We Treat

All Types of Acne

with Customized Solutions
Designed for Your Skin

What Is Acne?

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions but can be very difficult to diagnose and treat due to a lack of accurate information. Approximately 40 to 50 million Americans experience some form of acne in their lifetime. Not only teenagers have difficulties with acne. An increasing number of adults, especially women, struggle with the condition too.

Acne occurs when pores in our skin become clogged with dead skin cells. Our body produces excess oil, known as sebum, and this causes cells to stick together and become trapped in pores. Bacteria that reside normally in our skin (p. acnes) multiply in these pores causing redness and swelling. These changes appear as blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, cysts, and nodules on our skin. Acne can develop not only on the face, but also is common on the neck, chest, back and upper arms. If left untreated, acne can cause long term negative effects on the skin in the form of dark spots and scars. It can also have a negative impact on your self-esteem and lead to anxiety and depression.

How Can Acne Be Treated?

Virtually every case of acne can be treated. This treatment depends on the severity of the acne, the type of lesions present, and the age of the patient. Topical acne treatments are applied to the skin and may contain a retinoid, antibiotic, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid. If swollen types of blemishes area present, such as cysts or nodules, a dermatologist may prescribe an oral antibiotic to help kill bacteria and reduce inflammation. In severe cases of acne, Isotretinoin may be prescribed, a powerful derivative of Vitamin A that works on all types of acne.

The providers at Dermatology Associates of Oakbrook Terrace also treat acne during an office visit. These treatments include extraction of blackheads, chemical peels and microdermabrasion. For larger acne cysts, incision and drainage of the cyst or injection of a steroid into the lesion may improve it quickly, lessening the chance of scarring.

It often takes 6-8 weeks to see acne improve by 60-80% with treatment. Once the acne is under good control, treatment must be continued to prevent further breakouts.

What Can We Do To Prevent Acne?

Although acne is greatly determined by your family history and hormonal changes, there are things you can do to help your skin. Acne build up can be reduced by following these skin care tips:

  • Wash your face twice daily, as well as after exercise and sports. Perspiration can worsen acne.
  • Use a non-abrasive cleanser and wash gently, using your fingertips. Do not scrub your skin because it can inflame acne.
  • Keep your hands away from your face and do not pick or squeeze acne lesions. This habit only delays healing and increases your risk of developing dark marks and acne scarring.
  • Shampoo regularly, especially if you have dandruff or an oily scalp.
  • Protect your skin from the sun and do not go to tanning beds. Some acne medications increase your skin’s sensitivity to ultraviolet light which may lead to sunburning and increases your risk of developing skin cancer. UV light also darkens acne scarring and is not beneficial in the treatment of acne.

Concerned About Acne?

Book an appointment with us today for a consultation on which acne treatment is the best fit for you.

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