Acne (also known as acne vulgaris) is a common skin condition that affects almost all people at some point in their life but to varying degrees. While it is more common in teenagers, it also affects over 20% of all adults.

What causes acne?

Many factors can contribute to the formation of acne. The underlying issue is the abnormal regulation of cells inside the tiny hair follicles on the face (these follicles don’t produce hair). This leads to the formation of a plugged follicle or a microcomedone. This plug stops the normal outward movement of skin cells and oil (or sebum). When sebum gets trapped in the hair follicles, the follicles become a breeding ground for a type of bacteria that normally lives in the follicles called Propionibacterium acnes. These bacteria produce material that causes inflammation (redness and irritation) and attracts your immune cells. Eventually, this build-up can lead to a ruptured hair follicle and even more inflammation and pain.

What are the different kinds of acne lesions?

Acne can appear in many different forms including:

• Open comedones (blackheads)
• Closed comedones (whiteheads)
• Papules (red bumps)
• Pustules (pus bumps)
• Cysts (painful deep nodules)

Can acne be caused by dirt? Can acne be caused by chocolate or other foods?

No. Acne is not caused by dirt or by foods, these are both myths.

What in-office procedures are used at Brandon Dermatology to maximize acne treatment success?

Prescription medicines and treatments used by our providers, work better than over-the-counter medicines. Acne medications work well but usually take 3-4 weeks to kick in after starting. Prescription acne medications include:

• Topical Antibiotics
  Examples: Benzaclin, Benzamycin, Duac, Acanya, Cleocin (clindamycin), Rosula, Sumaxin
• Topical Retinoids
  Examples: Retin-A (Tretinoin), Tazorac, Differin, Atralin, Epiduo,
• Oral Antibiotics
  Examples: Doryx (Doxycyline), Solodyn, (Minocycline), Azithromycin
• Oral Hormonal Medications
  Examples: Birth Control Pill, Spironolactone
• Accutane (Isotretinoin)

What in-office treatments does your Brandon office offer?

There are many treatments that Brandon Dermatology offers that can help treat acne. Physical treatments performed by dermatologists work well and work fast; usually showing results in less than 2 weeks. These treatments include:

• Photodynamic Acne Therapy
• Blue Light Treatment
• Laser Treatment
• Chemical Peel
• Extractions/Medical Facial

Why is it important to treat acne?

Treating acne is important to prevent scars later in life. Treatment of acne has also been associated with improving self-esteem and improving mental health.