What are the Signs or Symptoms of Acne?
Acne most commonly appears on the:
- Face and neck
- Back
- Chest
- Shoulders
- Buttocks
It can include blemishes such as:
- Pimples with pus at their tips
- Whiteheads
- Blackheads
- Small red, tender bumps
- Painful lumps underneath your skin’s surface
Other symptoms include:
- Dark spots on the skin where acne has healed
- Permanent scars from more severe acne cysts or nodules
Acne is also known to cause low self-esteem and depression.
What Causes Acne?
Acne appears when oil — the natural oil your skin produces to keep it from drying out — and dead skin cells clog up your pores. This creates an environment where bacteria like to live and multiply. When bacteria get into the clogged pore, it becomes infected and inflamed.
There are also several factors that can either trigger acne or make it worse, including:
- Hormones (due to changes during puberty, pregnancy, or the use of oral contraceptives)
- Certain medications
- Diet
- Stress
Studies have shown that eating dairy products and foods rich in carbohydrates may trigger acne. Additionally, while people often think that eating greasy food can cause pimples, research has shown that this has little to no effect on acne.
How Do You Treat Acne?
There are many different types of acne treatments available. Many people treat mild acne with over-the-counter products, but sometimes these don’t work, and it’s more effective to see a dermatologist like Dr. Bingham who can offer a variety of treatments, including:
- Topical treatments that kill bacteria and reduce oil
- Oral medications that work throughout your body, such as antibiotics, birth control, or Accutane
- Laser treatments or light therapy
- Chemical peels
- Extraction or removal procedures
It can be frustrating to wait for acne to clear on its own, and with early treatment, there’s less of a chance of permanent scarring. Plus, if you continue treatment after your skin clears, it can prevent breakouts in the future.
Dr. Bingham and his staff can help diagnose your acne and find a treatment plan that works for you. Call or book an appointment online to get started on the path to clear skin
