Acne

Acne is the most common skin disorder in the United States. Although not life-threatening, acne causes emotional distress and may leave long-lasting scars. The team of highly skilled dermatologists at Redwood Empire Dermatology in Healdsburg, Santa Rosa, and Oakmont, California, takes a personalized approach to acne care. They design plans that clear up your blemishes, reduce the risk of scarring, and improve the overall look of your skin. For expert acne care, call the office or book an appointment online today.

What is acne?

Acne is a skin condition that develops when dead skin cells, oil, and dirt block the pores in the skin. It’s a common skin condition that affects millions of people every year. Though it’s most common during puberty, anyone can develop acne at any age. 

The skin condition results from an increase in androgen hormones, which become active during puberty. These hormones trigger the oil glands to produce more oil. 

The excess oil weighs down the skin cells, trapping them in the pore. When bacteria from the skin’s surface falls into the pore, acne appears.

What are the types of acne?

There are many types of acne. Redwood Empire Dermatology treats acne based on type. These types include:

Blackheads

Blackheads are open pores filled with oil and dead skin cells. Though blackheads look like dirt-filled pores, they’re not. They appear black because of how the light reflects off the open pore.

Whiteheads

Whiteheads are closed pores filled with oil and dead skin cells that form a bump under the skin. 

Papules

A papule, or pimple, is an inflamed whitehead.  

Pustules

Pustules are papules filled with pus. They also have rings of redness around the bump.

Nodules 

Solid pimples that form deep under the skin are nodules. Nodules cause pain and may leave permanent acne scars.

Cysts

Cysts are pus-filled nodules.

When should I get dermatology care for acne?

Though you can treat mild acne with over-the-counter (OTC) skin care products, you should schedule a consultation at Redwood Empire Dermatology if you have moderate or severe acne. The team also recommends coming in for dermatology care if OTC acne products fail to improve your blemishes.

When you come to the office for an acne evaluation, your dermatologist closely examines your skin. They ask detailed questions about your medical history and the types of products you’ve tried to clear up your acne.

What are the treatment options for acne?

The Redwood Empire Dermatology team customizes your acne treatment plan based on the severity of your skin condition. Treatment might include:

• Topical medication
• Topical antibiotics
• Oral antibiotics
• Targeted hormone therapy
• Isotretinoin (Accutane)

The team at Redwood Empire Dermatology works closely with you to help you get clearer skin within 3 months.

Redwood Empire Dermatology also treats acne scars.

To get help with your acne, call Redwood Empire Dermatology or schedule an appointment online today.

We treat patients for Acne, Botox, and Fillers located in Santa Rosa, Ca. Call us to book your appointment today.