Why do I have acne?
Acne is a chronic condition that leads to painful and unsightly bumps and pimples among teens and adults alike. As hair follicles become clogged with debris, oil, and dead skin cells, you start developing whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and even painful cysts.
Whether you have an occasional breakout or seem to develop acne on an ongoing basis, it could be linked to:
- Hormonal fluctuations, which is common during puberty and pregnancy
- Certain medications, including corticosteroids
- Excessive oil production
- Family history of acne
Certain cosmetics, especially makeup that contains oil, can also clog your pores and lead to acne breakouts.
When should I see a dermatologist for acne?
Acne isn’t a serious medical condition, but breakouts can make you feel uncomfortable and self-conscious. They may also lead to serious scarring that can affect you for a lifetime. The highly skilled dermatologists at Sanford Dermatology encourage you to come in for an evaluation if your acne is:
- Getting worse
- Causing scars
- Occurring more frequently
- Associated with painful lumps or cysts
- Not improving with over-the-counter remedies
Your dedicated dermatologist evaluates your skin and talks with you about your symptoms. It’s helpful for them to know about any remedies you’ve tried at home. If possible, make a list of all over-the-counter products you’ve tried, so your dermatologist can find prescription-strength alternatives that may help.
What is the treatment for acne?
Your acne treatment plan from Sanford Dermatology is entirely personalized to you and your acne symptoms (including scarring). Treating acne may involve combining several of the following solutions:
- Prescription-strength salicylic azelaic acid ointments
- Removal of whiteheads or blackheads (extractions)
- Topical or oral retinoid medications
- Oral contraceptives (for women)
- Chemical peels
- Oral antibiotics
- Laser therapy
Your dermatologist at Sanford Dermatology can even talk with you about over-the-counter acne treatments, as well as makeup that won’t clog your pores. The goal of your acne treatment is to target any blemishes you have and prevent them from returning.
Restore your healthier skin by booking an acne evaluation at Sanford Dermatology today. Request an appointment online, or call your most convenient office directly.
