Managing Acne in Teens, Young Adults, and Mature Patients

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting millions of people worldwide. While it can be physically painful and emotionally challenging, the right skincare routine and lifestyle adjustments can make a significant difference. This guide will help you understand the causes of acne, how to build an effective skincare routine, and other essential tips for a clearer, healthier complexion.
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What is Acne?

Acne forms when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dirt, and dead skin cells. This can result in whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples. Factors contributing to acne include:
  • Hormones: Particularly during puberty, menstrual cycles, and pregnancy.
  1. Diet: Foods high in sugars and dairy can exacerbate acne for some individuals.
  1. Stress: Anxiety and stress can trigger or worsen acne.
  1. Genetics: A family history can increase your chances.
  1. Skincare products: Using products that are not “non-comedogenic” (i.e., they clog pores) can contribute to acne.

Types of Acne

Understanding the different types of acne can help you choose the right treatment:

Non-inflammatory Acne

  • Blackheads and whiteheads are common types of non-inflammatory acne. These bumps are usually remedied with over-the-counter treatments.

Inflammatory Acne

  • Papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts fall under this category. These can be painful and deep within the skin. Severe inflammatory acne often requires treatment by a dermatologist.

How to Identify Your Skin Type

Knowing your skin type is crucial when selecting acne skincare products. The main skin types are:
  • Oily: Skin appears shiny and greasy, often with enlarged pores and frequent breakouts.
  1. Dry: Skin feels tight, rough, and may be flaky. Breakouts can still occur.
  1. Combination: A mix of oily and dry areas, typically with an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) and dry cheeks.
  1. Sensitive: Skin easily reacts to products, becoming red, irritated, or inflamed.
If you are unsure of your skin type, you can start by taking a simple quiz or consulting a skincare specialist or dermatologist.

Building a Skincare Routine for Acne

A solid skincare routine is one of the best tools to fight acne. Here are a few steps to guide you:

1. Cleansing

Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping your skin of its natural oils. For oily and combination skin, a foaming or gel cleanser works well. For dry and sensitive skin, opt for a hydrating or cream cleanser. Consider trying our sulfate-free, aloe vera-based clarity cleanser.

2. Exfoliating

Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells that can clog pores. Look for chemical exfoliants, such as our refresh exfoliating cleanser, which contains both glycolic and salicylic acid.

3. Moisturizing

Keeping your skin hydrated is crucial, even if you have oily skin. Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer like our clarity moisturizer.

4. Sun Protection

UV damage can increase redness and induce flare-ups. Use a minimum SPF 30 daily to protect your skin, though we recommend SPF 50 for increased protection. Our tinted mineral sunscreen SPF 50 works for all skin types, including acne-prone skin.

Effective Treatment Options for Acne

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Topical Products

  • Benzoyl Peroxide: Reduces inflammation and kills acne-causing bacteria.
  1. Salicylic Acid: Helps unclog pores and reduce swelling.
  1. Retinoids: Promote cell turnover and prevent pore clogging.

Prescription Topical Treatments

  • Retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene): For severe or persistent acne.
  1. Antibiotics (clindamycin, erythromycin): To reduce bacteria and inflammation.

Oral Medications

  • Oral Contraceptives: For hormonal acne in women.
  • Oral Antibiotics: For inflammatory acne for most acne sufferers.
  1. Spironolactone: Reduces oil production and hormonal component of acne.
  1. Isotretinoin (Accutane): For severe, cystic acne under a dermatologist’s supervision.

Light and Laser Therapies

Reduces acne bacteria and inflammation, promotes healing, and reduces the risk of developing acne scars.

Chemical Peels

Removes the top layer of skin to promote the growth of new, smoother skin.

Extractions

Professional removal of whiteheads and blackheads by a dermatologist or licensed skincare professional.

Lifestyle and Dietary Adjustments

Maintain a balanced diet, manage stress, and follow a proper skincare routine.

Consequences of Untreated Acne and Professional Advice

Untreated acne can lead to physical scarring and emotional distress. If you find yourself skipping events or feeling upset about your breakouts, it’s time to see a dermatologist who can help clear up your acne and offer techniques for dealing with acne in a healthy way.

When to Consult a Dermatologist

If you’re not seeing an improvement after 10-12 weeks of using OTC remedies, it’s time to contact a trained professional. A dermatologist can offer targeted treatments tailored to your specific needs.

Our Acne Care Team

Our acne team at Summerlin Dermatology includes dermatologist, nurse practitioners, and aesthetic services experts. We’re here to help you every step of the way with whatever acne condition you are dealing with.

We Offer Solutions

Our experts are seasoned in diagnosing and treating various acne disorders in people of all ages. We offer helpful tips, tricks, and treatment regimens to quell acne and boost your confidence. For more information, call 702-243-4501.
Remember, beautiful skin is within reach! By following these tips and when to consider professional advice, you can manage acne effectively and achieve a healthier, clearer complexion.
Disclosure:
*Note: This website information is not intended as medical advice. For any medical conditions, you should always consult your physician. This information herein is based on medical information and are made for educational purposes only. These remedies and suggestions are not meant to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any illness, disease, condition or symptom.