What is acne?
Acne is a skin condition that typically occurs when hair follicles become clogged or blocked with dead skin cells and oil. Acne usually shows up on the:
- Face
- Chest
- Shoulders and upper back
Acne is more prevalent among adolescents, but it can appear at any age and on many different body parts. Some people only experience mild acne that goes away, while others can experience acne that leaves scarring and causes emotional distress.
Acne that has a sudden onset in older adults can be an indicator of an underlying medical condition, such as a hormonal disorder or an autoimmune disease.
What are the different types of acne?
There are different types of acne, such as:
- Pustules – papules with pus
- Blackheads – open clogged pores
- Whiteheads – closed clogged pores
- Nodules – painful, solid lumps under your skin
- Papules – red, small bumps that are usually sore
- Cystic lesions – painful lumps under your skin that are filled with pus
Due to hormonal changes, many women experience flare-ups of acne in the week before menstruation.
What causes acne?
The main factors that play a role in the development of acne include:
- Aging
- Bacteria
- Certain foods
- Family history
- Chronic stress
- Certain medications
- Excess oil production
- Hair follicles clogged by dead skin cells and oil
- Excess friction, pressure, or irritation on the skin
- Hormonal complications, such as hormonal imbalance
In some instances, the follicle wall can produce a whitehead, and the plug can open and darken due to oil and bacteria that changes the color of the pore when exposed to air.
What are the treatments for acne?
The Elite Dermatology group provide a range of acne treatments to prevent damage to your skin and scarring, and to reduce inflammation. Your Elite specialist might recommend a number of treatments, including:
- Microneedling
- Chemical peels
- Medical-grade sunscreens and moisturizers
- In-office procedures, such as steroid injections to reduce inflammation
- Skinceuticals®, elta MD®, and Skinbetter Science® skin care products
- Oral medications, such as birth control pills, antibiotics, and isotretinoin
Your Elite dermatologist might combine multiple treatments to give you optimal results. Many prescription topical acne treatments can effectively kill bacteria or minimize oil.
You should also keep your skin clean by washing it twice daily and after working out. Use gentle, alcohol-free products and avoid picking at your skin.
For the highest caliber of skincare, visit Elite Dermatology. Click or call to schedule online.
Elite Dermatology has 4 convenient locations in Texas. We happily treat patients in Houston, Fulshear, Kingwood, Vintage Park, and the Heights.
