Acne

While acne is a common skin condition affecting about 80% of people, you don’t have to live with pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. At Atlantic Dermatology in Longs, South Carolina, experienced dermatologist Kenneth Warrick, MD, FAAD, and his skilled staff offer highly effective acne treatments to give you the clear, gorgeous skin you deserve. Call the office today to schedule an appointment or use the online booking feature.

What is acne?

Acne results when hair follicles become clogged with dead skin cells or oil. While not a cause for concern, acne can be irritating and make you feel self-conscious. Various things contribute to developing acne. See the Atlantic Dermatology providers at the first sign of severe, ongoing, or bothersome acne.

What are the symptoms of acne?

The most common symptoms of acne include:

• Pimples
• Whiteheads
• Blackheads
• Painful lumps
• Red bumps
• Pus-filled lumps
• Tender bumps

Acne usually develops on the face. But it can appear on your upper back, shoulders, chest, and other areas of your body.

What causes acne?

Common causes and risk factors for acne include:

• Bacteria
• Inflammation
• Excess oil production
• Clogged hair follicles
• Some medications
• Hormonal changes
• Stress
• Eating certain foods
• Family history of acne
• Being a teenager
• Pregnancy
• Skin friction
• Greasy or oily substances

If left untreated, acne can cause scarring and hyperpigmentation. Keeping your skin clean can reduce the risk of acne. But you can’t necessarily avoid it if you’re prone to acne — unless you get treated for it by a dermatologist.

How does my doctor diagnose acne?

To diagnose acne and develop an effective treatment, your dermatologist reviews your medical history and examines your skin. Before personalizing a treatment plan, they also discuss your desired outcome and treatment preferences. Depending on your skin type and symptoms, you could be a candidate for more than one dermatology treatment for acne.

How is acne treated?

Many treatments can effectively eliminate acne. Your Atlantic Dermatology specialist might recommend topical or oral medications to clear up the acne. You might also try chemical peels, light therapy, drainage, extraction, or injections. Changing your skin care routine is another way to reduce acne.

You might require more than one type of acne treatment to reap highly effective results. Your dermatologist works with you to develop a treatment that suits your needs and follows up with you periodically to ensure the treatment works the way it’s designed. They can change your treatment plan to provide long-lasting, clear, healthy skin.

Call the Atlantic Dermatology office today or schedule an appointment online to be treated for acne.