Acne is a common skin condition that causes blockage of skin pores by sebum, bacteria, or dead skin, leading to pimples formation. It mostly happens on your face, chest, shoulders, and upper back. Hormonal imbalance, stress, genetics, high humidity, and some skin care products can cause acne. It can happen at any age but mainly affects teenagers and can change your facial appearance leading to low self-esteem. It can appear as occasional pimples, inflammatory papules, or severe nodules and cysts. Acne treatment can improve your aesthetics Mt Kisco to achieve smooth and glowing skin.
Types
Blackheads: This form of acne presents as open bumps on your skin that fill with excess oil and dead skin. They appear as dirt clogged in the node. The dark spots arise due to irregular light reflection off the blocked follicle.
Whiteheads: The bumps in the whiteheads remain closed by oil and dead skin.
Papules: The bumps in papules are tiny red, or pink and can become inflamed.
Pustules: These are pimples filled with pus. They are similar to whiteheads but surrounded by red rings. If you pick or scratch them, they can lead to scarring.
Nodules: This type of acne forms solid pimples deep in your skin that are large and painful.
Cysts: This acne causes pus-filled pimples and can lead to scars.
Treatment
Topical medications
- Benzoyl peroxide: You can buy benzoyl peroxide over-the-counter as a leave-on gel or wash. It targets the bacteria on your skin that stimulates acne. You can experience irritation after use, but lowering the concentrations of benzoyl peroxide can help reduce irritation.
- Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid can be in the form of a cleanser or lotion. It removes the damaged top layer of your skin. Salicylic acid dissolves the dead skin cells, preventing clogging of your hair follicles.
- Azelaic acid: Azelaic acid is a natural acid extracted from grains such as barley and wheat. It helps to reduce swelling and kills microorganisms on your skin.
- Retinoid: Most patients qualify for this treatment. It breaks up blackheads and whiteheads and prevents clogging of pores. Ensure you apply all over the affected area to avoid the development of new pimples. You can have irritation, but you can reduce it by moisturizing your skin.
Oral medications
You can take antibiotics such as doxycycline and minocycline to improve your acne. Antibiotics mostly treat moderate to severe acne. Oral contraceptives can help to treat breakouts resulting from menstrual cycles. Isotretinoin, an oral retinoid, commonly treats severe cases of acne. It shrinks oil glands that contribute to acne formation.
Other treatments
Lasers: Currently, dermatologists mainly use lasers to treat acne scars. Lasers stimulate collagen production in your skin, encouraging new skin growth to replace the scarred one. There are different lasers, and your specialist will recommend the one that suits your skin type.
Chemical peels: This treatment involves using unique chemical solutions to remove the skin’s top layer. Removing the old skin will give way to new and smoother skin, lessening acne scars.
Acne is treatable, but you must also practice proper skin hygiene to achieve better results. Schedule an appointment at The Center for Dermatology Cosmetic & Laser Surgery for acne treatment to regain your confidence.
