Acne

Acne is a painful and often embarrassing skin condition that affects millions of American teenagers and adults. If you struggle with persistent breakouts, board-certified dermatologist and highly experienced Mohs surgeon Walter Williams, MD, can develop a personalized treatment plan at Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center in Clarkson, Washington. Call the dermatology clinic or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.

What is acne?

Acne is a skin condition that causes inflammatory bumps. These red or pink bumps can appear nearly anywhere on the body, particularly on the face, chest, back, and shoulders. Acne can be painful and uncomfortable, diminishing your confidence and self-esteem. Without treatment, it can even leave stubborn dark spots and scars.

Are there different types of acne?

Many types of acne can affect your skin, including:

Blackheads

Blackheads are open pores, or comedones, that form small black centers. While they resemble specks of dirt, blackheads actually draw their appearance from oxidized melanin (the skin’s pigment).

Whiteheads

Whiteheads form closed comedones. They’re clogged with oil and dead skin cells, which cause small white bumps to develop on their surface.

Papules

These raised bumps can appear pink, red, or skin-colored. They usually don’t hurt and tend to respond well to over-the-counter treatments.

Pustules

Pustules are papules that contain white or yellow pus. These lesions can be uncomfortable and tender. 

Nodules

Nodules are inflammatory acne that develops deep in the skin. They can take several weeks to resolve and don’t respond to topical treatments.

Cysts

Cysts are deep painful lesions. They’re the most severe and long-lasting form of inflammatory acne. These nodules contain bacteria-filled pus. They usually require professional treatment to avoid pain, infection, and scarring.

You can have multiple types of acne. With personalized treatment plans, Dr. Williams can effectively target each type you have.

Does everybody get acne?

Most people get acne as teenagers, but genetics and hormones play a crucial role in its development, longevity, and severity. Some people experience breakouts during their 20s, 30s, and 40s. Common acne triggers include:

• Stress
• Oily skin or hair products
• Corticosteroids, testosterone, and other medications
• Simple carbohydrates (chips, bread, bagels, etc.)

Clogged sebaceous glands directly cause acne. Some people produce excess sebum (an oily substance that lubricates the skin), which can increase their risk of recurrent breakouts.

I have acne. What are my treatment options?

Dr. Williams works with you to develop an individualized treatment plan for acne. After a comprehensive skin evaluation, he may recommend:

• Topical tetracycline
• Oral antibiotics
• Oral contraceptives
• Isotretinoin (Accutane®)
• Androgen-blocking medications

A combined approach is typically most effective at treating acne. Call Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.