What You Need To Know About Acne
If you or a loved one struggle with acne, you know how frustrating it can be. However, at Abeles Dermatology Aesthetic & Laser Arts, clearer skin is achievable! Our dermatologist, Dr. Gwen Abeles, M.D., compassionately assess patients to arrive at treatment plans which really work.
What is acne?
Acne is a skin condition affecting people of all ages, but teenagers in particular. Often linked to the hormonal surges of puberty and menopause, acne causes frustrating outbreaks of reddened, sore, and pus-filled lesions on the face, neck, shoulders and chest.
Acne lesions form when sebaceous, or oil glands, in the skin are overactive and become plugged, forming characteristic whiteheads, blackheads and even large cysts. Besides being unsightly, acne lesions can leave scars and cause substantial heartache to people of all ages and walks of life.
What treatments are available?
There are many acne treatments. Some mild cases of acne respond well to many over the counter preparations such as creams, ointments and face washes which feature benzoyl peroxide. However, more stubborn or advanced cases require professional evaluation and treatment by a board-certified skin doctor.
At Abeles Dermatology Aesthetic & Laser Arts, Dr. Gwen Abeles, M.D. help patients manage their acne outbreaks. A comprehensive skin examination helps determine what care plan is best for the individual.
Treatment may include:
- Antibiotics for infected lesions
- Surgical excision of cysts
- Topically applied Retinoids such as Tretinoin
- Birth control pills to regulate hormone levels
- Salicylic acid preparations
In addition, lifestyle changes often help calm acne. They include:
- Daily, and gentle, face washing
- Keeping your hands away from your face
- Never squeezing acne pimples (this causes infection and scarring)
- Application of sunscreen which is noncomedogenic