Acne in Kennesaw, GA affects more than just teens. Studies have shown that while acne is most common among teenagers, it also affects people in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
Acne develops due to hormones, bacteria, excess oil, and dead skin cells that accumulate and clog follicles. Genetic and other lifestyle factors can also contribute to the development of acne.
Over-the-counter acne medications can help treat mild acne, though moderate to severe acne will require a prescription treatment plan.
How Acne is Diagnosed
Acne is diagnosed through a physical examination of the skin. Your dermatologist will assess your acne by type and severity.
Types of acne include comedonal, inflammatory, cystic, or nodular. And severity will be categorized as mild, moderate, severe.
Treatment options will then follow the diagnosed type and severity of your acne.
Everything You Should Know About Your Skin’s History
Your provider will also ask you about your skincare routine, diet, hormone changes, medications, and family history.
Acne usually occurs due to multiple factors, and that health history will inform your treatment recommendations.
What is Comedonal Acne?
Comedonal acne occurs when pores become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. They present as blackheads and whiteheads instead of red pimples.
Comedonal acne responds well to topical retinoids and exfoliants but does not require antibiotics. Knowing whether you have comedonal acne early can help you see faster results.
What is Cystic Acne?
Cystic acne forms under the surface of the skin and will often feel painful. It is also the most likely type of acne to cause scarring.
Cystic acne does not usually improve with over-the-counter medications. A dermatologist can help by creating a prescription treatment plan that targets cystic lesions.
How Do Topical Treatments Work?
Retinoids and benzoyl peroxide work on the surface of skin to treat acne. Retinoids unclog pores by accelerating cell turnover, while benzoyl peroxide kills the bacteria that causes inflammatory acne.
Topical antibiotics work similarly to benzoyl peroxide but come in a prescription strength. Azelaic acid is another effective topical option that treats acne and hyperpigmentation.
How Long Will I Have To Use Topical Treatments?
It takes time for acne medication to show results. Most topical medications need to be used consistently for 6-8 weeks before your skin improves.
Patients who stop their topical treatment early are the most likely not to see the results they want. Discontinuing use does not mean that it isn’t working.
Treatment Options For Acne in Kennesaw, GA
Oral medications like doxycycline work systemically to reduce inflammation and bacteria in your skin.
Spironolactone is a hormonal medication offered to patients whose acne is exacerbated by their menstrual cycle.
Isotretinoin, also known as Accutane, is an oral medication used to treat severe cystic acne. Accutane requires monitoring and bloodwork, though it has the potential to clear even the most stubborn cases of acne.
In-Office Procedures to Treat Acne
Office procedures for acne in Kennesaw, GA, such as cortisone injections can reduce the appearance of a painful cyst in 48 hours or less.
Chemical peels and light therapy both help skin by reducing oil production and killing existing bacteria.
How Do Dermatologists Treat Acne Scars?
Once your acne is clear, there are procedures to reduce the appearance of acne scars.
The type of treatment your dermatologist recommends will depend on your skin type and how severe your scarring is.
The underlying acne will need to be controlled before any scar treatment. Treatments are most effective once your acne is clear and not likely to return.
Can Acne Cause Permanent Damage?
Allowing acne to persist can cause permanent damage to your skin. Things like scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation are difficult to treat once they develop.
Early intervention by a dermatologist can help you avoid permanent skin damage. Prescription acne medications can also be adjusted to your needs.
Find the Right Treatment Plan for Your Acne Today, Call For a Consultation Now!
If you want to stop breaking out and start seeing results, contact our office online or give us a call now at 678-505-8030 to learn more about your options.
You will get a thorough skin evaluation and our expert team will help you build a treatment plan that works for you and your skin.
