Acne

What causes acne?

Acne occurs when pores or hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to the development of blackheads, whiteheads, papules, or pustules (pimples). 

These blemishes, which commonly appear on the face, neck, chest, back, or shoulders, can become deeply inflamed or turn into painful cysts when P. acnes, the bacteria that naturally exist on the surface of your skin, get inside an affected pore or follicle and multiply.  

Who gets acne?

Although acne is most common among teens and young adults, the skin problem can affect just about anyone, from newborn babies to older adults.  

Acne is actually becoming increasingly widespread among middle-aged adults. Chronic stress, hormonal fluctuations, and genetics seem to make women, in particular, more susceptible to blemishes and routine breakouts in their 30s, 40s, and even 50s.

Why is it important to treat acne? 

Chronic acne can seem like a never-ending cycle of breakouts — just as one breakout begins to clear up, a new one replaces it. While you may feel as though you have to allow each breakout to run its course, persistent acne can lead to skin discoloration and visible scarring when left untreated.

It’s essential to start a comprehensive acne treatment plan as early as possible to prevent serious or even irreversible skin damage. While chronic acne can’t be cured, it can be minimized and managed with the right approach.   

How is persistent acne treated?

Effective acne treatment protocols typically combine personalized skin care solutions with topical or oral medication, in-office treatments, and acne-friendly dietary recommendations. 

Benzoyl peroxide is a topical ointment that promotes rapid clearing by targeting the bacteria that causes acne. Alternatively, isotretinoin is an oral medication that treats severe acne by decreasing the oils in your skin that clog your pores and follicles. Inflammatory acne is often treated with an oral or topical antibiotic.   

On top of helping resolve persistent acne, a comprehensive acne treatment plan can help improve the tone and texture of your skin, brighten your complexion, and eliminate future breakouts. 

To find the right solution for your acne problem, call Integrated Dermatology of Brookline or book online today.

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