Acne Treatment St. Louis

Woman concerned about her acne while looking in the mirror

Our customized acne treatments are developed by our dermatologists and utilize the latest technologies to address all stages of acne, including scarring. As the most common skin condition affecting 80% of the population, acne is not limited to teenagers, as many adults in St. Louis also suffer from acne outbreaks. To achieve clear skin, seek the help of one of our dermatologists conveniently located at Missouri Baptist Medical Center.

Overview of Acne

What is acne?

Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. This can cause the formation of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and other types of blemishes on the face, neck, chest, and back. Hormonal changes, genetics, and certain medications can also contribute to the development of acne. It is a chronic condition that can have physical and emotional effects on those who suffer from it.

What are the types of acne?

There are several different types of acne, including:

Whiteheads: Small, round, and white in color, these are closed comedones, which means that the pore is closed and the top of the pimple is white.
Blackheads: These are also comedones, but the pore is open, which causes the top of the pimple to be black.
Papules: These are small, red, and tender bumps that can appear on the skin.
Pustules: These are similar to papules, but they have a white or yellow center that is filled with pus.
Nodules: These are large, hard bumps that form deep within the skin and can be painful.
Cysts: These are large, pus-filled lumps that form deep within the skin and can cause severe inflammation.
Conglobate Acne: This is a severe form of acne that involves a combination of nodules, cysts, and pustules.

Who does acne most commonly affect?

Acne most commonly affects teenagers and young adults, but it can occur at any age. Acne is most common in people between the ages of 12 and 25, but it can also affect older adults. Acne is also more common in individuals with oily skin, and people with a family history of acne are also more likely to develop it. Acne can affect both men and women, but it is more common in men.

How prevalent is acne?

Acne is a very common condition that affects many people. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, with an estimated 50 million people affected each year. Acne is most common among teenagers and young adults, but it can occur at any age. It is estimated that 80% of people between the ages of 11 and 30 have acne to some degree.

Where is acne commonly located?

Acne commonly appears on the face, but it can also appear on other parts of the body, such as the neck, chest, and back. The face is the most common area affected by acne because it has the most sebaceous glands, which produce oil. This oil can mix with dead skin cells and clog pores, leading to the development of acne. The chest and back are also common areas for acne to appear because these areas have a large number of sebaceous glands as well.

Symptoms and Causes

What are the symptoms of acne?

The physical symptoms of acne include:

Pimples: These are small, red or white bumps that can be filled with pus.
Blackheads: These are small, dark-colored bumps that appear on the skin.
Whiteheads: These are small, white bumps that appear on the skin.
Papules: These are small, red, and tender bumps that can appear on the skin.
Pustules: These are similar to papules, but they have a white or yellow center that is filled with pus.
Nodules: These are large, hard bumps that form deep within the skin and can be painful.
Cysts: These are large, pus-filled lumps that form deep within the skin and can cause severe inflammation.
Scarring: Acne can cause scarring that can be both physical and emotional.
Redness and Inflammation: Acne can cause redness and inflammation in the affected areas.
Dryness: Acne medication can cause dryness to the skin.

It's important to note that not all individuals with acne will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary from person to person.

What causes acne?

Acne is caused by a combination of factors, including:

Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during puberty, pregnancy, and menstrual cycles, can lead to an increase in oil production and the development of acne.
Genetics: Acne can run in families, and people with a family history of acne are more likely to develop it.
Bacteria: A type of bacteria called Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) can contribute to the development of acne by causing inflammation in the hair follicles.
Hair and skin products: Certain hair and skin products can clog pores and contribute to the development of acne.
Medications: Certain medications, such as steroids, can cause acne as a side effect.
Diet: Some studies suggest that diet may play a role in the development of acne, but the evidence is not conclusive.

It's important to note that acne is a complex condition that is influenced by multiple factors, and the specific cause of acne can vary from person to person.

What are the triggers of acne?

There are several common triggers of acne, including:

Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during puberty, pregnancy, and menstrual cycles, can lead to an increase in oil production and the development of acne.
Stress: Stress can lead to an increase in the production of certain hormones, such as cortisol, which can contribute to the development of acne.
Diet: Some studies suggest that diet may play a role in the development of acne, but the evidence is not conclusive.
Cosmetics: Some cosmetics, such as heavy makeup and hair products, can clog pores and contribute to the development of acne.
Exposure to heat and humidity: Exposure to high temperatures and humidity can lead to an increase in oil production and the development of acne.
Certain medications: Certain medications, such as steroids and lithium, can cause acne as a side effect.
Touching the face: Touching the face with dirty hands can transfer bacteria and oil to the face and contribute to the development of acne.

What foods can cause acne?

There is some evidence to suggest that certain foods may contribute to the development of acne. These include:

Dairy products: Studies have shown that a diet high in milk and other dairy products can increase the risk of developing acne.
High-glycemic-index (GI) foods: Foods with a high GI, such as white bread, pasta, and sweets, cause a rapid increase in blood sugar, which can lead to an increase in oil production and the development of acne.
Processed foods: Processed foods are often high in sugar, fat, and preservatives, which can contribute to the development of acne.
Chocolate: Some studies have suggested that chocolate may contribute to the development of acne, but more research is needed to confirm this.
Fried and greasy foods: A diet high in fried and greasy foods can contribute to the development of acne.

What foods can improve acne?

There is some evidence to suggest that certain foods may improve acne.

These include:

Fish and fish oil: Foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and other fatty fish, as well as fish oil supplements, may help to reduce inflammation and improve acne.
Leafy greens: Leafy greens, such as spinach and broccoli, are high in vitamins and minerals that can help to improve skin health and reduce the risk of acne.
Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables that are high in antioxidants, such as berries and leafy greens, may help to reduce inflammation and improve acne.
Probiotics: Foods that are high in probiotics, such as yogurt and kefir, may help to improve gut health and reduce the risk of acne.
Whole grains: Whole grains, such as brown rice and quinoa, are high in nutrients and have a lower glycemic index (GI) than refined grains, which may help to improve acne.

Diagnosis of Acne

How is acne diagnosed?

Acne is usually diagnosed by a dermatologist, a medical doctor who specializes in the treatment of skin conditions. At Mid-County Dermatology, our dermatologists, Dr. Feigenbaum and Dr. Gibstine, will typically perform a physical examination of the skin and ask the patient about their medical history and any symptoms they may be experiencing. They may also ask about any medications the patient is taking and any skincare products they are using.

During the physical examination, the dermatologist will look for the presence of blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and other types of blemishes. They will also check for any signs of scarring or discoloration, which can be a result of previous acne.

In some cases, the dermatologist may take a sample of skin or pus to perform laboratory testing. This can help to rule out other conditions that may resemble acne, such as rosacea, and to identify the type of bacteria present on the skin.

It's important to note that, while a dermatologist can often diagnose acne with a physical examination, there are other skin conditions that can also cause similar symptoms, so it's important to see a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What are some conditions that mimic acne?

There are several skin conditions that can mimic acne and cause similar symptoms, including:

Rosacea: A chronic skin condition that causes redness, inflammation, and visible blood vessels on the face.
Folliculitis: An infection of the hair follicles that can cause red, itchy, and painful bumps on the skin.
Perioral dermatitis: A rash that appears around the mouth and can cause red, bumpy, and scaly skin.
Hidradenitis suppurativa: A chronic skin condition that causes painful lumps and abscesses in the armpits, groin, and under the breasts.
Keratosis pilaris: A condition that causes small, hard bumps on the skin, most commonly on the arms and legs.
Pseudofolliculitis barbae: A condition that causes small, red, and itchy bumps on the skin, most commonly on the beard area in men.

Management and Treatment of Acne

How is acne treated?

Acne is a chronic condition that can be treated with a combination of topical and oral medications, as well as lifestyle changes. The specific treatment plan will depend on the type, severity, and location of the acne, as well as the individual's overall health and medical history.

Topical treatments for acne include:

Retinoids: These medications, such as tretinoin, adapalene, and tazarotene, are derived from vitamin A and help to unclog pores and reduce the formation of blackheads and whiteheads.
Antibiotics: Topical antibiotics, such as clindamycin and erythromycin, help to reduce the number of bacteria on the skin and reduce inflammation.
Benzoyl peroxide: This over-the-counter medication helps to unclog pores, reduce the number of bacteria on the skin, and reduce inflammation.
Salicylic acid: This over-the-counter medication helps to unclog pores and reduce the formation of blackheads and whiteheads.

Oral medications for acne include:

Antibiotics: Oral antibiotics, such as tetracyclines, macrolides, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, help to reduce the number of bacteria on the skin and reduce inflammation.
Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy, such as oral contraceptives, can be used to regulate hormonal fluctuations that can contribute to the development of acne.
Isotretinoin: This oral medication, also known as Accutane, is a powerful retinoid that helps to unclog pores, reduce the formation of blackheads and whiteheads, and reduce the number of bacteria on the skin.

Lifestyle changes can also be helpful in managing acne:

Keeping the skin clean: Gently washing the affected area with a mild cleanser twice a day can help to remove excess oil and bacteria.
Avoiding certain skincare products: Heavy makeup, oils, and other pore-clogging products can contribute to the development of acne.
Avoiding certain foods: Some foods, such as dairy products and high-glycemic-index (GI) foods, may contribute to the development of acne.
Managing stress: Stress can lead to an increase in the production of certain hormones that can contribute to the development of acne.

It's important to work with a board-certified dermatologist to develop a personalized treatment plan that takes into account the individual's unique needs and preferences. Acne treatment can take time to be effective and it's important to be patient and consistent with the treatment plan. The dermatologist will also regularly monitor the treatment's progress and make adjustments as necessary.

How long does it take for acne to clear?

The length of time it takes for acne to go away can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition, as well as the individual's response to treatment. In general, most people will see improvement in their acne within 4-6 weeks of starting treatment.

Mild to moderate acne, characterized by a few blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples, can often be effectively treated with over-the-counter medications and lifestyle changes. In these cases, the acne may start to improve within a few weeks and should be cleared up within a few months.

Severe acne, characterized by large numbers of blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and cysts, may require prescription medications and can take longer to improve. In these cases, it may take several months to see improvement and up to a year to achieve clear skin.

It's important to note that, in some cases, acne may be a chronic condition that requires ongoing treatment to manage. Also, it's important to follow the treatment plan as prescribed by the dermatologist, even if improvement is seen, to avoid relapse and to get the best results.

Prevention of Acne

How can I prevent acne?

Here are a few tips that can help to prevent acne and acne flare-ups:

Keeping the skin clean: Gently washing the face twice a day with a mild cleanser can help to remove excess oil and bacteria. It's important to avoid over-washing and scrubbing the skin, as this can irritate the skin and make acne worse.
Avoiding certain skincare products: Heavy makeup, oils, and other pore-clogging products can contribute to the development of acne. It's important to choose non-comedogenic and oil-free products, and to remove makeup before going to bed.
Avoiding certain foods: Some foods, such as dairy products and high-glycemic-index (GI) foods, may contribute to the development of acne. It's important to maintain a healthy and balanced diet that is low in sugar, processed foods, and saturated fats.
Managing stress: Stress can lead to an increase in the production of certain hormones that can contribute to the development of acne. It's important to find ways to manage stress, such as through exercise, meditation, or yoga.
Protecting the skin from the sun: Sun exposure can worsen acne and increase the risk of scarring. It's important to use a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 and to avoid prolonged sun exposure.

Prognosis of Acne

What can I expect if I have acne?

Acne is a condition that may appear during teenage years and early adulthood, but it can also persist and affect people throughout adulthood. It's important to work with a board-certified dermatologist to find the best treatment plan that targets the underlying causes of your acne. Several medications and therapies are available, and it may take some trial and error to find the one that works best for you. Keep in mind that different people may respond differently to treatments, so what works for one person may not work for another with similar symptoms.

Can acne cause scars?

Acne can lead to scarring when the condition goes beyond the surface of the skin, causing damage to the deeper layers. Inflammation and breakdown of pore walls can cause scarring. It is normal to feel anxious about scarring. A board-certified dermatologist will assess the type of acne and the scarring before providing a treatment plan. There are several treatment options available for acne scars, including topical creams, laser therapy, microneedling, chemical peels, and surgery.

What is the impact of acne on my mental health?

Acne can have a significant impact on one's mental health, as it can affect one's self-image and self-esteem. The development of acne can often be out of one's control, particularly if it is caused by hormones. This can lead to stress, which can further exacerbate the condition. Acne can be particularly challenging for teenagers and young adults. If the symptoms of acne are causing anxiety or preventing you from participating in social activities, it's important to speak with a healthcare provider or mental health professional for support.

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If you have acne in the St. Louis area and are seeking treatment, reach out to us at 314-994-0200 and one of our board-certified dermatologists can help you get clear, healthy skin that is acne-free.

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