Find The Right Acne Treatment For You

Although it is the most common skin condition in the U.S., affecting up to 85% of teenagers and young adults, and a total of 50 million people a year according to the American Academy of Dermatology, many myths still persist around the causes and treatment options for acne. While it does overwhelmingly affect teenagers and younger adults between the ages of 12-24, people of all ages can experience breakouts and acne flareups at any time. Dr. Lynn Anderson, your dermatologist in Tulsa, OK, recommends that acne sufferers work with a dermatologist to develop a personalized skin care and acne treatment routine that helps to clear up acne, minimize scarring, and address the underlying cause of breakouts.

Clearer, Healthier Skin in Tulsa, OK

When oil, dirt and dead skin cells become trapped in a hair follicle under the surface of the skin due to a fully or partially blocked pore, it leads to breakouts. There are four types of skin blemishes:

• Whiteheads
• Blackheads
• Papules
• Pustules

The severity and type of acne breakouts depend on whether the pore is partially or completely blocked, resulting in a blackhead (partial blockage) or whitehead (full blockage). When a blocked pore becomes infected or inflamed, it results in the familiar red and pus-filled pimples that mostly characterize acne. Because everyone's skin is different, successful acne management and treatment varies from person to person.

What Causes Acne?

In general, overactive oil glands increase the risk of blockages in the hair follicle and lead to acne. Other factors like hormonal fluctuations, heredity, stress and certain medications have been associated with acne outbreaks. Standard treatment options include:

• Extraction of blackheads and whiteheads (it is very important that extractions are only performed by a dermatologist or licensed aesthetician to avoid potential infections and scarring)
• Tretinoin
• Benzoyl Peroxide
• Antibiotics

Contact your Dermatologist in Tulsa, OK

Everyone is susceptible to acne flareups and outbreaks from time to time, regardless of age or lifestyle. For more information on the skincare routine and acne treatment option that is best for you, contact Midtown Dermatology by calling (918) 728-3100 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Anderson today.