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Acne
Acne is a prevalent skin condition resulting from the clogging of pores with oil (sebum) and dead skin cells. Various factors contribute to its development, including lifestyle choices, diet, genetics, and environmental irritants, which can cause different types of acne.
Types of acne and how to treat it
Acne manifests itself in various forms, each with its distinguishing features and levels of severity. At the milder end of the spectrum, we encounter non-inflammatory acne. These are commonly found across various skin types and tend to respond well to over-the-counter treatments.
Progressing to the more troubling forms, inflammatory acne presents as red, swollen bumps called papules. These demand more potent treatment regimens. For individuals dealing with an abundance of oil and clogged pores, often a combination of treatments is required to address the multiple factors contributing to their acne.
Types of acne and how to treat it
Acne manifests itself in various forms, each with its distinguishing features and levels of severity. At the milder end of the spectrum, we encounter non-inflammatory acne. These are commonly found across various skin types and tend to respond well to over-the-counter treatments.
Progressing to the more troubling forms, inflammatory acne presents as red, swollen bumps called papules. These demand more potent treatment regimens. For individuals dealing with an abundance of oil and clogged pores, often a combination of treatments is required to address the multiple factors contributing to their acne.
Acne types
Severe acne
Severe acne distinguishes itself through its intensity and the potential for long-term skin damage. Treatment for severe acne typically requires a different approach, often involving oral medications such as isotretinoin and, potentially, hormonal treatments. It's crucial for those experiencing severe acne to seek professional guidance from dermatologists such as those at Dr Guo Rejuvenation to avoid scarring and reduce flare-ups effectively.
Cystic acne
Cystic acne, marked by large, red, and tender bumps filled with pus, is one of the most severe forms of acne. It arises when the infection lies deep within the skin, leading to painful, inflamed cysts that can result in significant scarring if not treated correctly. Due to its profound impact on skin tissue, a dermatologist's intervention with prescription-strength treatments is typically necessary. Cystic acne often necessitates a long-term and personalized treatment plan to manage and alleviate its symptoms.
Hormonal acne
Hormonal acne, typically linked to hormonal fluctuations, is commonly observed in adults rather than teens. It is prevalent among women and can flare up during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy or the menopause. Hormonal acne often presents as cysts and nodules around the lower face, chin, and jawline. Managing this type of acne might involve lifestyle changes, such as stress management and dietary adjustments, combined with medical treatments. Medical treatments can include topical retinoids, contraceptives for female patients to regulate hormone levels, and other hormone therapies.
Acne types
Severe acne
Severe acne distinguishes itself through its intensity and the potential for long-term skin damage. Treatment for severe acne typically requires a different approach, often involving oral medications such as isotretinoin and, potentially, hormonal treatments. It's crucial for those experiencing severe acne to seek professional guidance from dermatologists such as those at Dr Guo Rejuvenation to avoid scarring and reduce flare-ups effectively.
Cystic acne
Cystic acne, marked by large, red, and tender bumps filled with pus, is one of the most severe forms of acne. It arises when the infection lies deep within the skin, leading to painful, inflamed cysts that can result in significant scarring if not treated correctly. Due to its profound impact on skin tissue, a dermatologist's intervention with prescription-strength treatments is typically necessary. Cystic acne often necessitates a long-term and personalized treatment plan to manage and alleviate its symptoms.
Hormonal acne
Hormonal acne, typically linked to hormonal fluctuations, is commonly observed in adults rather than teens. It is prevalent among women and can flare up during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy or the menopause. Hormonal acne often presents as cysts and nodules around the lower face, chin, and jawline. Managing this type of acne might involve lifestyle changes, such as stress management and dietary adjustments, combined with medical treatments. Medical treatments can include topical retinoids, contraceptives for female patients to regulate hormone levels, and other hormone therapies.
What are the causes of acne
Dead Skin Cells
One of the primary factors contributing to acne is the accumulation of dead skin cells. The natural process of skin renewal is continuous, with new cells replacing the old ones. When these dead skin cells are not adequately shed, they can block excretion of sebum (oil) produced by sebaceous glands. Keeping the skin exfoliated with the right products, such as salicylic acid, can help prevent these clogs from occurring.
Sebaceous Glands
Situated just beneath the skin's surface, the sebaceous glands play a significant role in maintaining healthy skin by producing an oily substance known as sebum. Sebum is essential for lubricating and protecting the skin. However, an overproduction of sebum can lead to problems. When these glands go into overdrive, often triggered by hormonal fluctuations or genetic predispositions, the excess oil can clog the pores, making them a magnet for dead skin cells and bacteria. Balancing sebum production is a pivotal step in managing acne and one that can be achieved with targeted topical creams or, in more severe cases, oral medications.
Hormonal Fluctuations
Hormones have a profound effect on acne development, especially the hormone androgen. During puberty, hormone levels surge, leading to increased size and activity of sebaceous glands. Hormonal fluctuations are not exclusive to adolescence; they can also affect adults, particularly women, due to menstruation cycles, pregnancy, or hormonal disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Certain medications, including birth control pills and hormone therapy, can address the hormonal imbalance that may contribute to acne.
What are the causes of acne
Dead Skin Cells
One of the primary factors contributing to acne is the accumulation of dead skin cells. The natural process of skin renewal is continuous, with new cells replacing the old ones. When these dead skin cells are not adequately shed, they can block excretion of sebum (oil) produced by sebaceous glands. Keeping the skin exfoliated with the right products, such as salicylic acid, can help prevent these clogs from occurring.
Sebaceous Glands
Situated just beneath the skin's surface, the sebaceous glands play a significant role in maintaining healthy skin by producing an oily substance known as sebum. Sebum is essential for lubricating and protecting the skin. However, an overproduction of sebum can lead to problems. When these glands go into overdrive, often triggered by hormonal fluctuations or genetic predispositions, the excess oil can clog the pores, making them a magnet for dead skin cells and bacteria. Balancing sebum production is a pivotal step in managing acne and one that can be achieved with targeted topical creams or, in more severe cases, oral medications.
Hormonal Fluctuations
Hormones have a profound effect on acne development, especially the hormone androgen. During puberty, hormone levels surge, leading to increased size and activity of sebaceous glands. Hormonal fluctuations are not exclusive to adolescence; they can also affect adults, particularly women, due to menstruation cycles, pregnancy, or hormonal disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Certain medications, including birth control pills and hormone therapy, can address the hormonal imbalance that may contribute to acne.
State of the art acne treatment facility
Visit our brand new acne clinic in Calgary with top-of-the-line and cutting-edge technologies and equipment to treat acne causes, and a full spectrum of medical, surgical, cosmetic, and acne laser dermatology.
You can count on short wait times, knowledgeable staff, easy parking, and stringent COVID protocols. Our facility is also one of the largest Mohs Surgical Suites in Canada.
State of the art acne treatment facility
Visit our brand new acne clinic in Calgary with top-of-the-line and cutting-edge technologies and equipment to treat acne causes, and a full spectrum of medical, surgical, cosmetic, and acne laser dermatology.
You can count on short wait times, knowledgeable staff, easy parking, and stringent COVID protocols. Our facility is also one of the largest Mohs Surgical Suites in Canada.
Topical medications for acne
Over-the-counter options
- Salicylic Acid: Helps unclog pores and reduce inflammation.
- Benzoyl Peroxide: Kills acne-causing bacteria and removes excess oil.
- Retinoids: Promote rapid turnover of skin cells to prevent clogged follicles.
Prescription strengths
- Topical Antibiotics: Reduce bacteria and inflammation.
- Prescription Retinoids: Stronger versions for stubborn acne.
- Combination Creams: Fuse several active ingredients for a multifaceted approach.
Topical medications for acne
Over-the-counter options
- Salicylic Acid: Helps unclog pores and reduce inflammation.
- Benzoyl Peroxide: Kills acne-causing bacteria and removes excess oil.
- Retinoids: Promote rapid turnover of skin cells to prevent clogged follicles.
Prescription strengths
- Topical Antibiotics: Reduce bacteria and inflammation.
- Prescription Retinoids: Stronger versions for stubborn acne.
- Combination Creams: Fuse several active ingredients for a multifaceted approach.
Acne products that may help
Is laser good for acne treatment?
Laser treatment
For individuals looking for non-medical treatment alternatives or those dealing with acne scars, laser treatment presents a promising solution.
How laser treatments help
- Reduce Acne: Specific wavelengths target bacteria and reduce oil production.
- Scar Treatment: Help remove damaged skin and promote collagen production.
Types of laser treatments
- Fractional Lasers: Penetrate the skin to stimulate healing from within.
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): Target redness and improve complexion.
- Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): Combines light treatment with a photosensitizing agent for more pronounced results.
Given the differences in skin types and the complex nature of acne, it's imperative to consult with dermatology experts, such as Dr Guo’s team at Rejuvenation Calgary North, to determine the most effective treatment plan for you. Pursuing professional advice ensures a personalized approach to achieving and maintaining that coveted clearer, healthier, and radiant skin.
Dr. Guo’s team fields dermatologists specializing in all kinds of acne treatments. Whether you are sporting blackheads or carrying acne cysts, our doctors can revert your skin to its previous shine and smoothness. The road to clearer skin begins with a call at 403-286-6888 or filling out the online contact form below.
Is laser good for acne treatment?
Laser treatment
For individuals looking for non-medical treatment alternatives or those dealing with acne scars, laser treatment presents a promising solution.
How laser treatments help
- Reduce Acne: Specific wavelengths target bacteria and reduce oil production.
- Scar Treatment: Help remove damaged skin and promote collagen production.
Types of laser treatments
- Fractional Lasers: Penetrate the skin to stimulate healing from within.
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): Target redness and improve complexion.
- Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): Combines light treatment with a photosensitizing agent for more pronounced results.
Given the differences in skin types and the complex nature of acne, it's imperative to consult with dermatology experts, such as Dr Guo’s team at Rejuvenation Calgary North, to determine the most effective treatment plan for you. Pursuing professional advice ensures a personalized approach to achieving and maintaining that coveted clearer, healthier, and radiant skin.
Dr. Guo’s team fields dermatologists specializing in all kinds of acne treatments. Whether you are sporting blackheads or carrying acne cysts, our doctors can revert your skin to its previous shine and smoothness. The road to clearer skin begins with a call at 403-286-6888 or filling out the online contact form below.
Acne frequently asked questions
Opening Hours
Monday & Friday: 8:30am - 3pm
Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday: 7:30am - 3pm
Saturday & Sunday: Closed
Opening times can change, if your appointment is outside of these times please contact the clinic for confirmation.