Acne may be why you don’t have a confident look around your peers. Acne affects many people every year, and they may be persistent; when one goes away, others start to pop up. What effective way to get rid of them than consulting an expert who can recommend Downtown DC acne treatment options? These treatments are very effective in preventing scars and offering you the best results.

What is acne?

This skin condition occurs when there is blockage of your skin pore by the hair, an oily substance, dead skin, and bacteria. The blockages may produce whiteheads, blackheads, nodules, or any other types of pimples. Acne may mostly appear on your face, shoulders, chest, forehead, or upper back. You may have mild acne, which consists of a few pimples, and moderate or severe acne which may cause cysts and nodules.

What may cause acne?

You may develop acne as a result of four major factors, including:

•                     Excess oil production
•                     Clogged hair follicles
•                     Inflammation
•                     Bacteria

Acne may develop mostly in teenagers, but it is also possible to have it at any age. Other causes may be stress and fluctuating hormones.

What are the myths about acne?

There may be factors that have little to do with acne, but we think they are true. These factors may include:

•                     Greasy foods and chocolate cause acne

The two may have very little to no effect at all on acne. There may be diets like skim milk or those with high sugar, which may contribute to acne.

•                     Cosmetics worsen acne

This statement may not be true, especially if you use oil-free makeup.

•                     Hygiene

Dirty skin may not cause acne, but scrubbing your skin too harshly may worsen your acne condition.

What is the diagnosis and treatment for acne?

Your doctor may observe acne in a skin exam session and then ask you questions about your family history of acne. Your doctor may also ask if any stress is affecting you, which may cause your acne to worsen. Your doctor may recommend medications depending on the severity and type of the acne, your age, and your commitment plan. Your doctor may suggest a prescription to help clear your acne. Some treatments may include:

•                     Topical medications

These medications may include retinoid drugs, antibiotics, and azelaic and salicylic acids. These medications may help to prevent the clogging of your follicles. You may need to talk to your doctor before using any medications alongside each other.

•                     Oral medications

Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics that can help treat moderate or severe acne. Your doctor may also suggest oral contraceptives for you as a woman to help with acne associated with your menstrual cycle.

•                     Therapies

The team is highly innovative and may offer you other suggestions involving specialized therapies, including:

         Lasers

         Chemical peels

         Steroids

You may start noticing results in weeks and months before your acne completely clears up. Meanwhile, you may schedule appointments with your doctor to follow up on your treatment until there is an improvement in your skin condition. Make your appointment with Metroderm DC: Medical, Laser, and Aesthetic Dermatology Center today if you have any acne.