While most people assume that acne is purely an issue in your teenage years, the truth of the matter is that acne can actually affect you no matter what age you might be. In fact, according to recent statistics, over 55% of women, above the age of 25, suffer from one form of acne or another! And in total, about 48% of the entire US population is currently dealing with some type of acne issue. Thankfully for all of us, for every form of acne, there is a number of different treatment options. At Bayside Dermatology, Dr. Zuckerman, considered to be the best dermatologist Queens has in practice, they specialize in the treatment of all forms of acne – and have even devised a specific treatment guide to handle each and every one. To better help you to understand and identify your specific acne issues, here are some important facts about each type of acne issue.
Before we get into the different types of acne, lets first discuss how exactly acne comes about in the first place. Considered to be the best dermatologist Queens has to offer, Dr. Zuckerman treats countless patients from all over the city – and in his experience more adults are experiencing acne breakouts than ever before. despite these surges in acne cases however, the causes behind them are still somewhat of a mystery to us. There are a number of different theories that are gaining traction amongst dermatologists. One of the most common causes of acne, especially in women, are hormonal fluctuations – especially during transitional phases such as puberty or pregnancy. Another one of the main causes, in both men and women is stress. In pretty much every aspect of healthcare, mental stress can adversely affect patients, bringing about a variety of different diseases and conditions, with some of the worst symptoms around. This shows the power of the mind, as in many instances no other reasoning for acne breakouts exist. Aside from just stress, other major causes include poor hygiene, rosacea, and side effects from medication. Generally, as a result of bad hygiene, the pores will be filled with dirt, debris, and oil known as sebum. Once this occurs and the pores are clogged, a pimple, blackhead or whitehead will form. This is a sign of an infection on the skin’s surface. This is why exfoliation and clearing the pores is so important.
Now that we understand how acne begins, it is important to understand the different types of acne – as this will help us find adequate treatment methods. The main method of categorizing acne is inflammatory and non-inflammatory. When it comes to non-inflammatory acne, there is no significant redness or inflammation, only whiteheads or blackheads. However, with inflammatory acne the following elements exist:
- Papules: Red or pink bumps that vary in size, with little to no fluid inside – generally they are painless unless someone tries to pop or poke one.
- Pustules: The form of acne generally goes far deeper into the skin that papules, and appear to have yellowish clear pus erupting from within.
- Nodules: these are large, often painful bumps filled with blood and pus.
- Nodules: these are large, often painful bumps filled with blood and pus.
For each form of acne, once you understand the types of issues and symptoms you are dealing with, it is important to seek out the proper acne treatment. At Bayside Dermatology, Dr. Zuckerman, the best dermatologist Queens patients trust for acne treatment, offers these important treatment methods for each form of acne.
- Non-Inflammatory – Generally requires salicylic acid, and OTC cleansers such as benzoyl peroxide, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and adapalene.
- Hormonal Acne – Most commonly this type of acne will disappear when your hormones regulate but to treat your hormones you might need birth control pills or medications such as Accutane (for severe acne).
- Inflammatory Acne – With severe cysts and nodules, you will often need high potency medication like antibiotics, topical retinoids and isotretinoin.
For more information on all forms of acne, and acne treatment contact Bayside Dermatology today.
