Acne: causes, types, and treatment at Advanced Dermatology, P.C.
Acne is common, but that does not make recurring or difficult-to-treat breakouts any less frustrating. Acne can affect people at different stages of life and may look different from person to person.
Understanding what causes acne, what type you may have and how treatment can help can make it easier to know when to seek professional care. At Advanced Dermatology, P.C., our dermatologists treat acne at more than 40 locations throughout New York and New Jersey.
What is acne?
Acne is a common skin condition that develops when hair follicles, often called pores, become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Bacteria and inflammation can also contribute to acne and the bumps and other changes it causes.
Acne most often affects the face, but it can also develop on the back, chest, shoulders and other areas of the body.
Acne can range from occasional blackheads or whiteheads to deeper, painful breakouts. Because there are different types of acne, treatment needs can vary from person to person.
What causes acne?
There is no single cause of acne. Several factors can contribute to clogged pores, bacteria and inflammation, which can contribute to acne.
Excess oil and dead skin cells
Your skin naturally produces an oil called sebum. When your skin produces too much oil, it can mix with dead skin cells and clog a hair follicle. This may lead to blackheads, whiteheads and other acne lesions.
Bacteria
A type of bacteria called Cutibacterium acnes normally lives on the skin. When a hair follicle becomes clogged, these bacteria can contribute to inflammation.
Hormones
Hormonal changes can increase oil production and contribute to breakouts. This is one reason acne is common during puberty. Hormones may also play a role in acne associated with menstrual cycles, pregnancy and adulthood.
Genetics
Your genes may affect your likelihood of developing acne. If one or both of your parents had acne, you may be more likely to develop it.
These factors are not your fault, and having acne does not mean you have done something wrong. A dermatologist can help identify factors that may be contributing to your breakouts and recommend treatment based on your skin.
Types of acne
Acne lesions are generally classified as non-inflammatory or inflammatory. Knowing which type you have can help explain why your dermatologist may recommend certain treatments.
Non-inflammatory acne includes:
- Blackheads: Clogged pores that remain open at the skin’s surface, giving them a dark appearance.
- Whiteheads: Clogged pores that remain closed at the surface, creating small, flesh-colored or white bumps.
Inflammatory acne includes:
- Papules: Small, red, raised bumps that may be tender or inflamed.
- Pustules: Inflamed bumps that contain pus and may have a white or yellow center.
- Nodules: Larger, deeper and often painful lumps that develop beneath the skin.
- Cysts: Deep, painful acne lesions that can increase the risk of scarring.
Nodules and cysts can be more difficult to treat and may require care from a dermatologist. Treating acne early may help reduce inflammation and the risk of scarring.
Acne by life stage
Acne does not always follow the same pattern throughout life. It may begin during the teenage years, continue into adulthood or develop for the first time later in life or during pregnancy.
Because causes and treatment considerations can vary by life stage, an approach that works for a teenager may not be right for an adult or someone who is pregnant.
Teen acne
Teen acne is common because hormonal changes during puberty can increase oil production. This can contribute to clogged pores and more frequent breakouts.
Early treatment may help manage acne and reduce the risk of lasting scars.
Adult acne
Acne does not always disappear after the teenage years. Adults may continue to have breakouts or develop acne for the first time later in life.
Hormonal changes, stress, genetics and other factors may contribute to adult acne. If breakouts continue despite over-the-counter products, a dermatologist can help determine possible causes and recommend an appropriate acne treatment plan.
Pregnancy acne
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause acne, even if you did not have frequent breakouts before becoming pregnant.
Treatment during pregnancy requires special care because some acne medications and ingredients may not be appropriate during pregnancy. If you develop acne while pregnant, talk with your dermatologist about treatment options that may be appropriate for you.
Acne scarring
Acne can sometimes leave changes behind after a breakout clears. Acne scars may appear as depressions or pits, raised areas or changes in skin texture. Dark spots that remain after acne are different from scars, although they may also take time to fade.
Picking, squeezing or popping acne can increase inflammation and may increase the risk of scarring. It is usually better to let a blemish heal or talk with a dermatologist about treatment.
The right approach to acne scarring depends on the type and severity of the scars, your skin type and other factors. A dermatologist can recommend treatment options based on your individual needs.
Treatment options at Advanced Dermatology, P.C.
There is no single acne treatment that works for everyone. Your dermatologist will consider the type and severity of your acne, your age, skin type and medical history when developing a treatment plan.
Depending on your needs, treatment may include:
- Topical treatments: Creams, gels, lotions or other medications applied directly to the skin may help unclog pores, reduce oil and control inflammation.
- Oral medications: Some patients may benefit from prescription medications taken by mouth to treat acne.
- In-office procedures: Certain procedures may be used to help manage acne or improve the appearance of skin affected by breakouts.
- Laser procedures: Laser treatments may be recommended for some patients as part of an acne or acne-scarring treatment plan.
Your dermatologist may recommend one treatment or a combination of approaches. Your treatment plan may also change over time as your skin responds.
Advanced Dermatology, P.C. also offers cosmetic dermatology services that may be appropriate for certain skin concerns, including changes left behind by acne.
Acne treatment can take time. Following your dermatologist’s recommendations consistently can help support your treatment goals.
Frequently asked questions
When should I see a dermatologist for acne?
Consider seeing a dermatologist if over-the-counter products have not improved your acne, your breakouts are painful or deep, or you are developing acne scars or dark marks.
Professional care may also be helpful if acne keeps returning, seems related to hormonal changes or is affecting your confidence or daily life. A dermatologist can determine the type and severity of your acne and recommend treatment based on your individual needs.
Can acne be cured permanently?
There is no guaranteed permanent cure for acne, but treatment can help control breakouts and reduce the risk of scarring.
Because acne can change over time, your treatment plan may need to change as well. A dermatologist can help you find an approach to manage your symptoms and support your long-term skin health.
What is the best acne treatment for adults?
The best acne treatment depends on the type of acne you have and what may be contributing to your breakouts. Treatment may include topical medications, oral medications, procedures or a combination of approaches.
Hormones, genetics and other factors can contribute to adult acne. Your dermatologist can evaluate your skin and recommend treatment based on your needs.
Does diet affect acne?
Research suggests that certain foods, including high-glycemic foods and dairy products, may be associated with acne for some people. However, diet is only one possible factor, and changing your diet alone may not clear acne.
If you think certain foods may be affecting your skin, talk with your dermatologist. They can help you consider diet along with other possible acne causes and treatment options.
Schedule your acne consultation
If acne keeps coming back, is painful or is leaving marks, a dermatologist can help you understand your breakouts and determine which treatments may be appropriate for your skin.
With more than 40 locations throughout New York and New Jersey, Advanced Dermatology, P.C. makes it easier to find an office near you.
Schedule an appointment with Advanced Dermatology, P.C. to take the next step toward clearer, healthier-looking skin.