Acne – It Doesn’t Stop After Puberty
Adolescence can be a time of physical and emotional turmoil. The raging hormones cause dramatic changes in our bodies, voices and skin. During this frail time, acne is a big battle we faced, but as it turns out it doesn’t stop with puberty.
Acne is a skin disease that occurs when testosterone levels in men and women increase. Acne sufferers must deal with scaly red skin, blackheads, whiteheads, pinheads, pimples and scarring. The areas of the body where sweat collects tend to be most affected by acne symptoms – areas such as the face, arm-pit area and groin.
Skin contains holes, or pores, that release oil through a follicle or small canal. When follicles get blocked, oil under the skin accumulates and forms a pimple. Treatments for acne aim to manage it in four different ways including: maintaining oil production, killing acne, anti-inflammatory effects and hormonal manipulation. For mild acne, most patients will first try over-the-counter topical creams that contain Benzoyl Peroxide, a compound that helps prevent the formation of clogged hair follicles. Use of these types of creams can increase sensitivity to the sun so users are advised to use sunscreen during treatment.
If you are experiencing more severe symptoms of acne, you should consult one of our dermatologists to discuss different treatment options. There are antibiotics and stronger compounds such as salicylic acid that may help with symptoms. For females, acne can be improved with the use of oral contraceptives. Call us today to see which option will be best for you!
If you have any questions about acne or about changes in your skin, please call us today at 865-690-9467. Skin health is an important part of total body wellness. Schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.
