Although a common skin condition, acne can sometimes feel like a curse—especially before a night out with friends or job interview. Acne occurs when our pores become plugged. And what’s worse is blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and deeper lumps (i.e. cysts or nodules) can occur anywhere—our face, neck, chest, back, shoulders, and upper arms—causing us to feel self-conscious and embarrassed about our skin.
So, why do we break out? There are multiple reasons why acne doesn’t discriminate against age groups. Whether you’re a teen or adult in your 30s or 40s, you may be experiencing an outbreak for such reasons as:
Aside from these common causes of acne, the type of acne skin care product you’re using may be contributing to your skin condition or even worsening it.
The Trouble with OTC Acne-Fighting Products:
There are countless OTC skin care products on the market that claim to fight acne and give you clearer skin. Top brands typically include one of the following ingredients: benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), and sulfur. These ingredients, although effective for moderate acne, work differently on each individual’s skin type (i.e. dry, oily, combination skin).
The truth is, successful acne treatment takes time and education. For example, if you don’t understand whether benzoyl peroxide is best for pimples or blackheads, then you may be selecting the wrong product to help combat your reoccurring breakouts. This wastes time, and the longer acne is left untreated or improperly treated, the more risk there is of permanent skin damage in the form of dark spots or acne scars.
How to Take Control of Your Acne Treatment for Best Results:
When it comes to fighting acne and improving your skin’s health, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. At Pinnacle Dermatology, our dedicated dermatologist, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, and aestheticians will create a customized skin care treatment plan for your individual skin type. From medical-grade skin care products to cosmetic dermatology procedures, we’ll help you find the best treatment options to combat acne and achieve beautiful, healthy-looking skin.
Ready to take charge of your acne breakouts? Find a Pinnacle Dermatology location near you!