If you have acne, chances are you’d like to find a treatment solution that works. Look no further than Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax in Fairfax, Virginia. The board-certified dermatologists are skin experts who can provide the treatment you need. To book a skin evaluation, call the friendly staff today or use the online scheduling tool when you’re ready.
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It often results in pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and, in severe cases, cysts.
While acne is typically associated with adolescence, it can also affect people of all ages, causing physical and emotional distress.
The primary cause of acne is the overproduction of sebum, an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. This excess oil, combined with dead skin cells, creates a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to inflammation and acne lesions.
Hormonal changes that occur during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or with medical conditions can contribute to increased sebum production. Additional factors that can cause acne include genetics, diet, stress, and certain medications.
While there’s no one-size-fits-all cause, these factors can influence the severity and persistence of acne.
At Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax, acne can be treated through various methods, depending on its severity. Over-the-counter products containing ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help control mild acne.
Prescription topical medications, such as retinoids and antibiotics, are often recommended for more moderate cases. Oral prescription medications, including antibiotics, hormonal treatments, and isotretinoin, may be prescribed for severe acne that doesn't respond to other treatments.
In addition to traditional treatments, advanced options like photodynamic therapy, chemical peels, and laser therapy are also available. Phototherapy involves using light to activate a photosensitizing agent, targeting and destroying acne-causing bacteria.
Chemical peels remove the top layer of skin, promoting cell turnover and reducing acne, and laser therapy targets sebaceous glands and bacteria to minimize oil production and inflammation.
While complete prevention of acne may be challenging, the following can help:
Consistent and appropriate treatment tailored to your specific skin type and severity of acne, can help effectively manage and minimize the impact of this common skin condition.
If you struggle with acne, call or book an appointment online with Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax professionals today.