Acne Treatment
Acne Treatment Q&A
What causes acne?
Acne occurs when tiny hair follicles become plugged or clogged with oils naturally produced by the skin. Inside the follicle, bacteria feed on the oil plugs and begin to grow and multiply. As they grow, the body tries to fight them off and the reaction causes inflammation, redness, swelling and pus formation we recognize as pimples. In severe infections, hard cysts can form which can eventually cause scarring. Acne occurs most commonly on the face, chest, back, and shoulders where oil production is higher and hair follicles are more numerous. Although acne is more common during adolescence and throughout the teen and young adult years, it can occur in older adults as well. In addition to the physical symptoms, acne is a serious cause of stress, anxiety, and depression among people worldwide.
How is acne treated?
To reduce breakouts, acne requires ongoing treatment and proactive management, including regular doctor’s visits, use of prescription products and specialized home care routines aimed at reducing skin irritation that can stimulate overproduction of oils. Most patients achieve optimal benefits by using a combination of products, and the medications used can change over time as the patient’s needs, overall health, and skin characteristics change. The good news is, today there are many new “breakthrough” products and treatment regimens that are very effective in helping patients reduce breakouts and minimize the risk of scarring, including oral medications, topical preparations, and special home care products like face washes and “acne-friendly” moisturizers. Some patients may benefit from mild chemical peels or other techniques to help unclog pores to help control the growth of bacteria.
Can I do anything to help prevent breakouts?
The best thing a patient can do to help minimize acne breakouts is to visit a dermatologist on a regular basis to ensure their treatment plan remains optimized for their needs. Skin changes over time – sometimes fairly rapidly, especially during hormonal fluctuations associated with the teen and young adult years. Seeing the dermatologist regularly ensures products and routines remain effective so the benefits of treatment are maximized. Practicing proper home care of your skin, eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water and learning to manage stress are also important.
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