Acne is a skin condition that can be a source of angst among pre-teens and adolescents. Although treatable with OTC products severe cases are best helped by acne treatment in Lehigh Valley PA.
What Does Acne Look Like?
Acne can present as pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads that appearing on the face, torso, and shoulders. Pimples are raised red pustules with a center of pus. Whiteheads are clogged pores that are closed. Blackheads are whiteheads that have been exposed to air causing the clogged oil to darken.
What Causes or Exacerbates Acne?
Four factors have been identified with causing acne. These include, hair follicles plugged with debris such as dead skin cells or oil; excessive oil production or buildup; bacteria; and increased hormonal activity. Medications containing lithium, corticosteroids or testosterone can trigger acne. Diets rich in carbohydrates have also been shown to contribute to acne.
What Doesn’t Cause Acne?
There is a belief among some people that consuming greasy food, inadequate hygiene habits, or using cosmetics, causes or worsens acne. There is no evidence to support any of these beliefs, although not thoroughly cleaning the skin of makeup, may contribute to clogged pores.
Acne Treatment
Mild to moderate cases of acne can be treated with the use of OTC products. Gels, lotions and foams may contain either benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or alpha hydroxy acid, which target and kill the bacteria responsible for acne. A dermatologist will advise the best course of treatment. Treatment may consist of topical products similar to the OTC products only at prescription strength. Oral treatments of antibiotics, birth control pills (which target the hormones) or Isotretinoin which is effective against all causes of acne. Other methods of treatment include laser light therapy or chemical peels.
In general, all forms of Acne Treatment in Lehigh Valley PA, take time to treat, often 3 to 5 weeks. However, the treatment is worth the wait, especially when scarring can be avoided. Once the acne clears, your doctor may suggest continued treatment for a brief period to prevent flareups.
