Acne

Acne is an inflammatory condition which may include comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), red pimples, and even large nodules to different areas of the body. Acne commonly affects the face, but may also appear also on the shoulders, back, chest, arms, and buttocks.

Acne is commonly a skin condition of adolescence, but it can affect adults as well. The tendency toward acne often, but not always, runs in families. Treatments which help teens can often help adults as well.

Pinski Dermatology offers many treatments which can help improve acne. Schedule your consultation with one of our providers to see which treatment is right for you.

What is acne?

Acne is an inflammatory condition which may include comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), red pimples, and even large nodules or cysts. Acne commonly affects the face, but may also appear on the shoulders, back, chest, and arms. Acne is commonly a skin condition of adolescence, but it can affect adults as well.

There are three distinct types of acne, ranging from mild to severe:

▪ Comedonal acne is the mildest form of acne, and is predominated by white heads (closed comedones) and blackheads (open comedones).

▪ Inflammatory acne is a moderately severe form of acne that consists of pink bumps (papules) and pustules (pink bumps with white pus).

▪ Cystic acne is the most severe form of acne, and results in large, painful, swollen, deep red bumps that may heal with scarring.

What causes acne?

Acne is related to changes of the pilosebaceous unit (the hair follicle and oil gland), but there is no single cause. The cause of acne is multifactorial and can include:

▪ Clogged skin pores
▪ Hormonal changes
▪ Genetic factors
▪ Excess oil production by the skin’s oil glands
▪ Medications
▪ Environmental factors, such as humidity or pollution
▪ Inflammation caused by the bacteria Proprionibacterium acnes

How can I treat acne?

Early and appropriate aggressive treatment is needed to control acne. Combination treatment is usually necessary to manage the condition. This may consist of topical antibiotics, sulfur, alpha hydroxy acids, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids (vitamin A derivatives). Oral antibiotics may be required for a short period of time to control inflammatory acne. Severe cases may require an oral retinoid called isotretinoin (formerly the brand name Accutane), which requires monthly monitoring and blood tests.

There are many other medications that can help control acne. These include birth control pills, spironolactone (which helps some women with acne), topical prescriptions, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, photodynamic therapy, and Aerolase laser treatments.

Your provider will work with you to find the right combination of medications and procedures to help control your acne.

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