Acne

Everyone wants blemish-free skin, but for many, clear skin does not come naturally. Acne usually makes its first appearance on the youthful skin of adolescents during puberty. This is a time when hormones are changing and the body is transforming to take on the appearance of an adult. Although acne is highly common during this time period, it can still be a source of embarrassment. To make matters worse, acne can follow teens into adulthood, plaguing them with unsightly pimples and blemishes during their 20s, 30s, 40s, and even 50s. Fortunately, there are acne treatments available to help people who struggle with acne – whether teenagers or adults.

Did you know…

that according to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne is the number one skin problem in the U.S.? In fact, as many as 50 million people are thought to suffer from the condition at any time – including teens, adults, and even babies. Of those, 17 million are thought to suffer from acne on an ongoing basis. It can strike anyone at anytime. Even adults who have never had skin problems can suddenly be stricken with adult-onset acne. The AAD reports that adult-onset acne can occur as late as menopause, when many women are experiencing skin problems as a result of hormonal changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a candidate for acne treatments?

You may be a candidate for professional acne treatment if you are bothered by skin blemishes, pimples, cysts or nodules that do not respond to over-the-counter acne treatments. A dermatologist can provide s prescription or in-office treatments that will provide significant results in as little as a few weeks.

What should I expect when being treated for acne?

Your dermatologist will analyze your skin and ask you questions about your acne, such as when it first appeared. Based on your initial exam, your dermatologist will ‘grade’ your acne between 1 and 4, with 1 representing the mildest acne and 4 representing the most severe cases. Your treatment will depend on the severity of your acne and what types of treatments you have already tried. More than likely, you’ll be prescribed a topical acne treatment to either kill bacteria or minimize oil. However, you may also be given oral medications to help control acne, such as an antibiotic, birth control pills, or isotretinoin. Office therapies, such as light therapy, may also prove beneficial.

Is there anything I can do to facilitate the treatment process and improve my outcome?

Yes, there are plenty of steps you can take to help minimize acne. Be sure to keep your skin clean by washing it twice daily and after working out. Avoid picking at your skin or blemishes, instead allowing them to heal naturally. Also, use gentle, alcohol-free products on your skin, being careful to avoid scrubbing too harshly.