acne Treatment

FIND A LOCATION

SEE A PROVIDER

Book An Appointment

ABOUT ACNE

Acne is a common skin condition caused by the blockage of hair follicles and oil glands by oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. The blocked pores lead to whiteheads, blackheads, inflammatory papules or nodules (red, tender bumps), pustules (pus-filled bumps), and even cysts.

Breakouts can occur at any age but are most common during the teenage years. Hormonal changes, certain medications, and the use of oily or greasy products are some factors that can contribute to breakouts. They most typically occur on the face, chest, back, and shoulders.

Types of acne

Fungal

Occurs when yeast builds up in your hair follicles. These breakouts are often itchy, inflamed, and appear as small, uniform bumps. They commonly show up on the forehead, chest, shoulders, or back and may worsen with heat, sweat, or occlusive products.

Cystic

Causes deep, pus-filled pimples and nodules that form under the skin. These lesions are often painful and slow to resolve, and they carry a higher risk of scarring if left untreated. Early treatment can help reduce both severity and long-term marks.

Hormonal

Affects adults who have an overproduction of sebum that clogs their pores. It often appears around the chin and jawline and may flare during hormonal shifts such as menstrual cycles, stress, or medication changes. These breakouts can be recurring and deeper than typical clogged pores.

Nodular

A severe form of acne that causes pimples on the surface of your skin and tender, nodular lumps under your skin. These bumps are firm, inflamed, and can last for weeks. They usually require professional treatment rather than over-the-counter products.

Treatment Options

At Core Dermatology we believe no two patients are alike. Assessing acne on a case-to-case basis is a critical part of successfully treating the condition. Additionally, treatment times can vary; some patients may need treatment for a few months while others need treatment for years.

There are several ways to treat acne, including topical acne medications, oral prescription medications, chemical peels, and laser therapy.

American Academy of Dermatology