Acne is a very common skin condition that is usually related to changes in hormone levels during puberty. However, it can be linked to a number of other factors, including medications and cosmetics containing certain ingredients. The good news is that there is a range of effective treatments that can help alleviate symptoms, which you can learn more about here.
Although acne can start at any age, it is more common during puberty when certain hormones can cause the glands next to hair follicles to produce excess oil (sebum). Hormone changes can also cause the inner lining of the hair follicle to thicken, which can further block the pores. Acne can cause problems such as spots, pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and cysts, and may cause the skin to feel hot or painful. While most acne occurs on the face, it can also occur on the back, chest, shoulders, or buttocks.
Ingredients That May Cause Acne
Hormone changes are usually the main cause of acne, however, other factors, such as certain medications, diet, stress, and smoking, may trigger or worsen acne, too. There are also some cosmetics that contain ingredients that may contribute to acne. These acne-causing ingredients, known as comedogenic ingredients, may block the pores in the skin, causing acne breakouts, and therefore, may need to be avoided if you have acne-prone skin. Comedogenic ingredients can include:
- Beeswax
- Acetylated lanolin
- Algae extract
- Benzaldehyde
- Sodium chloride
- Lauric acid
- Some oils, such as coconut oil, almond oil, wheat germ oil, and cocoa butter
- Isopropyl myristate
- Stearic acid
- Some red pigmentations
Effective Treatments for Acne
There are many home remedies and over-the-counter treatments available that can help reduce acne. However, these can have mixed results, and depending on the underlying cause of the acne, some products may even cause symptoms to get worse.
If you suffer from acne, a dermatologist can provide a range of effective treatments that can help treat acne and keep it away. The dermatologist will carry out a thorough examination to evaluate your needs and determine the best treatment for your condition. They will develop a treatment plan that may include education, cosmeceutical products (cosmetic products with medicinal benefits), medications, and in-office therapies, such as:
- Glycolic peels – an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) chemical exfoliation treatment that is used to improve the health and appearance of skin and reduce pore size. It is effective in eliminating blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples from the skin and can help improve skin tone, texture, and overall complexion.
- Microdermabrasion– uses fine crystals or a diamond-tipped wand to gently exfoliate the skin, removing the top layer of skin and dead skin cells. It can help fade acne scars, even out skin tone, and brighten a dull complexion.
- Morpheus 8–radiofrequency micro-needling to help treat acne and any associated scarring.
- Fraxel laser treatment – a safe and effective laser resurfacing treatment that uses laser energy to encourage collagen production and stimulate the growth of healthy new skin cells to replace old, damaged cells. Treatment can help resurface damaged skin and reduce acne scarring and post-acne hyperpigmentation. It only treats a small area of tissue at a time, promoting rapid healing and leaving surrounding tissue untouched. The treatment penetrates beneath the top layer of the skin to encourage healthy cell renewal.
- Acne surgery – typically used to treat acne scarring. Surgical procedures can vary but may include a minor procedure called punch excision, where individual acne scars are removed and repaired with stitches or a skin graft. A subcision, involves inserting needles under the skin to loosen fibers below a scar.
- Intralesional corticosteroid treatment– to treat acne cysts. It involves injecting a steroid solution directly into the affected area or immediately below the skin. Treatment aims to reduce symptoms such as inflammation, itching, or pain and to improve appearance.
Experienced Skin Doctor in Miami, FL
If you are looking for effective acne treatment, contact Children’s Skin Center Pediatric and Adult Dermatology for expert care. Our experienced, board-certified dermatologists and certified physician assistants have advanced training in both dermatology and pediatric dermatology and offer a wide range of advanced, affordable treatments for acne and other skin conditions in infants, children, and adults.
To learn more about our services, contact us at one of our convenient locations throughout South Florida. To schedule an appointment, please call or text us at (305) 669-6555.
