Acne (also known as acne vulgaris) is a common skin condition that affects almost all people at some point in their life, but to varying degrees. While it is more common in teenagers, it also affects over 20% of all adults.
Many factors can contribute to the formation of acne. The underlying issue is abnormal regulation of cells inside the tiny hair follicles on the face (these follicles don’t produce a hair). This leads to the formation of a plugged follicle or a microcomedone. This plug stops the normal outward movement of skin cells and oil (or sebum). When sebum gets trapped in the hair follicles, the follicles become a breeding ground for a type of bacteria that normally lives in the follicles called Propionibacterium acnes. These bacteria produce material which cause inflammation (redness and irritation) and attracts your immune cells. Eventually this build-up can lead to a ruptured hair follicle and even more inflammation and pain.
Acne can appear in many different forms including:
No. Acne is not caused by dirt or by foods, these are both myths.
Prescription medicines and treatments used by our providers, work better than over the counter medicines. Acne medications work well, but usually take 3-4 weeks to kick in after starting. Prescription acne medications include:
There are many treatments that Brandon Dermatology offers which helps treat acne. Physical treatments performed by dermatologists work well and work fast; usually showing results in less than 2 weeks. These treatments include:
Treating acne is important to prevent scars later in life. Treatment of acne has also been associated with improving self-esteem and improving mental health.
Click here to make an appointment with a Board Certified Dermatologist to have your acne treated.