Dermal fillers are popular for a reason. They’re simple, and they give you an instantly younger look. Plumping skin by replacing volume that’s lost through aging, fillers enhance skin hydration and smooth the look of lines and wrinkles.
You may have been under the common misconception that acne ends with your teenage years, but more and more often, acne seems to keep up its assault on people’s complexion, and confidence, well into their 30’s, 40’s, and beyond.
These types of breakouts aren’t limited to the occasional pimple, either. A growing number of teens and adults are seeking treatment for their acne — both the non-inflammatory and inflammatory type.
Acne continues to be the most common skin condition in the United States, with over 50 million sufferers each year. Dermatologists, like Dr. Samuel Pruden of SkinMD, find customized treatment geared toward the individual patient’s needs can help to heal and get rid of acne for good.
Dr. Pruden combines certain products and treatments to address your mild to severe acne, as well as follow-up treatment that gets rid of the appearance of scars and discoloration left behind.
As stated, there are two types of acne. Non-Inflammatory acne is characterized by common blackheads and whiteheads. It usually doesn’t cause swelling, unless you tamper with your pimples and cause an infection. These bothersome eruptions are typically the result of clogged pores and an overproduction of sebum, the oil that keeps skin lubricated.
In blackheads, the pores remain open, though clogged by dirt and dead skin cells. The clogged pores in whiteheads close over, creating the classic bump associated with pimples. The best over-the-counter (OTC) treatment for this type of non-inflammatory acne is salicylic acid.
Products containing this ingredient work to exfoliate the skin, and remove the dead cells before they have the opportunity to clog pores. This type of treatment can help you control your breakouts.
Other products that show extremely successful results in controlling and preventing non-inflammatory acne are topical retinoids. These products are available in over-the-counter and prescription strength. Ask Dr. Pruden which type of retinoid is right for your non-inflammatory acne.
Inflammatory acne is caused by a bacterial infection and is very difficult to control. It’s characterized by deep, painful bumps that are tender to the touch and red and swollen in appearance.
Inflammatory acne presents in papule, which are hard, clogged pores caused by the breakdown of the walls of your pores. Inflammation can also cause pustules, which are pus-filled, protruding bumps with yellow or white heads.
Nodules are another complication of inflammatory acne and occur deep beneath the skin’s surface. These infected and swollen clogged pores are not treatable at home. If you suspect you have nodules, or any other type of ongoing inflammatory acne, you will likely need prescription medication, either oral or topical.
Cysts are a serious risk of inflammatory acne. These large bumps are either red or white, and are caused by an infection that can be quite severe. Cysts are painful, and go even deeper than nodules. Cysts are much more likely to leave behind scars. They require medical attention to heal.
While some acne, such as mild whiteheads and blackheads, is controllable by using OTC treatment, more severe acne requires prescription intervention. Dr. Pruden recommends many different products, created specifically for your individual kind of acne.
Topical medications can combat the bacteria that causes inflammation, and bring you relief. Oral antibiotics will kill the infection and allow your body to heal. Accutane is quite successful when other products fail to clear up your acne for good.
Whether you’re in your teens, or much beyond, you don’t have to live with the embarrassment and pain of acne. Attempting to control your mild breakouts with over-the-counter products is fine, but living an acne-free life is even better.
Contact SkinMD and find out more about your custom treatment options. Our office is conveniently located in Lexington, Kentucky. We look forward to helping you restore your healthy complexion and improving your confidence.
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