Acne

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting people of all ages. It occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, leading to the development of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and cysts. At Skinsol Dermatology, we offer personalized acne treatments designed to help you achieve clearer, healthier skin.

Causes and Risk Factors

Acne is influenced by a variety of factors, including:

  • Excess oil production: Overactive sebaceous glands can produce too much oil, which can clog pores and contribute to acne.

  • Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or certain medical conditions can increase oil production and trigger acne outbreaks.

  • Bacteria: The presence of the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes in the skin can lead to inflammation and worsen acne.

  • Diet: Certain foods, particularly those high in sugar or dairy, may trigger or exacerbate acne in some individuals.

  • Genetics: Family history plays a role, as individuals with parents who had acne are more likely to develop it themselves.

Acne can appear in various forms, ranging from mild blackheads to more severe cystic acne, and the severity of acne often determines the treatment options.

Diagnosis

To diagnose acne, Victoria McKay, PA-C, will conduct a thorough examination and may ask questions regarding your skincare routine, lifestyle, and medical history. Diagnosis may include:

  • Visual examination: The provider will examine the skin for different types of acne lesions, such as pustules, nodules, and cysts.

  • Skin culture: In cases of severe or persistent acne, a sample may be taken to test for bacteria that could be contributing to the condition.

  • Blood tests: In rare cases, blood tests may be conducted to assess hormone levels or rule out other underlying conditions.

Early diagnosis can help develop a tailored treatment plan to prevent scarring and promote clearer skin.

Treatment Options

There are various effective treatment options for acne, ranging from topical treatments to advanced procedures. Our treatment options include:

  • Topical treatments: These include over-the-counter or prescription creams, gels, and lotions containing ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids that target acne at the surface.

  • Oral medications: For moderate to severe acne, oral antibiotics or hormone therapy may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and bacteria.

  • Laser and light therapies: Laser treatments can target acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation, while light therapy can help reduce oil production.

  • Chemical peels: A professional treatment that exfoliates the skin, removes dead skin cells, and helps unclog pores, reducing acne outbreaks.

  • Extraction: In-office procedures where comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) are safely removed by a trained professional.

  • Isotretinoin: For severe, cystic acne, isotretinoin (formerly Accutane) may be prescribed to reduce oil production and prevent future breakouts.

Your treatment plan will be customized based on your acne type, severity, and skin type to ensure the best results.

FAQs









  • No, acne can affect individuals of all ages, although it is most common during adolescence. Adult acne is also common, especially in women due to hormonal changes.

  • Yes, certain foods may trigger or worsen acne. Foods high in refined sugars and dairy products have been linked to acne outbreaks in some individuals.

  • Yes, acne scars can be treated with various methods, including laser treatments, chemical peels, and dermal fillers. Our providers will discuss the best options based on the type and severity of the scars.