Acne

Acne is a skin ailment that can manifest as pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, or nodules on the face, neck, chest, and back. It also is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting between 40-50 million people in the US, including men and women of all ages and ethnicities.

The Symptoms of Acne

When acne strikes, it can cause various unpleasant symptoms, including painful cysts and papules around the chin and jaw, scarring, and redness. Acne can also have an emotional impact. Researchers have found that people with acne also have higher rates of depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.

Treatment Options for People With Acne

Fortunately, having acne doesn’t mean you have to live with it forever. In fact, virtually anyone dealing with an acne outbreak can achieve clearer skin – it’s just a matter of finding the proper treatment. Here at Dermatology Associates, we use various methods to treat acne, including prescription-strength medications, laser therapy, chemical peels, and steroidal treatments. We treat acne in adolescents and adults and will work with you to find a treatment plan that helps you achieve the clear skin you’ve always wanted.

Caring for Acne

While treating acne is important, properly caring for acne-prone skin is a great way to stop the blemishes from returning. Here’s what we recommend:

Wash your skin twice a day, especially after sweating.

Use a gentle cleanser to wash your face twice daily, especially after sweating. Sweat clogs the pores and can worsen acne, so washing your face as soon as possible after a workout is important.

Apply cleanser gently.

It’s a common misconception that exfoliation must involve “roughing up” the skin. Instead, use the tips of your damp, clean fingers to apply a gentle cleanser in a circular motion.

Use only gentle products

Products that contain toners, exfoliants, and astringents can irritate the skin and make acne look worse.

Don’t pick your acne.

If you pick, pop, or squeeze acne blemishes, it makes them last longer and look more noticeable, and it also increases the risk of scarring.

Stay out of the sun.

UV light damages the skin and can make acne worse. With this in mind, wear skin-friendly SPF outdoors and avoid indoor tanning beds.

You don’t have to live with acne forever.
Make an appointment with our dermatologists today.

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