Acne
Clearer Skin Starts Here
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting people of all ages. Whether you’re dealing with occasional breakouts or persistent, severe acne, professional treatment can help you control flare-ups, prevent scarring, and restore clear, healthy skin.
What Is Acne?
Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, leading to pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and deeper cysts. It can appear on the face, back, chest, and shoulders and is often triggered by hormonal changes, stress, diet, or genetics. While acne is not dangerous, untreated breakouts can cause scarring, dark spots, and emotional distress, making early intervention crucial.
Types of Acne
Comedonal Acne (Blackheads & Whiteheads)
Occurs when pores become clogged with oil and dead skin cells.
- Blackheads: Open pores filled with oxidized oil, appearing as dark spots.
- Whiteheads: Closed clogged pores that appear as small, white bumps.
Papules & Pustules (Inflammatory Acne)
Caused by bacterial growth in clogged pores, leading to red, swollen breakouts.
- Papules: Small, red, inflamed bumps with no visible pus.
- Pustules: Red bumps with a white or yellow center filled with pus.
Cystic Acne
The most severe form of acne, characterized by large, painful cysts beneath the skin.
- Caused by deep inflammation and infection.
- Can lead to long-term scarring if untreated.
Hormonal Acne
Triggered by hormonal fluctuations, commonly appearing on the jawline, chin, and lower face.
- More frequent in teens, women, and individuals with PCOS.
- Often linked to increased oil production and chronic breakouts.
Dermatologist-Recommended Acne Prevention
While acne isn’t always avoidable, making small changes can help reduce breakouts and keep skin clearer.
Follow a Consistent Skincare Routine
A gentle, daily skincare regimen can help unclog pores and balance oil production.
- Use a fragrance-free cleanser with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to target breakouts.
- Apply a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to prevent dryness.
- Avoid harsh scrubs, which can irritate the skin and worsen acne.
Avoid Picking & Popping Pimples
Squeezing blemishes can push bacteria deeper into the skin, causing inflammation, infection, and scarring.
- Instead, use spot treatments with benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, or tea tree oil.
- If a pimple is painful or persistent, a dermatologist can safely drain it.
Monitor Diet & Lifestyle Factors
Certain foods and lifestyle habits can influence breakouts, especially for acne-prone individuals.
- Reduce dairy, sugar, and highly processed foods, which may trigger inflammation.
- Stay hydrated and eat antioxidant-rich foods like berries and leafy greens.
- Manage stress levels, as hormonal fluctuations from stress can worsen acne.
Topical Medications
Prescription creams target acne-causing bacteria, clogged pores, and excess oil production.
- Retinoids (Tretinoin, Adapalene) unclog pores and speed up cell turnover.
- Benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria.
- Azelaic acid & salicylic acid help reduce inflammation and prevent breakouts.
Oral Medications
For moderate to severe acne, oral treatments can help regulate hormones and reduce inflammation.
- Antibiotics (Doxycycline, Minocycline) target bacteria and inflammation.
- Hormonal therapy (Birth control, Spironolactone) balances hormones in female patients.
- Isotretinoin (Accutane) is a powerful medication for severe, cystic acne, permanently reducing oil production.
Chemical Peels & Extractions
Professional skin treatments can clear pores, reduce oil, and fade acne scars.
- Salicylic acid & glycolic acid peels exfoliate the skin and prevent breakouts.
- Comedone extractions remove stubborn blackheads and whiteheads.
Laser & Light Therapy
Advanced light-based treatments target acne at the source, reducing inflammation and breakouts.
- Blue light therapy kills acne-causing bacteria.
- Laser treatments reduce redness, oil production, and acne scars.
FAQs
What causes acne?
Acne develops when oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells clog pores, often influenced by hormones, stress, diet, and genetics.
Is acne only a teenage problem?
No! Many adults experience hormonal acne, stress-induced breakouts, and cystic acne well into their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
Does diet affect acne?
Some foods, like dairy and high-glycemic foods, may contribute to breakouts, but acne is mainly influenced by hormones and genetics.
How long does it take for acne treatments to work?
Most acne treatments take 4–8 weeks to show noticeable improvement
Can stress cause acne?
Yes! Stress increases cortisol levels, which stimulates oil production and inflammation, leading to breakouts.
What is the best way to get rid of acne scars?
Chemical peels, microneedling, laser treatments, and topical retinoids can help fade acne scars over time.
Does wearing makeup make acne worse?
Non-comedogenic and oil-free makeup is safe, but always remove makeup before bed to prevent clogged pores
Can I cure acne permanently?
While acne can be managed and significantly reduced, some patients may require ongoing maintenance treatments to prevent breakouts.
When should I see a dermatologist for acne?
If over-the-counter products aren’t working, or you experience painful, cystic breakouts or acne scarring, professional treatment is recommended.
Still Have Questions?
Get Clearer Skin with Expert Acne Treatment
If you’re struggling with persistent breakouts, hormonal acne, or acne scars, our dermatology team can create a customized treatment plan to help you achieve clear, healthy skin.
Dermatologists
Tessa Cervantes MD
Dermatologist
Dr. Cervantes specializes in comprehensive care for diverse skin types.
Tessa Cervantes MD
Dermatologist
Dr. Cervantes specializes in comprehensive care for diverse skin types.
Milton Moore MD
Dr. Moore is a seasoned dermatologist known for his innovative approach and dedication to excellence. With a focus on comprehensive skin health, he’s committed to delivering exceptional outcomes for every patient.
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