Acne
What causes acne?
A combination of genetics, hormones, birth control pills/Depo-Provera, Andro or DHEA and aggravating factors such as
stress, heat, sweat, friction, and substances which plug the oil glands.
How do I cure adult acne?
Acne is controlled, not cured. It may continue into adult life, especially in women.
Does dirt or diet cause acne?
Dirt or diet does not cause acne. Some notice that caffeine, milk or processed foods aggravate it.
Why does stress worsen acne?
Women under stress produce more androgens and both sexes produce more adrenocorticoids.
Do cosmetics cause acne?
Certain foundations/concealers may worsen acne. Use non-comedogenic non-acnegenic products. Don't use "all day wear" or "long
wearing" foundations. If mineral powder is used it should be applied with a sponge not a brush.
Is it OK to pop a pimple?
Picking acne may cause scars. If a blackhead or pus drop is visible, one gentle squeeze with clean fingertips is
acceptable.
How do hormones influence acne?
Some females have hormonal imbalance and produce more androgens or respond abnormally to androgens.
How bad does acne get before you go to a dermatologist?
Acne that doesn't respond to over the counter treatment should be evaluated by a dermatologist to help control acne and
prevent scarring.
How is acne treated?
Treatment includes medicated skin care, surface retinoids, antibiotics and benzoyl peroxide, oral antibiotics,
ClearLight™, chemical peels, acne surgery, SilkPeel® , IPL® /PDT and for females hormonal therapy. For severe
unresponsive acne isotretinoin (Accutane® and others) may be considered
For acne advice, treatments available in our Texas acne treatment clinic click the link.
Glycolic and Salicylic Acids, Tea Tree Oil, Papaya prevent and treat breakouts. Vitamin E, Natural Green Tea Extract,
Panthenol reduce red acne marks and irritation.
Topical Retinoids
Prescription medications Retin-A®, Differin®, Tazorac® that help unplug pores.
Surface Antibiotics and Benzoyl Peroxide
Used to decrease bacteria.
Antibiotic Pills
Tetracycline antibiotics such as Minocycline, Doxycycline and Tetracycline are used when acne is more severe, or there are
deeper cysts.
Acne Surgery
Gentle removal of acne plugs and blackheads using sterile tools.
High-intensity blue-violet light activates bacteria-fighting compounds.
Combines precision exfoliation with a diamond treatment head delivering a topical salicylic acid.
Glycolic Acid Peels are effective in treating acne and pigmentation from old acne blemishes.
IPL® plus a topical medication.
Fraxel Laser is used for acne scars.
Hormonal Therapy
Certain Birth Control Pills help to clear acne. Certain ones, like Yasmin®, and Yaz® contain a progestin
which lowers testosterone.
Isotretinoin
If patients are unresponsive then Isotretinoin (Accutane® and others) may be used. Controls acne and reduces
or prevents scarring. There may be side effects and patients are closely monitored during treatment.
How long does it take to improve acne?
Judge a treatment program after 2-3 months. Old pimples and discoloration may take months to resolve. Treatment must be continued to maintain
improvement.
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