Acne: What You Need To Know and how to treat
Acne
What Causes Acne?
Acne has three major components. For most, although not all, all three components play a role in acne.
1. Pores can become clogged. Clogged pores are not caused by dirt! Pores get clogged because the process of skin sloughing (when dead cells fall off) does not occur properly. The dead cells, along with sebum (the oils made from the pores), clog the hair follicles (pores). When these oils mix with oxygen, then oxidize and turn black. These lesions are called "blackheads".
Some makeups can clog pores. Therefore, it is recommended that “oil-free” makeups that are “non-comedogenic” (which means does not clog pores) be used. Additionally, some hair gels and greases can also clog pores.
2. A bacteria called Cutibacterium acnes can inhabit the hair follicles (pores). In some people, this results in inflammation of the skin that results in papules (red bumps), pustules (“whiteheads”), or cysts (bumps under the skin).
3. Hormones can play a significant role in the development of acne. Most adolescents experience acne due to the increase in “hormones”. Testosterone results in increased oil production, which can lead to clogged pores or as food for the bacterium that causes acne. Often, women experience a flare of acne approximately one week before menses. This too is due to “hormones”.
Is an acne treatment center necessary for you?
The world is full of toxic cosmetic products that promise to work like magic. But the reality is that most cosmetic products are not very effective, and they can harm your skin in so many ways.
There are different types of acne and some products work well for one type and not well for another.
We will evaluate your skin and find the best and most cost effective treatment for your skin.
IMPORTANT NOTE FOR ALL ACNE PATIENTS
Use all medications exactly as prescribed! It takes 6 weeks or longer to see any effect of the medications (both pills and creams). As every patient's skin works in a different way, the results may vary. So be patient and continue to use your medications as prescribed until your next scheduled appointment so that the effects of the treatment can be properly assessed. If you have any questions or problems, please call our office or visit our acne treatment center so that we can ensure that you are receiving the most effective treatment possible in a way that best suits your skin.
Unless approved by your doctor, it is not recommended that any over-the-counter acne products be used in conjunction with those prescribed by us. Don't use facial scrubs, masks, harsh cleansers, or astringents unless approved by your doctor. Not all medications are safe to use if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.
Acne scarring can be treated, but first one must get the acne under control.
Call us today for a skilled skin consultation!
Topical Medications
IMPORTANT NOTE: Unless otherwise instructed, topical medications for acne are not to be used as a “spot treatment—do not apply to pimples only. In fact, these medications do little to improve existing acne and work best to prevent new acne from forming. Be patient as it takes at least 4 to 6 weeks to see the effects of treatment. Moisturizers and makeups can be applied after the medication is applied. Most topical medications are antibiotics or have antibiotic-like properties. Our RSB SkinCare Acne Kit is strong enough to handle most mild-moderate inflammatory acne cases and mild cases of clogged pores. Add the over-the-counter Differin Gel (available in any drug store) to this regimen and most patients will have great results. Call to order your kit today!
Laser
The Silk’n Blue Acne Solution device, available at Amazon and Macy’s for approximately $150, has been shown to reduce inflammatory acne lesions. It is not very effective against clogged pores (blackheads). For patients who do not want to take oral antibiotics, this may be a good option to add to a topical regimen. This in combination with the RSB SkinCare Acne Kit is an acne-killing combination. Click to order your acne kit now.
Find the BEST acne doctor near me
There are different types of acne that are treated VERY differently. One must identify the type of acne and treat that. In addition, there are medications that are VERY expensive and ones that are inexpensive. Many physicians ignore cost and prescribe very costly medications. Many push products that they sell in their office that are often completely unnecessary and overpriced. Dr. Bader will find the best solution for your skin at the most affordable cost.