Acne is a common skin condition that affects adolescents and adults alike. Characterized by a variety of different types of pimples, this disease can be as physically painful as it is emotionally embarrassing. Acne can significantly impact a person’s self-confidence and self-esteem, making it more than a simple skin problem. Fortunately, there are a number of effective acne treatments available today that reduce the incidence of breakouts while maintaining a higher level of skin health overall.
How Acne Happens
Acne involves oil glands containing sebum that are located at the base of the hair follicles. The follicles can become clogged with hair, dead skin cells and other substances, making them vulnerable to bacterial infection. The bacteria that causes acne is Propionibacterium acnes or P.acnes, which multiply in the trapped follicle and create pimples like blackheads and whiteheads.
These pimples can also become inflamed, which leads to larger pustules on the skin’s surface. These pustules can actually become physically painful and the inflammation can cause skin irritation and pain as well. While these breakouts will subside on their own in time, they can leave disfiguring scarring behind – a constant reminder of the condition even after it has cleared.
Causes of Acne
No one knows for sure what causes acne to occur in some people and not in others. Experts do believe that hormonal changes could impact the condition, which explains why acne often occurs during puberty and pregnancy. Acne may also be genetic, which means if you have family members with acne, you will be more likely to develop the condition as well.
Contrary to popular belief, acne is not caused by greasy foods, chocolate or poor hygiene. However, there are some factors that can make an acne condition worsen once it has already developed. These factors include picking and squeezing the pimples, which can lead to spreading of the inflammation, and stress. Humid conditions and excessive sweating may also exacerbate acne although there is little clinical evidence to support this theory at this time.
Symptoms of Acne
Acne results in a number of different types of pimples:
- Blackheads – black pimples that appear on the skin’s surface
- Whiteheads – small pimples that remain beneath the skin’s surface
- Pustules – red bumps with pus at the top
- Papules – small pink bumps on the skin’s surface
- Nodules – large, painful, solid pimples on the skin’s surface
- Cysts – large, painful pimples filled with pus that can leave scarring behind
In addition to the physical symptoms of acne, there are emotional symptoms of the condition as well. These might include low self-esteem and even depression that can sometimes persist even after the acne clears up. These are often some of the most compelling reasons people seek acne treatment, not only to enhance their appearance but to improve their quality of life overall.
Acne Treatment Options
At Dermacare Laser & Skin Care Clinics, we offer a variety of effective acne treatments, including:
- Facials & Chemical Peels
- Deep Pore Treatment
- BLU-U® Blue Light Therapy
- Levulan® PhotoDynamic Therapy (PDT)
Once you have undergone acne treatment in our office, we also offer medical-grade skin care you can use at home to enhance and prolong your results. The right formulations will be instrumental in keeping bacteria at bay and preventing the clogged pores that lead to breakouts. Our expert staff will help you choose the products that are best for your specific skin type, so you can get the positive results you are looking for.
If you are suffering the pain and embarrassment of acne, we can help. Our staff offers customizable treatments to help reduce your breakouts and bring your skin to a greater state of health. To learn more, contact Dermacare Laser & Skin Care Clinics at 760-472-5088 or 858-943-2443.