Acne

What is acne?

Acne is a common condition that causes:

• Blackheads
• Whiteheads
• Pimples
• Cysts
• Bumps
• Redness
• Swelling
• Scarring

These symptoms affect the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders, and upper arms. Although acne is most common in teens, adults of any age, and even infants can suffer from acne.

Acne develops because of clogged pores. Clogging could be caused by your skin making too much oil, a buildup of bacteria, or an excess of dead skin cells. When these substances build up in your hair follicles, they form a soft plug that leads to the development of skin lesions.

Acne isn't life-threatening, but it can cause emotional distress and low self-esteem.

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that usually affects the face. It causes redness and small, pus-filled bumps similar to acne. Rosacea usually affects fair-skinned women between 30 and 60 years of age. Men who have rosacea often have more severe symptoms than women.

The causes of rosacea aren't known, but hereditary and environmental factors play a part. Symptoms tend to worsen in response to certain triggers, which might include:

• Hot food or drink
• Alcohol
• Extreme temperatures
• Hot baths
• Sunlight
• Negative emotions
• Vigorous exercise
• Steroid medication

If you have rosacea, you might also get dry, irritated, gritty eyes, and red or swollen eyelids.

How are acne and rosacea treated?

Treatments for acne and rosacea tend to be similar, and could include:

Topical treatments

Topical creams and ointments contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or lactic acid as their active ingredient. For more severe cases, your provider at Honet Dermatology and Cosmetic might prescribe creams or ointments that contain retinoic or azelaic acid as well.

Oral prescription medications

You might need prescription oral antibiotics to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation. Severe acne or rosacea that isn't responding to other treatments might need isotretinoin medication.

Laser therapy and electrosurgery

Laser therapy uses light energy to reduce redness in patients who have rosacea. Electrosurgery using a high-frequency electric current might be needed to remove excess tissue if you have an enlarged, bulbous nose.

If your acne causes scarring, you might benefit from treatments like:

• Dermaplaning
• Microdermabrasion
• DiamondGlow
• Chemical peels
• Nordlys by Candela
• Microneedling
• DiamondGlow (Dermalinfusion)

These cosmetic treatments help to smooth the skin and reduce scarring.Taking good care of your skin is always important, and your provider at Honet Dermatology and Cosmetic can advise you which skincare products are best for your condition. The practice carries leading brands for rosacea and acne treatment, including iS CLINICAL, La Roche-Posay, and Restorsea™.

Call the office to arrange a consultation, or you can request an appointment online.