Understanding Acne

Posted on Dec 22nd, 2015

Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting approximately 50 million people. Many are teens and young adults dealing with an influx of oils and hormones during adolescence, but the reality is that acne can affect anyone at any age. Even people who have had clear skin for several years can suddenly experience breakouts.

Acne first appears when pores in the skin clog, often because of a build-up of dead skin cells. People shed dead skin cells everyday, but when paired with an excess of facial oils, skin cells can get trapped inside the pores and become a breeding ground for bacteria. This combination of bacteria and oil in the pores causes the surrounding skin to become irritated and inflamed.

While many people treat acne with over-the-counter products rather than consulting a doctor, it is highly recommended to pay the dermatologist a visit to make sure your specific type of acne does not require special treatment. Failure to do this can result in recurring acne throughout your life and even acne scarring in some cases.

When going in for treatment, it is important to manage your expectations. There is no overnight remedy, but there are many safe and effective treatments that will work if used consistently and as prescribed by your dermatologist.

Gainesville Dermatology specializes in personalized treatment plans for acne patients. Give us a call if you’re interested in knowing more about our practices and procedures to treat your acne.

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