Acne is a common skin condition that causes blemishes like whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples. In addition to negatively impacting the health and appearance of your skin, acne often causes self-consciousness and emotional distress. The highly qualified dermatologists at Elite Dermatology are extensively trained in the treatment of acne and have helped countless patients in the greater Houston area find relief from this skin condition and enjoy clearer, healthier skin.
What Is Acne?
Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged or blocked with dead skin cells and oil, causing bumps and blemishes to develop. While it is most prevalent among adolescents, acne can affect adults of many ages. Some individuals experience mild acne, while others may suffer from more severe forms that can be painful and leave lasting scars.
What Are the Different Types of Acne?
Acne blemishes can vary in appearance and severity. Our dermatologists are trained and experienced in treating all types of acne, including:
- Blackheads – Open clogged pores that appear as small black spots
- Whiteheads – Closed clogged pores that look like white bumps on the skin
- Papules – Small red bumps that are often tender or sore
- Pustules – Papules with pus at their tips, commonly known as pimples
- Nodules – Larger, painful lumps that develop under the skin
- Cystic lesions – Deep, painful lumps filled with pus that often lead to scarring
What Causes Acne?
Understanding the factors that contribute to the development of acne is essential for effectively managing and preventing acne. Common causes of acne include:
- Hormones, particularly during puberty, pregnancy, or menstrual cycles
- Excess oil production
- Bacteria on the skin
- Clogged hair follicles due to dead skin cells and oil
- Diets high in refined sugars and dairy
- Stress, which can trigger or worsen breakouts
- Medications that may affect hormone levels or increase oil production
- Physical pressure or irritation from helmets, backpacks, or tight clothing
Acne Treatments
At Elite Dermatology, we specialize in providing customized acne treatments that target both the causes and symptoms of acne, helping you achieve clearer skin and improved confidence. Our approach often involves a combination of therapies to address active breakouts, reduce inflammation, and minimize the risk of scarring.
For active acne breakouts and inflammation, we often recommend:
- Topical medications: These include topical retinoids, topical antibiotics, and other treatments that help to reduce oil production, unclog pores, and fight bacteria.
- Oral medications: Options such as birth control pills, spironolactone, antibiotics, and isotretinoin can help to regulate hormones, decrease inflammation, and control bacterial growth.
In-office procedures: Treatments like steroid injections can quickly reduce inflammation and swelling of painful cysts and nodules.
Treatments for Acne Scarring
Once your acne is under control, we can focus on reducing the appearance of acne scars with treatments such as:
- Customizable compounded prescription lightening cream: This cream helps to fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation caused by acne.
- Microneedling: A minimally invasive procedure that stimulates collagen production, promoting smoother and firmer skin.
- Radiofrequency microneedling: This advanced technique combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to further enhance skin tightening and texture improvement.
- Chemical peels: Peels help exfoliate the skin’s outer layers, reducing the appearance of scars and revealing fresher, smoother skin.
- TCA CROSS: This specialized technique uses trichloroacetic acid to treat deep acne scars, promoting collagen formation and skin regeneration.
Contact Us to Schedule a Consultation
If you’re ready to take action against acne and reclaim healthier, smoother, and clearer skin, contact Elite Dermatology today to schedule a consultation. We have practice locations in Fulshear, Kingwood, Vintage Park, Heights, River Oaks, and Pearland to serve patients throughout the greater Houston area.
Acne Treatment FAQs
Are acne treatments safe for sensitive skin?
Yes, under the care of our knowledgeable dermatologists, who personalize each patient’s treatment to their unique skin type, acne treatments are safe for patients with sensitive skin. Our dermatologists often recommend salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide in low concentrations, alongside complementary treatments that minimize irritation, for patients with sensitive skin.
Can my diet cause acne breakouts?
Research shows that diet may influence acne breakouts, with foods high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and dairy most likely to exacerbate acne symptoms. While diet alone isn’t the primary cause of acne, limiting these foods can reduce inflammation and improve skin health, complementing your acne treatment plan.
When should you see a dermatologist for acne treatment?
If over-the-counter acne products haven’t improved your skin after several weeks, or if your acne is severe and causing scars, it’s best to see a dermatologist. Professional acne treatments, including prescription medications and in-office procedures, offer faster and more effective solutions for stubborn acne.
