Acne

Acne is characterized by pimples and blemishes on your skin, in particular on the face, back, and chest. It’s the most common skin condition in the U.S., affecting as many as 80% of adolescents and 5% of adults.

Acne exists as two types of blemishes:

Whiteheads or blackheads
Also known as comedones, these blemishes are non-inflammatory and appear on your face and shoulders.

Red pustules or papules
These are inflamed pores, filled with pus. Infection commonly occurs and can lead to scarring without proper care.

Everyone has oil glands under the skin called sebaceous glands, which produce an oily substance called sebum. In cases of acne, the structure through which the sebum flows gets blocked, trapping the sebum and dead skin cells underneath the skin. In addition to a plugged follicle, inflammation, hormonal changes, and acne-producing bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes) all play a part in the formation of acne.

Treatment for acne comes in various forms, but it’s important to recognize that results may take time. Dr. Michele Moraes may suggest topical medications, oral medications, or an extraction process to get rid of your acne. These treatment options include:

• Benzoyl peroxide: reduces the blockages in hair follicles
• Oral and topical antibiotics: combat infections in the pores
• Hormonal treatments: commonly used by adult women with hormonally-induced acne
• Tretinoin: a form of Vitamin A that helps unclog pore blockages
• Extraction: involves a small instrument that physically removes blockages from your pores
• Isotretinoin (formerly known as Accutane): oral medication used for severe cases of acne in select patients

If your cleaners and skin care regimen don’t seem to put up an effective fight against acne, contact Dr. Moraes’ practice today to have her assess your case, and suggest the best remedy for you.