Acne

Why does acne happen?

Acne occurs when the sebaceous glands — the oil-producing glands — make extra sebum (oil). The cells lining the skin follicles continually shed, and when skin sheds too quickly, it combines with the extra oil to clog your pores. This, in turn, causes acne.

Where can acne develop?

Acne is most common on your face, but it can also develop on your:

• Chest
• Back
• Neck
• Other body parts

Who gets acne?

It's a common myth that only teenagers develop acne during puberty. Many adults continue to have at least occasional acne breakouts well into middle age.

Hormones, genetics, and stress are significant contributors to acne. Overactive oil glands produce excess oil that combines with skin cells, leading to pore blockage and bacterial proliferation, subsequently triggering breakouts.While acne is most common in adolescents, no one is immune from developing acne.

Why do acne scars develop?

When acne becomes inflamed, the pores will swell significantly. This results in a broken follicle wall. The extra oil and dead skin then exit your body, but the damaged skin remains. This can eventually result in a scar.

The best way to avoid acne scars is to:

• Never pick at your pimples
• Never pop pimples
• Avoid using highly abrasive facial products

How is acne treated?

Acne treatment depends on the:

• Degree of the problem
• Type of acne (hormonal or cystic)
• Individual treatment preferences

Treatment may include options such as:

Oral medications

These include antibiotics like tetracycline or minocycline or acne-specific medications such as Accutane®. While oral medications can be highly effective, they're not designed to be used for long periods of time. You may opt to alternate an oral medication with a topical medication, for example.

Topical medications

These may include liquid antibiotics like:

• Clindamycin
• Creams
• Gels
  

These prescription topical medications are much more effective than those you can purchase over the counter.

Laser treatments

Some lasers may be used in the treatment of acne. Laser treatments work by inhibiting bacterial growth and encouraging healing of damaged skin.

The best acne treatment for you may be one of these options or a combination of treatments. The LaSante Health Center team will work with you to devise an individualized treatment plan. Call the office or request an appointment online today.