Acne 101

Are you frustrated when you look in the mirror? Do you feel like you need to camouflage or hide your face? Do you avoid participating in social functions because you feel uncomfortable in your skin? Acne is one of the most common diseases we see in our clinic and we want to help. First, however, a little background into what is happening in your skin.

Acne affects a high percentage of our adolescent patients. During adolescence our body starts to develop and change in the way it begins to produce oil (or sebum) from our oil glands. Normally the skin sheds its dead skin cells and sloughs off. When the sebum is produced the dead skin cells stick and get trapped inside the pore. To add fuel to fire a common skin bacteria called P. Acnes gets trapped inside the pore and multplies, which causes inflammation and skin problems and results in cysts and nodules.

There are 5 types of acne lesions that are noted to develop. They are open and closed comedones, papules, pustules, cysts and nodules. Many patients find acne is not limited to the face but also the scalp, neck, back and chest. Furthermore, acne can sometimes painful and itchy. It does not just affect you physically, according to the American Academy of Dermatology there are studies that have proven acne can change your quality of life. These are some of the reported emotional side effects:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Social withdrawal
• Decreased self-esteem
• Reduced self-confidence
• Poor body image
• Embarrassment
• Anger
• Preoccupied with thoughts about acne
• Frustration
• Higher rate of unemployment

At Pinnacle Dermatology: Advancements in Dermatology we are here to take back control over your skin. We have many treatment options available to help you love the skin you’re in! Please call us to schedule an appointment today. Help is right around the corner!