Acne

Though the exact cause of acne has not been determined, research shows that there are four contributing factors. Those are: excess oil, clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation. During adolescence, the body begins to develop more sebum oil, which is produced to ensure our skin does not dry out. When sebum cannot flow freely to the skin, clogged pores are the result. Bacteria already found on the skin’s surface flourishes in the excess oil which cause inflammation.

The degree of inflammation determines what type of acne appears on the skin. A small amount of inflammation results in a blackhead or whitehead, which is when oil flow is blocked right at the surface of the skin. This is the least serious form of acne. If the pore is blocked deeper within the skin, a pimple (papule) forms. If the pore becomes blocked even deeper, a pus-filled pimple (pustule) forms. The most severe type of acne lesions are cysts (nodules), which occur when very deep blockages cause intense inflammation and can be very painful.

Treatment

There are many treatment options available for reducing your acne. Talking to one of our many providers can be beneficial in finding the right treatment for you. Because every case is different, treatment effectiveness can depend on your skin’s reception. Fortunately, when acne is treated properly, it can restore confidence and positive self-image that can be impacted by individuals suffering with acne.

Some common options include:

• Cleaners: Cleansers containing glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or benzoyl peroxide may help reduce acne. These agents dry out the skin, remove debris, and unclog clogged pores. Some cleaners containing benzoyl peroxide will dry the skin, causing it to peel, which helps prevent the growth of bacteria.
• Topical Retinoids (Retin-A, Differin, Tazorac): Topical retinoids work by loosening the clogged pores. They are also helpful in removing superficially clogged pores that cause blackheads and whiteheads.
• Topical Antibiotics: Topical antibiotics are used to remove the skin bacteria that leads to papules and pustules. They may be used in combination with other agents.
• Oral Antibiotics: Oral antibiotics may be prescribed for more severe acne lesions but are not effective in treating papules, pustules, and cysts. They work to decrease inflammation and bacteria around the acne lesion.
• Isoretinoin (Accutane): Isoretinoin is an oral medication that is only used for the most extreme cases of acne. Isoretinoin reduces the size of the skin’s oil glands and the amount of oil the skin produces. The reduction in oil also leads to the reduction of bacteria living on the skin. Isoretinoin also slows down how fast the skin produces skin cells inside the pore, which can prevent them from becoming clogged. There are many severe side effects of isoretinoin such as depression and birth defects if taken while pregnant. These side effects are why it is important to consult with one of our skilled providers to understand all risks and decide whether isoretinion is right for you.

If scarring for acne occurs, some options such as laser therapy may help reduce the appearance of scarring. Talk to one of our skilled providers if you are interested in this type of treatment.

Research has provided the heredity, hormones, menstruation and emotional stress can trigger acne and make it worse. Although many of these factors cannot be avoided, it is recommended that patients do not wash or scrub the skin excessively, which can irritate the skin and make acne worse. Diet does not generally contribute to acne. However, if greasy foods are ingested often, oil from the food may transfer onto the skin, particularly around the mouth, and can cause acne to worsen.