Comprehensive Acne Treatment Options: Restore Your Skin Confidence

Acne is a condition that impacts all ages, genders, and ethnicities. It can be extremely problematic and even sometimes embarrassing for those who struggle with controlling it. Thanks to continued advances in skin care, our team at Reston Aesthetics in Centreville, Virginia, can assist you in finding treatment. Let’s look at what acne is and what can be done to address it.

What is acne?

Acne is a skin condition that develops when debris, including oil and dead skin cells, blocks hair follicles. This results in whiteheads, blackheads, or pimples on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders. Acne can range from mild to severe and might result in physical discomfort and emotional distress.

What exactly causes acne to develop?

Acne primarily results from excess oil production in the skin, hormonal changes during puberty, bacteria buildup, and genetics. Other factors that can contribute to the development of acne include stress levels, diet, certain medications (like steroids or birth control pills), and environmental factors like pollution.

What are the different types of acne?

Acne is not just a single type. Different types of acne may be diagnosed, and each requires recommended treatments. Some of the kinds of acne often seen at our office include:

  • Whiteheads: Small, flesh-colored bumps occur when hair follicles get clogged with oil and dead skin cells. These are closed comedones.
  • Blackheads: Like whiteheads, the pores remain open, and the comedones’ content is oxidized, resulting in a dark appearance.
  • Papules: Inflamed lesions that appear as small red or pink bumps on the skin.
  • Pustules: Similar to papules, these contain pus at their center.
  • Nodular acne: Large, hard, painful lesions deep within the skin.
  • Cystic acne: The most severe form of acne involves large, inflamed cysts deep under the skin’s surface.

How can acne be treated?

Depending on how severe the acne is, there are different treatment options. Mild cases of acne are often well-managed using over-the-counter topical treatments containing specific ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. For more severe cases, prescription medications such as antibiotics, retinoids, or birth control pills may be prescribed. Other treatments, including chemical peels, light-based therapy, or laser therapy, might also be recommended for more stubborn and challenging cases of acne. Lifestyle changes, like maintaining a healthier diet and managing stress levels, also improve the overall appearance and health of the skin.

Who can I call to get help with acne?

Our team at Reston Aesthetics in Centreville, VA, encourages patients with acne to seek treatment to improve their skin’s health while boosting their self-confidence! Call (571) 464-8884 to request an appointment. We are open to new and returning patients and look forward to helping you with your skin care needs!