Acne
What is acne?
Acne is a common chronic skin disorder that affects the hair follicle and sebaceous gland. When the oil gland gets clogged, bacteria build up and cause inflammation of the follicle resulting in a breakout.
Acne can affect any gender, race or ethnicity. It affects an estimated 85 percent of teenagers but can also affect young adults. In teenagers, acne is more prevalent in males. In young adults, acne is more prevalent in females. Some individuals experience breakouts in cycles, and some individuals have persistent acne.
What causes acne?
Acne can be caused by many factors, including:Â
- Hormonal Changes:Â Hormonal changes are the main cause of acne in teenagers. The sebaceous glands become enlarged, which increases sebum production. During this time, the sebaceous glands are sensitive to hormones. Some women may experience acne due to their menstrual period or other hormone-related abnormalities, such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
- External Factors:Â
- Skin and hair products. Makeup and hair products containing oil may aggravate acne. When selecting hair or skin products, it’s essential to look for products that are “noncomedogenic” (pore blocking). These products are less likely to worsen acne.
- Diet rich in dairy and high sugar.
- Friction touching your face with your hands or utilizing workout or sporting equipment.
- Drugs such as prescription steroids or over the counter anabolic steroids.
- Stress:Â Studies have shown a correlation between increased stress and acne. For example, students may experience more severe acne during exams. It’s important to let your dermatologist know about the events and issues causing you stress. This will help to establish a pattern and an appropriate course of treatment.
- Family History:Â Those who have close family members with acne are at an increased risk or suffering from the condition. Studies have indicated that patients who have immediate family members affected by acne are three times more likely to develop acne themselves.
What are the characteristics of acne?
Acne is most often found on the face; however, it can also be on the neck, chest and back.Â
Characteristics of acne include:Â
- Blackheads and whiteheads
- Inflamed papules and pustules
- In severe acne, nodules and cysts
- Skin discoloration and scars
The number and type of lesions will help your dermatologist classify your acne as mild, moderate or severe, as well as determine the best course of treatment.
Often, tests are not needed to diagnose acne. However, your dermatologist might perform a skin culture as there are some skin conditions that mimic acne. Moreover, sometimes lab tests are ordered in certain females when there is suspicion of hormonal factors as the cause of acne.
What is the treatment for acne?
There are various medical treatments based on the type and severity of acne you have.Â
Mild Acne (Less than 30 lesions)
- Topical medications: Benzoyl Peroxide, Retinoid Pads 2.5x, 5x
- A skin (Keratolytic) cleanser that contains salicylic acid, and glycolic
- Photodynamic Light Therapy and Laser TreatmentÂ
Moderate Acne (Thirty to 125 lesions)Â
- Topical medications: Benzoyl Peroxide, Retinoid Pads 2.5x, 5x plus a short term oral antibiotic prescribed by your dermatologist
- Anti hormonal medications or low-dose oral contraceptives, particularly for women with hormonal acne or polycystic ovarian syndrome
- Isotretinoin is often used if acne is persistent or treatment-resistant
Severe Acne (More than 125 lesions)
- Oral antibiotics are often used in higher doses than normal
- Oral isotretinoin is usually recommended in suitable patients
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At the Dermatology Center for Skin Health, PLLC, we offer two Acne Skin Care Systems levels:
Acne System Level I (Mild Acne)
- Gly/Sal 2-2 Cleanser: Our product is a specially formulated oily skin cleanser that delivers ultra-pure glycolic acid and salicylic acid USP, 2 percent for gently cleansing acne-prone and oily skin.Â
- Retinol Soothing Pads: Our retinol treatment pads are the ideal therapeutic retinol treatment for acne/problem skin patients and those desiring the convenience of a pad application.Â
- Gly/Sal 5-2 Pads: Salicylic acid USP and glycolic acid are used in combination with hydrating ingredients in these easy-to-use pads to promote exfoliation, control oil, reduce breakouts and clogged pores.
- Benzoyl Peroxide 5 Percent Gel: Our gel is the perfect spot treatment utilizing the antibacterial properties of benzoyl peroxide USP, 5 percent.
*Acne System Level II should be used for mild to moderate acne and is best used after Acne Level I to maintain compliance due to dryness during treatment.
- Gly/Sal 2-2 Cleanser: Our specially formulated oily skin cleanser delivers ultra-pure glycolic acid and salicylic acid USP, 2 percent for gently cleansing acne-prone and oily skin.Â
- Gly/Sal 10-2 Pads: Salicylic acid USP and glycolic acid are used in combination with hydrating ingredients in these easy-to-use pads to promote exfoliation, control oil, reduce breakouts and clogged pores.Â
- Retinol Soothing Pads: Our retinol treatment pads are the ideal therapeutic retinol treatment for acne/problem skin patients and those desiring the convenience of a pad application.
- Benzoyl Peroxide 10 Percent Gel: Our gel is the perfect spot treatment utilizing the antibacterial properties of benzoyl peroxide USP, 10 percent.
What should be the expectations for acne treatment?
Acne can be treated and tends to improve in our mid 20’s.Â
Most topical medications take at least two months to show results. Most patients have difficulty complying with topical medication because they can cause dryness and flares when they are started. However, the good news is that if the topical medication is used effectively, long-term results will be seen and the regimen can be continued.
How can my dermatologist help?
Patients often experience embarrassment and anxiety as a result of their acne. The psychological effects can impact social lives and in extreme cases, even employment. Treatment of acne usually leads to a significant improvement in self-esteem.
Our staff is dedicated to keeping up-to-date with the most advanced procedures and patient education. If you are experiencing acne and you would like a consultation, please contact us.
Dermatology Center for Skin Health, PLLC
600 Suncrest Towne Centre, Suite 115
Morgantown, WV 26505
Our office is located on the ground floor of the 600 Suncrest Towne Centre Building. Please enter through the middle doors at the front of the building. The Dermatology Center for Skin Health, PLLC entrance is located just inside the building — first door on the right.Â
