Acne

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne is the most common skin condition in the United States. Over 50 million people have acne at least once in their lifetime. It is not only teenagers who suffer from unsightly pimples, blemishes, breakouts, and red, irritated skin, but also a growing number of adult women well into their 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.

Uncontrolled acne can leave dark marks and permanent scars. If acne is treated early, before cysts and nodules develop, these scars can be prevented.

What Causes Acne?

Acne begins with dead skin cells. Normally, these cells are shed as they rise to the surface of the pore. However, when the body starts to make lots of sebum (oil) the dead skin cells can stick together inside the pore where they become trapped, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. The bacterial infection leads to inflammation, giving acne its red appearance. If the inflammation goes deep into the skin, an acne cyst or nodule appears.

How Is Acne Diagnosed?

SkinSmart Dermatology providers can tell by examining your skin if you suffer from acne or from another skin condition, such as rosacea, that can be confused with it.

How Is Acne Treated?

There are many effective treatments for acne but not all of them will work for every particular case. Depending on how severe the acne is, we may recommend a regimen of over-the-counter products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, prescription-strength topical medications, or systemic drugs including antibiotics (to kill bacteria and fight inflammation), birth control pills (useful for female patients whose hormones are contributing to their acne), and isoretinoin (reserved for acne that does not respond to other treatments). Our practitioners might also recommend procedures such as chemical peels or eMatrix Sublative Rejuvenation.

Can anything be done about acne scarring?

There are several different treatments at SkinSmart addressing acne scarring.

•    Chemical peels
•    Fractional resurfacing, particularly eMatrix Sublative Rejuvenation

Simply ask one of our SkinSmart team members at your next appointment.

Click here to read more about acne scars and their treatment.