skin-conditions.

QUESTIONS

Acne FAQ

Depending on a person’s age, acne can be caused by a wide range of issues. In most cases, acne appears during teen years because of hormonal changes. However, it can also be caused by not cleansing the skin often enough.

The end result is that pores become clogged with excess sebum oil, which is natural oil that lubricates the skin. Whiteheads, pimples, and blackheads may form.

The appearance and symptoms of acne is different for everyone. Some individuals suffer from significantly more blemishes than others.

Severe blemishes are called papules, firm lesions, nodules, and pustules. In some cases, these blemishes occur only in localized areas or they may appear on the buttocks, upper arms, shoulders, neck, chest, back and face.

Acne is the most prevalent skin conditions. About 90% of teenagers will have some degree of acne. Acne occurs in 40% of individuals 25 and older.

Studies show that environmental factors also may play a role in the development of acne and it’s not always a direct cause of age.

Most acne is not preventable, but daily treatments can be very effective for controlling moderate pimples. Both laser and prescription treatments may also be effective against acne. Products such as medical grade cleansers, which can help to prevent the accumulation of acne causing bacteria. By cleansing daily, you may reduce the frequency of acne outbreaks.

An effective cleansing routine will also reduce infection and prevent scarring. Sudden onset of acne could be related to change in diet, environment, make-up, skin care products, or medication. If the trigger can be identified and avoided, then acne can be prevented. Acne triggers and options will be discussed during your appointment.

Most people will experience some degree of acne during their lifetime, but others are living with a chronic condition, which means they always have acne.

There are several treatments available for acne. Our experience board-certified dermatologists and certified PAs know how to effectively treat acne in both teens and adults. After a thorough exam, we will recommend a treatment that is best for you.

We offer many of the latest, most effective acne treatments available:

  • Acne extraction – Also known as acne surgery, is an effective procedure to remove blackheads and clogged pores.
  • Topical retinoids – These include Differin®, Retin-A®, and Tazorac® which prevent pores from getting clogged.
  • Benzoyl peroxide – Works to open up pores that have become clogged while also killing bacteria.
  • Topical antibiotics – These treatments will kill the bacteria responsible for causing acne or pimples.
  • Oral Antibiotics – Might be needed for deep cysts and acne. These include, Doxycycline, Minocycline and Bactrim™.
  • Oral Retinoids- Isotretinoin known as Accutane. These provide the ultimate care for acne and are important to treat recalcitrant scarring acne.
  • Oral Hormonal Acne Treatments– Include certain birth control pills and spironolactone.

The location and extent of acne are two major factors that will determine how much it will cost to treat it. Skin condition is also a factor. Our staff can help you find out if your health insurance will cover some or all of the cost.

Schedule a consultation so that we can examine and evaluate the condition of your skin. Once we have this information, we can recommend a specific treatment.

The staff and physicians at Dermatology Affiliates give our patients personalized care. We  offer our patients the latest, most effective technologies, which can help maintain optimal skin health. Our treatment options can restore the self-confidence  lost due to acne. To schedule a consultation, contact us today.

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Have questions or concerns? Please call us at 404.816.7900