Acne often manifests during puberty; however, this embarrassing and persistent skin condition can also invade your adulthood. It is unwise to use unprescribed skin care products to address acne without talking to your dermatologist, as they may worsen the condition. Dr. Michael Paltiel has years of experience in dermatology and knows the treatment for each type of acne, guaranteeing smooth, radiant skin at the end of treatment.
An overview of acne
Acne is a skin disorder due to the lugging of your hair follicles with dead skin cells and oil. Usually, oil drains out of your skin through the pores, but when the dead skin cells clog them, the oil is trapped, resulting in an acne breakout. In most cases, acne develops due to increased oil production, often due to hormonal fluctuations during women’s menstrual cycles ad puberty. Sometimes the bacteria on your skin may get trapped in the oil resulting in red, inflamed acne. Specific medications and genetics can also lead to acne breakouts. Although medical experts are yet to discover the role of certain foods in the development of acne, recent research shows that high-fat foods, milk, and sugary foods and drinks can increase the risk of developing acne in adults. Acne can develop in different forms, including nodules, whiteheads, blackheads, fungal acne, cysts, or papules. Nodules, papules and pustules are often due to inflammation. Once these lesions heal, our underlying skin may appear darker.
Factors contributing to the development of acne
Acne is often a result of fluctuation of androgen hormones which activate during the teenage and young adult period. Fatty acids within your oil glands, surface bacteria, and sensitivity to androgen hormones ultimately cause an acne breakout. Currently, numerous skin care products are on the market, some of which may cause side effects like acne. Picking at acne sores can also make them worse. Other factors that may worsen this skin condition include air pollution, headgear and clothes like sports helmets and hats, genetics, stress, and specific medications.
If acne invades the deeper layers of your skin, it can result in scarring. Your doctor may examine you to determine the type of acne you have before recommending treatment.
When to consult your doctor about acne
During your initial consultation, your provider may perform a thorough skin exam and enquire if you have a family history of acne or are undergoing stress. Your doctor may discuss your menstrual cycles if you’re a woman or a teenage girl. Sudden severe acne outbreaks can indicate an underlying medical disorder requiring treatment. After diagnosis, your provider may recommend specific non-prescription medications. Depending on your age, type of acne, and the severity of the condition, the team may prescribe stronger medications. The specialists may also recommend using specific contraceptives which contain progesterone and estrogen to improve acne. The Adult and Pediatric Dermatology team focuses on treating the underlying cause of your acne rather than treating the symptoms. Sometimes, they recommend steroids, lasers, or chemical peels to eliminate dead, dry skin. Many people can manage acne using home remedies, but if it worsens, don’t hesitate to inform your dermatologist.
Call the Adult and Pediatric Dermatology office for more information about acne remedies, or book your spot online.