Acne Intro
Acne can leave your skin inflamed, bumpy, red and scarred. Reference the tips below to learn ways to help relieve irritated skin.
Skin conditions can range from severe diaper rash in infancy, acne during the teenage years, to psoriasis as you age. Other common conditions include skin allergies, eczema, and more.
Why treat acne?
Acne appears when a pore in our skin clogs. This clog begins with dead skin cells. Normally, dead skin cells rise to the surface of the pore, and the body sheds the cells. When the body starts to make lots of sebum (see-bum), oil that keeps our skin from drying out, the dead skin cells can stick together inside the pore. Instead of rising to the surface, the cells become trapped inside the pore. Occasionally, natural bacteria on our skin can cause acne to become “infected” which can be painful. Myths about acne are as common as the skin problem. One common myth is that you have to let acne run its course. Dermatologists know that letting acne runs its course is not always the best advice.
01.
Without treatment, dark spots and permanent scars can appear on the skin as acne clears.
02.
Treating acne often boosts a person’s self-esteem.
03.
Many effective treatments are available.
Helpful Information
You can reduce your acne by following these skin care tips from dermatologists. For more information visit: AAD Acne Resources (the source of the shared information).
01.
Wash twice a day and after sweating. Perspiration, especially when wearing a hat or helmet, can make acne worse, so wash your skin as soon as possible after sweating.
02.
Use your fingertips to apply a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser. Using a washcloth, mesh sponge or anything else can irritate the skin.
03.
Be gentle with your skin. Use gentle products, such as those that are alcohol-free. Do not use products that irritate your skin, which may include astringents, toners and exfoliants. Dry, red skin makes acne appear worse.
04.
Scrubbing your skin can make acne worse. Avoid the temptation to scrub your skin.
Consult a Dermatologist If…
01.
Your acne makes your shy or embarrassed.
02.
The products you’ve tried have not worked.
03.
Your acne is leaving scars or darkening your skin.
Treatment Types
If you have a lot of acne, cysts, or nodules, a medicine that you can buy without a prescription may not work. If you want to see clearer skin, you should see a dermatologist. Dermatologists offer the following types of treatment:
Acne treatment that you apply to the skin:
Most acne treatments are applied to the skin. Your dermatologist may call this topical treatment. There are many topical acne treatments. Some topicals help kill the bacteria. Others work on reducing the oil. The topical medicine may contain a retinoid, prescription-strength benzoyl peroxide, antibiotic, or even salicylic acid. Your dermatologist will determine what you need.
Acne treatment that works throughout the body:
Medicine that works throughout the body may be necessary when you have red, swollen types of acne. This type of treatment is usually necessary to treat acne cysts and nodules. Your dermatologist may prescribe one or more of these:
01.
Antibiotics (helps to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation).
02.
Oral contraceptives and other medicine that works on hormones (can be helpful for women).
03.
Isotretinoin (the only treatment that works on all that causes acne).
Book an Appointment
Schedule your appointment with any of our healthcare providers at a location most convenient to you.