Acne
Acne affects over 50 million people every year, acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the United States. Acne occurs as the result of clogged sebaceous glands and usually manifests as non-inflammatory or inflammatory acne, typically affecting the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders.
Non-inflammatory Acne
This type of acne includes blackheads, which occur when a pore is clogged, but the top of the pore remains open. In contrast, a whitehead is an obstructed pore where the pore’s surface closes up, resulting in a small bump underneath the skin.
Inflammatory Acne
Inflammatory acne appears as red and swollen pimples, such as papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. This type of acne arises when bacteria causes an infection deep underneath the skin’s surface.
Causes of Acne
In general, acne may be caused or triggered by:
- Hormone fluctuations
- Stress
- Excess oil production
- Menstruation
- Genetics
- Improper cosmetic tools
- Diet
- Medications
- Steroid-induced
Treatment for Acne
From mild to severe acne, our dermatology providers have a variety of treatment methods available to share with you, these may vary from over the counter, prescribed topicals, and/or oral medications. Some prescription medications include:
- Isotretinoin or Accutane
- Antibiotics
- Retinoids
- Azelaic acid
Laser or Light Therapy
We offer an innovative treatment for moderate acne using blue light technology, a customized treatment that targets and destroys the acne-causing P. acnes bacteria in your skin. During each treatment, you sit with your face close to the blue light for approximately 17-20 minutes. The treatment is repeated once to twice weekly for about six weeks. After several treatments, the blue light can help control your acne.
Cascade’s dermatology providers develop a personalized treatment plan to fit each patient’s specific needs, and we also follow each patient’s individual progress over time to guarantee optimal results.
Tips to Prevent Acne
Prevention is always easier than treatment, so the dermatologists at Cascade Eye & Skin Centers recommend the following tips to help impede the development of acne.
- Wash your face no more than twice a day with warm water and a gentle facial cleanser
- Avoid touching your face
- Refrain from using oily makeup products
- Always remove makeup before bed
- Keep your skin moisturized
- Stay hydrated
- Try to limit your anxiety and stress
- Never pop your pimples
- Find our anti acne products at our online store
