Treatments for Acne

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What is acne?

Acne is characterized by blackheads, whiteheads, red, inflamed bumps called papules and pustules, and in severe cases, deep-seated nodules and cysts. Acne is caused by increased sebum or oil production, clogged hair follicles, altered bacteria, and hormones. The T zone is the area between the forehead, nose, and chin where acne frequently occurs. However, the back, neck, chest, shoulders, upper arms, and buttocks can be affected by acne.

Who is at risk for acne?
Acne affects men and women of all races and ethnicities. 85% of acne sufferers are teens and young adults. Pre-adolescents can develop acne when there is an increase in hormones that trigger oil production and acne. Adult acne primarily affects women in their thirties and older.

What causes acne?
Acne commonly begins around puberty when androgen hormones increase. This stimulates enlargement of sebaceous glands and increased oil production. Excess oil with increased skin cell turnover (dead skin cells) block the sebaceous gland duct and hair follicle. The result is whiteheads and blackheads. Further, bacteria normally resides on skin. When certain bacteria become trapped in the hair follicle, it can cause inflammation and infection and lead to pustules, papules, nodules and cysts.

Genetics and hormones contribute to the formation of acne. Other factors associated with acne include:
- Insulin resistance
- Hormone imbalance such as in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Close-up of a textured surface with wavy patterns and bubbles, likely ice or glass.
Close-up of a young woman with red hair and blue eyes touching her cheek, showing acne scars and skin imperfections, wearing a black strap top and small hoop earring.

 FAQs

  • Acne affects men and women of all races and ethnicities. 85% of acne sufferers are teens and young adults. Pre-adolescents can develop acne when there is an increase in hormones that trigger oil production and acne. Adult acne primarily affects women in their thirties and older.

  • Acne commonly begins around puberty when androgen hormones increase. This stimulates enlargement of sebaceous glands and increased oil production. Excess oil with increased skin cell turnover (dead skin cells) block the sebaceous gland duct and hair follicle. The result is whiteheads and blackheads. Further, bacteria normally resides on skin. When certain bacteria become trapped in the hair follicle, it can cause inflammation and infection and lead to pustules, papules, nodules and cysts.

    Genetics and hormones contribute to the formation of acne. Other factors associated with acne include:

    • Insulin resistance

    • Hormone imbalance such as in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Acne Treatments

Treatments

Treatment is aimed at unclogging pores, reducing acne-causing bacteria, decreasing inflammation and sebum production. Combination therapy consists of topical or oral antibiotics, anti-inflammatory agents, anti-hormonal agents and retinoids. Chemical peels with glycolic acid and salicylic acid are good options to exfoliate and reduce oil in acne-prone skin. Women with hormonal acne or PCOS may receive oral contraceptives or other oral therapy to combat the hormonal component of acne. In the most severe cases, isotretinoin (Accutane) is very effective to treat nodular and cystic acne. Phototherapy using non-invasive light helps kill acne-causing bacteria and clear acne.

Nodular and cystic acne commonly cause scarring. Professional medical treatments can help to prevent or reduce scarring. Acne that is inadequately treated can cause permanent scarring of the skin and have a significant impact on self-esteem.

The most important action you can take is to start treatment early to prevent side effects and scarring. Early treatment can prevent mild acne from becoming severe and prevent red or dark spots called post -inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Early treatment can control acne, prevent future breakouts, and prevent scarring. If scarring is already established, there are treatments available to minimize and reverse the effects. During your consultation Dr. Rachel White will discuss your concerns and the best treatments for your specific condition, severity, and lifestyle.

Forever Clear BBL – A clear skin laser treatment utilizing BBL (BroadBand Light) technology to eliminate acne.

Your Team

The RW Dermatology team is located near Doylestown. They will tailor treatments to meet your needs. They may suggest a combination of therapies that may include topical and oral medications, chemical peels, skincare products, microneedling, and laser therapy.

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