Acne is a (frustrating!) skin condition that can cause: blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and cysts. In some cases, it can even lead to permanent scarring.
WHAT CAUSES ACNE?
Acne develops when sebum, an oily substance that lubricates your hair and skin, and dead skin cells clog hair follicles. Bacteria can trigger inflammation and infection resulting in more severe acne.
There are certain things that may trigger or exacerbate acne:
- Certain medications. Examples include corticosteroids, testosterone, and lithium.
- Diet. Studies indicate that consuming certain foods may worsen acne. These foods include simple carbohydrate-rich food such as white bread. Further study is needed to evaluate the effects of diet on acne.
- Stress. Stress can worsen acne breakouts.
ACNE TREATMENTS
Over the counter treatments are a great place to start for mild acne. Here are some of our general recommendations for acne prone skin:
- Wash your face with a gentle cleanser. Use your hands to wash your face with mild soap or a gentle cleanser and warm water. If your hair is oily, shampoo every day. Some of our favorites are:
- CETAPHIL
- CERAVE
- PURPOSE
- OTC acne treatments. Look for products containing benzoyl peroxide as the active ingredient. You might also try products containing salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or adapalene. Here are some of our favorites:
- CERAVE ACNE WASH
- DIFFERIN GEL
- Avoid irritants. Avoid facial scrubs, astringents, and masks. They tend to irritate the skin, which can worsen acne. Oily or greasy cosmetics, sunscreens, hairstyling products, or acne concealers can worsen acne. Instead, look for products labeled “oilfree” or non-comedogenic.
- Avoid touching or picking acne-prone areas. This can lead to infection and scarring.
- Use sun protection. Discolored marks left from acne can become darker with sun exposure. Also, certain acne medications make you more sensitive to the sun. It is crucial to use sun protection regularly. These are some of the ones we recommend for acne prone skin:
- CETAPHIL ACNE PRONE SPF
- CERAVE AM ULTRALIGHT
- LA ROCHE POSAY TINTED MINERAL SPF
WHEN TO COME SEE US?
Anytime! But especially if you’ve tried over-the-counter (nonprescription) acne products for several weeks and they haven’t helped.
We have lots of prescription strength options of both topical and oral medications and we tailor our treatment plan to your skin. We also offer some procedures that can be particularly helpful for acne such as chemical peels or THERACLEAR.
We can create a treatment regimen that will control your acne, avoid scarring, or make scarring less noticeable.
Call or book online if you would like to schedule an acne consultation with one of our acne experts.