ACNE TREATMENT

Not only can acne be uncomfortable and painful, but it often severely affects the confidence of those who suffer from breakouts. With several different types, severities, and treatment plans for acne, the best first step to take toward clear skin is to visit a professional acne specialist. At West Texas Dermatology Center, we offer numerous services and medical prescriptions that have proven to aid in decreasing acne and breakouts among patients.

Acne can last for years and lead to permanent changes in the skin if it is not treated. Sometimes, acne is not easy to control, and seeking the help of a dermatologist or acne specialist is crucial.

WHAT IS ACNE?

Acne is a skin condition that forms when pores in the skin become clogged with sebum or excess oil. This build-up can result in blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and deeper lumps such as cysts and nodules. Bacteria can grow freely in the pores causing irritation, pain, swelling, and redness.  

Essentially, four major factors cause acne breakouts:

• Genetics

• Hormones

HOW IS ACNE TREATED?

Although there is no immediate cure for acne, professional treatments are much more effective than any over-the-counter treatments. Depending on the severity of your acne, your treatment plan may include: 

• Oral and/or topical antibiotics (to treat infections in your pores)

• Accutane (Isotretinoin)

• Hormonal treatments (for hormonally induced acne breakouts)

• Tretinoin and other Vitamin A Derivatives– Used to unblock whiteheads and blackheads

• Extraction (to remove whiteheads and blackheads)

• Benzoyl peroxide (to reduce hair follicle blockages)

• Topical Dapsone

Often, a combination of these methods are used to achieve the best possible results.

WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE AN ACNE SPECIALIST?

Acne is a very common skin condition, and having a few flare-ups now and again is normal. Mild cases of acne can usually be treated with over-the-counter medications, but if you have noticed that your acne hasn’t gotten better or has even gotten worse, it may be time to see a professional. Suffering from persistent acne will not only cause pain but can significantly affect your confidence. Below are a few signs that it is time to call an acne specialist for help. 

• Acne is Getting Worse: If you have tried over-the-counter medications for months and have seen no changes to your skin, or it has gotten worse, an acne specialist will be able to prescribe medication that will give you better results. 

• Severe & Painful Acne: When you have cystic acne, also known as inflamed acne, it can show in the form of nodules that can be extremely painful and hard to treat. Acne specialists will examine your skin and determine the best treatment plan for you and your acne. 

• Feeling Self-Conscious: If your acne stops you from participating in social activities or makes you feel depressed, you should visit an acne specialist as soon as possible. With the proper treatment, your acne will start to improve in a few short weeks. 

Don’t suffer from acne any longer! Call our acne specialists at West Texas Dermatology Center to schedule an appointment. Our knowledgeable dermatologists will examine your blemishes and will determine an effective treatment plan for you and your acne condition. Contact us today for more information. Our acne specialist welcome those in the Permian Basin.