Acne

What is acne?

Acne is an inflammatory skin condition that occurs when dead skin cells, bacteria, and sebum — a waxy oil the sebaceous glands produce — clog the hair follicles. This blockage triggers an inflammatory response within your pores, causing painful red bumps to form. 

What are the different types of acne?

Pinpointing the type of acne you have is a critical step in determining your treatment. The most common types of acne are:

Blackheads and whiteheads

Blackheads are clogged hair follicles that form toward the skin’s surface and remain open, resulting in a black appearance. Whiteheads occur when the blockage stays beneath the skin’s surface and forms a white bump filled with sebum and dead skin cells.

Papules

Papules are small pink or red bumps that often feel tender to the touch but rarely cause persistent discomfort.

Pustules

Pustules are papules filled with pus. These lesions tend to be more painful than papules and can cause scarring if squeezed or popped.

Nodules

Nodules are painful lesions that form deep beneath the skin’s surface. They don’t contain pus and can take several weeks to heal on their own.

Cysts

The most severe form of acne, cysts are infected nodules that contain pus. Cystic acne can be painful and often requires professional intervention.

What are the main causes of acne?

While hair follicles clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria cause acne, other factors can increase your risk of breakouts. Common risk factors for acne-prone skin include:

• Poor skin care
• Irritating skin care products
• Family history of acne
• Stress
• Hormonal changes (puberty, pregnancy, menopause, etc.)
• Steroids
• Some forms of hormonal birth control
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

While acne during puberty is common, you don’t have to be a teenager to suffer breakouts. Many people experience acne well into adulthood.

How can I clear acne?

Integrated Dermatology of Reno is home to the most effective acne treatments available. Some of the most popular acne treatments available are:

• Omnilux™ light therapy
• Medical-grade skin care
• Facials
• Chemical peels
• Dermabrasion

After a comprehensive skin consultation, the team can create a customized treatment plan that targets your specific type of acne to minimize existing lesions and prevent new breakouts.

Call Integrated Dermatology of Reno or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about acne.