Understanding Acne: Causes and Treatment Options

posted: Oct. 28, 2024.

Acne is one of the most common skin problems treated by a dermatologist. Acne is a condition affecting both teenagers and adults. If you have acne, you may be wondering about treatment options. Your dermatologist can tell you more.

What You Need To Know About Acne

The most common cause of acne is plugged pores. Pores can become plugged with dead skin cells, excess oil, bacteria, and debris. Many of the most effective acne treatments are designed to get rid of debris and other substances, opening up plugged pores. Acne treatments of this type include:

Benzoyl peroxide topical products to help clear pores
Extraction to remove blackheads or whiteheads completely
Isotretinoin products to treat severe cystic acne

Bacteria on the skin can also cause acne. Acne treatments to clear up acne related to bacteria include:

Topical and oral antibiotics to clear up underlying bacteria causing your acne
Laser treatment to kill underlying bacteria infecting your pores

A third cause of acne is hormonal fluctuations, which explains why acne breakouts can increase during puberty, menstruation, and even menopause. For hormone-related acne, your dermatologist may recommend hormonal supplementation, including birth control pills to stabilize hormone levels.

When you have an acne breakout, it may be tempting to pick or pop your blemishes. Unfortunately, this habit can lead to ugly acne scarring. If you have acne scarring, your dermatologist may recommend skin resurfacing treatments, including:

Microdermabrasion, using mild abrasive agents and suction to renew skin
Microneedling to promote collagen production to renew skin
Laser treatment, using heat and light energy to resurface skin

You can do a lot to prevent acne by keeping your skin clean. Remember to:

Cleanse your skin at least twice daily
Avoid going to bed with makeup on your face
Clean and disinfect your cell phone regularly
Use non-comedogenic makeup that won’t clog pores

Want To Know More About Acne and Acne Treatments?

To find out more about the causes and treatment options for acne, talk with an expert. Call your dermatologist today.

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