Treatment of Acne in Phoenix, AZ
How does acne form?
Acne is a highly common skin condition, especially in teenagers and preteens, but you can get a pimple or full-on breakout at any age. Most people see their acne subside on its own. Still, some get severe or cystic acne that doesn’t go away so easily.
Acne is an inflammatory condition that develops when your pores overproduce oil or sebum. Those pores then clog with sebum and dead skin cells, which can naturally attract bacteria on your skin’s surface. This leads to inflammation or even infection.
Some acne lesions are on the surface of your skin while others are deeper and more tender. The acne lesions you get can be blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pimples, or nodules.
What causes acne or makes it worse?
The true cause of acne is excessive oil production from your skin, which can be genetic or come from hormone fluctuations. The hormonal component of acne is why the condition is so common in pubescent teens and pregnant women.
Other factors can induce or worsen your acne, too. They include:
- Specific medications (e.g., corticosteroids, lithium)
- Genetics
- Dietary factors
- Stress
- Oily cosmetics
- Pressure or friction on the skin
To avoid getting acne scars that outlast an acne lesion or breakout, you should avoid pricking, picking, or popping your pimples as doing so can damage the skin around them.
How do dermatologists treat acne?
Dermatology Associates offers professional acne treatment that doesn’t go away on its own. If you have severe or cystic acne, the team examines your skin and reviews your medical history to come up with a personalized treatment plan to clear your skin.
Individualized treatment for acne can involve medications, topical products, and various therapies to alleviate inflammation and bacteria. The Dermatology Associates team may treat your acne with:
- Oral contraceptives (birth control)
- Retinoids
- Salicylic acid
- Light therapy
- Antibiotics
- Isotretinoin
- Extractions
- Steroid injections