Acne is a very common skin condition that affects individuals of all skin types, and often leads to scarring and hyperpigmentation if not treated properly.
What Causes Acne?
When the dead skin collects on the surface of your face or body, hormones stimulate the production of sebum. This leads to the formation of white heads and black heads called comedone. What happens next? Acne bacteria eat at the sebum causing inflammation. Inflammatory papules can turn into cystic acne and pustular acne. The end result is
of acne is scarring, hyperpigmentation and damaged skin.
Many people think that acne can be the result of not cleaning or cleansing your skin enough. While oil, makeup, and dirt can contribute to acne, hormones and genetics play a bigger role in the etiology of acne.
Different Types of Acne
- Comedonal Acne
- Inflammatory Acne
- Hormonal Acne
- Nodulocystic Acne
For the above types of acne, topical medication may be recommended such as Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO) or topical retinoid. Prescription antibiotics may be prescribed if one has inflammatory acne. For more severe and prolonged acne, an oral medication may be needed in addition to a topical one.
Contact our practice to be seen by a board-certified dermatologist and treat your minor or severe acne symptoms.