Acne

Acne primarily affects teenagers due to hormonal changes during puberty, but it is not limited to this age group. Many adults experience acne well into their 30s, 40s, or even 50s related to menopause. Factors such as genetics, hormones, and lifestyle can also play a role in the development of acne, which can make it a persistent issue for some individuals.

There are several types of acne, each varying in severity:

1. Blackheads (Open Comedones) – Small, dark spots on the skin caused by clogged pores that remain open to the surface.
2. Whiteheads (Closed Comedones) – Small, white to flesh-colored bumps that form when clogged pores are closed off, trapping oil and bacteria inside.
3. Papules – Small, red, tender bumps that occur when hair follicles are inflamed.
4. Pustules – Pimples that contain pus, appearing as red bumps with white centers.
5. Nodules – Large, painful, solid lumps under the surface of the skin that result from deeper inflammation.
6. Cysts – Painful, pus-filled lumps beneath the skin that can lead to scarring if not treated properly

Several factors contribute to the development of acne, including:

1. Excess Sebum Production – The skin naturally produces oil to keep it hydrated, but when there is an overproduction which happens in adolescence and during menopause, it can clog pores. To reduce sebum production and control acne our expert dermatologists may recommend a combination of topical and oral treatments.
2. Clogged Hair Follicles – Dead skin cells can accumulate in hair follicles and combine with oil, leading to blockages that result in acne. This is why exfoliation is so important.
3. Bacteria – The bacterium Cutibacterium acnes (formerly known as Propionibacterium acnes) thrives in clogged hair follicles and can cause inflammation, contributing to acne.
4. Hormonal Changes – Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or due to conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can lead to increased oil production and acne flare-ups.
5. Genetics – A family history of acne can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
6. Lifestyle Factors – Stress, certain foods, and even skincare or makeup products that are not non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) can contribute to acne breakouts.

At the Palo Alto Dermatology Institute, we understand that acne can impact confidence and quality of life, and we offer a range of effective treatments tailored to individual needs. The goal is to control acne and prevent scarring. Often treatment involves a combination of therapies. Treatment options depend on the severity of the acne and may include:

1. Topical Treatments – Creams, gels, and lotions containing ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinoids, or antibiotics can help reduce oil production, clear blocked pores, and kill acne-causing bacteria.
2. Oral Medications – For moderate to severe acne, oral antibiotics, hormonal treatments (such as birth control pills), or isotretinoin (a potent retinoid) may be prescribed to address the root causes of acne from within.
3. Chemical Peels – Medical-grade peels can help exfoliate the skin, remove dead skin cells, and reduce the appearance of acne scars.
4. TheraClearX Laser and Light Therapy – TheraClearX Laser and blue light treatments can target acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation, leading to clearer skin.
5. Extraction Procedures – For some patients, manual extraction of blackheads or whiteheads may be recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
6. Customized Skincare Routine – Our dermatologists can guide you in selecting the right products for daily skincare, ensuring they are appropriate for acne-prone skin and help prevent future breakouts.