What Is Acne?
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the U.S., affecting nearly 60 million people each year. It can range from mild breakouts to severe cases that cause acne scars. The types of acne include comedonal (whiteheads, blackheads), inflammatory (pimples, pustules), hormonal, cystic, and even fungal acne. These blemishes often come with red, inflamed patches of skin. Acne is caused by clogged pores due to the buildup of natural oils, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Hormonal factors also play a role. Though acne is most common in teenagers, it can affect adults. It usually appears on the face, chest, and back. At Palm Beach Dermatology, we offer a range of acne treatments, from at-home skin care products (shop Anovo Skin) to advanced procedures, like chemical peels, red light therapy, and intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments. We also offer laser treatments and radiofrequency with microneedling to treat acne scars. Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about our treatments.
How Is Acne Treated?
Over-the-counter products are often not enough to treat severe acne. We provide various acne treatments to help control and reduce breakouts. Topical treatments with retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and anti-inflammatories are commonly prescribed for mild to moderate acne. If hormonal factors are causing breakouts, hormonal blockers (like spironolactone) may be used. For more severe cases, stronger options (like isotretinoin/Accutane) are available. Advanced treatments, such as blue light and red light therapy, target deeper layers of the skin to reduce inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria. Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy can also be used to heal the skin. Chemical peels, which contain exfoliating agents like glycolic acid, help unclog clogged pores and reduce the risk of acne scarring. For quick relief, acne spot treatment can be effective in targeting individual blemishes.
What Are the Symptoms of Active Acne?
Acne can present itself in a variety of ways, depending on the type and severity of the condition. Recognizing the different symptoms is essential for identifying the best treatment options. Active acne is typically characterized by the following blemishes and can also leave a lasting impact on your skin:
- Whiteheads (closed clogged pores)
- Blackheads (open clogged pores)
- Papules (small red, tender bumps)
- Pustules (pimples containing pus)
- Cysts (large, painful lumps beneath the skin)
- Nodules (hard, solid lumps beneath the surface)
- Redness and inflammation
- Dark spots or hyperpigmentation after breakouts
- Acne scarring from deep or untreated lesions
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What Causes Acne?
There are several causes of acne. Hormonal changes, especially during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, often lead to an increase in oil production and clogged pores. Hormonal factors can also be influenced by birth control pills or medications that increase the risk of breakouts. Other triggers of acne include stress, diet, and a buildup of natural oils on the surface of the skin. Once the causes of acne are identified, specific acne treatments can be recommended to help manage the condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cause of acne in adults?
Although acne is commonly regarded as a condition for teenagers, numerous adults still might deal with the hormone fluctuations that produce breakouts. Other aspects that can lead to adult acne are some medications (steroid drugs, anticonvulsants) and family history. For women, the hormone fluctuations caused during pregnancy, menopause, and the menstrual cycle may also produce acne flare-ups.
Do I have to stop wearing makeup if I have acne?
Depending on the well-being of your skin, certain makeup types might lead to or aggravate acne. If you believe this is the case, you could try items labeled as "non-comedogenic," indicating that they are specifically designed with elements less likely to block your facial pores.
What can I do to help prevent acne?
You provider at Palm Beach Dermatology will work with you to identify the best method of treatment to improve your acne, but here are a few effective suggestions that might work for you:
- Put diluted tea tree oil on your face
- Consistently clean your face with a mild cleanser
- Avoid extreme sunlight exposure
- Drink no less than eight cups of water a day
- Consume in a well-balanced diet that is low in sugar
- Limit the use of makeup
- Cut back on stress with massage, light exercise, or yoga
- Do not rub your face
- Refrain from touching blemishes
Restore Clear, Healthy Skin
Acne can affect both your appearance and confidence, but it doesn't have to be a permanent issue. At Palm Beach Dermatology, we offer a variety of proven acne treatments tailored to your unique skin type. Whether you're dealing with hormonal factors, clogged pores, or acne scars, our team can help you find the right treatment. Reach out today to explore your options, and start getting rid of acne for good.