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Nearly everyone will have a degree of acne at some point in their life. For most people, acne is an occasional source of frustration, but for others, it can be an ongoing and consistent problem. In these cases, treatment from a qualified dermatologist like Dr. Damstetter is important.
What is Acne?
Acne vulgaris is a very common skin condition in which the skin follicles become clogged with dead skin cells (keratinocytes), excess oil, bacteria, and other debris. This results in whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and cysts. Just about everyone will face acne at some point in their lives, though the condition is most common among teenagers and can be persistent for some adult patients. In addition, severe acne can result in scars that may be raised, depressed, or pigmented. The most common areas for acne to appear include the face, chest and shoulders, or upper back.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you clear up acne?
How long does acne last?
What Causes Acne?
What does cystic acne look like?
What helps to clear acne?
Types of Acne
Some common types of acne are:
- Whiteheads—closed pores that appear white or light pink in color
- Blackheads—open pores that appear brown or black (because of keratin oxidation in the pore)
- Papules—small red bumps that are often sore or tender
- Pimples—papules that also have pus present
- Nodules—solid and tender or painful bumps below the skin’s surface
- Cystic acne—painful bumps below the skin, similar to nodules, that may become chronic. These are more common in moderate to severe acne
Common Acne Causes
Acne is caused by clogged pores as a result of excess oil production, dead skin cells, or debris. This results in bacteria production and the skin irritation and inflammation seen in a breakout. There are several lifestyle habits or medical conditions that can contribute to acne. In some cases, changing your everyday habits can help reduce your acne as you seek treatment from a dermatologist. Some common acne causes include:
- Hormonal changes or imbalances: Whether puberty or adulthood, hormonal changes or certain medical conditions can result in excess sebum production and inflammation, exacerbating acne.
- Stress: While it is not generally believed that stress is a root cause of acne, it can make existing acne worse.
- Side effects of medications: Certain medications, such as those containing corticosteroids, testosterone, or lithium, can cause acne. Certain topical acne medications can even cause increased breakouts at first.
- Poor diet: While no specific diet can be attributed to acne, many patients note a correlation between diets high in dairy or sugar and the worsening of acne.
- Improper skin care: Excessively harsh soaps or exfoliation can worsen acne.
- Lifestyle habits: Certain habits, such as friction on the skin from clothing or contact with oily products, can worsen acne.
- Genetics: There is a strong familial link in chronic acne and particularly acne scarring. Early consultation with a dermatologist like Dr. Damstetter is critical for young patients with a family history of acne.
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Acne Treatment Options
The primary goal of acne treatment is to control the breakouts and avoid or reduce scarring. Topical or oral medications are common for acne treatment, but several treatment options are available. The best option for you will vary depending on the type and cause of your acne. During your appointment, Dr. Damstetter will explain the best treatment plan for your unique needs.
Topical Medications
Dr. Damstetter may recommend a topical treatment option. Topical medications containing retinoids can help properly exfoliate the skin so dead cells don’t clog the hair follicles. However, topical retinoids can come with side effects, and Dr. Damstetter can help you manage them. Other topical products containing benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid can also help for the same reason. Some of these products may cause sensitivity or redness as a possible side effect but can be very beneficial for acne prone skin.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics can also be helpful in controlling acne by reducing the acne causing bacteria that result in irritation and inflammation. These antibiotics take the form of topical antibiotics or oral antibiotics. They’re typically reserved for moderate or severe acne.
Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy, such as spironolactone, can also be helpful for those suffering from acne. Hormonal contraceptives (birth control pills) can be especially effective treatment for women who have hormonal acne – a type of moderate acne that can occur with the monthly menstrual cycle.
Isotretinoin
In some cases, isotretinoin (a medical version of high-dose vitamin A, otherwise known as Accutane) is recommended for severe or scarring acne. Dr. Damstetter has extensive experience in safely treating patients, both adolescent and adult, with isotretinoin and will further discuss this option in great detail if acne is especially severe or failing other medical options.
Lifestyle Changes
For mild acne, changes to your skincare regimen may produce results. Dr. Damstetter can recommend a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and active ingredients to combat blackheads and whiteheads at home. She can also determine what changeable lifestyle factors might be contributing. For some patients, making simple lifestyle changes can be an effective acne treatment.
Skin Rejuvenation Treatments
Finally, treatments such as light therapy, chemical peels, or professional extraction can each help improve stubborn acne as well as reverse skin discoloration as a result of acne, rosacea, and acne scars. They can also reduce the frequency of breakouts by removing dead skin cells.
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Acne Treatment in Northfield, IL
To learn more about your acne treatment options, schedule an appointment with Dr. Liz Damstetter at Reserve Dermatology. Call our Glenview, IL office or contact us online.
