Acne is a very common skin condition that affects people of all ages and skin types. Contrary to popular belief, acne is not usually caused by poor hygiene or eating certain foods. It’s also not a skin problem that you must suffer through, with the expectation that it will simply “run its course.”
Acne is treatable through a variety of procedures and medications. If you’re suffering from acne, Dr. Michalak or one of his physician assistance’s or nurse practitioner can recommend a variety of treatment options.
Acne Treatment Options
Options to treat acne vary by individual. Once evaluated, a treatment plan will be given to you that may include topical medications, oral medications or both. For some patients minor adjustments in habits along with recommended skincare can make a difference. Advancements in treatment options make it possible for patients to have better treatment outcomes more than ever.
The best acne treatment plan is chosen based on factors such as the acne type, severity, skin type and area(s) affected.
Popular acne treatment options include:
- Oral medications
- Topical medications
- Specific skincare regiments that compliment oral and topical treatment plans.
- Acne surgery
- Laser Dynamic Therapy
Once your acne breakouts are resolved, additional acne scar and hyperpigmentation treatments may be performed to further improve the appearance of your skin. This may include laser treatments such as Fraxel Laser.
What are the Different Types of Acne?
Based on characteristics, acne is divided into the following types:
- Comedones
- Pustules
- Papules
- Cysts or nodules
Comedones are either open (blackheads) or closed (whiteheads). Blackheads appear when oil, bacteria or dead skin cells partially block a hair follicle. They often take longer to clear. Blackheads appear black in color, not because of dirt, but because skin cell pigment reacts when exposed to oxygen. Whiteheads appear when the pores are blocked completely. They usually clear away faster than blackheads and exhibit a white surface.
Pustules (pimples or zits) are inflamed lesions that appear due to clogged pores. Papules are also inflamed, red and tender but do not exhibit a head.
Cystic acne (acne nodules) is associated with more severe acne and results in large, painful bumps beneath the skin’s surface. Nodules are known to cause acne scarring.
What Causes Acne?
Acne occurs when pores and hair follicles become clogged with excess oil, dead skin cells or bacteria. If you have naturally oily skin, you may be predisposed to acne. For others, greater exposure to bacteria is the cause of their acne.
Hormones also affect the skin and may also lead to acne development. Thus, the onset of puberty, pregnancy, menstruation and hormonal birth control methods may trigger an acne breakout.
When to Schedule Your Acne Treatment
Anytime you’ve become frustrated with your skin from unresolved breakouts, it’s time to schedule an appointment. While over the counter acne medications can be helpful, for many it’s not enough to get your skin under control. Medications for acne continue to improve offering a variety of solutions you just can’t get on your own. We see patients of all ages and take most insurance plans.