Acne FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About Acne
While acne is an acceptable four-letter word, it’s still an unpleasant one about which many people don’t like to think. Divine Dermatology specializes in acne treatment at our office in Fort Collins and Loveland, CO, and we’d love to help you clear up your acne or acne scars. Just about everybody has had some acne during their lifetime. It is the most common skin disorder in the world. Even so, there are still quite a few misconceptions about acne. We’ve prepared some answers to acne questions that we hear a lot from our patients. We want you to be informed so that you can treat and manage your acne properly. Please reach out to us if you have any remaining questions or would like to learn what we can do for you and your acne.
Does What I Eat Affect My Acne?
You might have heard that eating greasy foods, dairy or sweets can contribute to acne. For the most part, that’s not true. The main trigger of acne are the hormones that stimulate the oil glands and produce sebum, which clogs or blocks pores. Bacteria grows inside those pores and they become inflamed, resulting in breakouts. Major hormonal changes happen no matter what you eat. Common causes of hormonal changes include the teenage years (puberty) and menstrual cycles. What you eat might impact your acne a bit, though. Studies have found that consuming high amounts simply sugars and non-fat dairy products could increase your severity of acne.
Does Makeup Impact Acne?
Makeup doesn’t necessarily cause acne, but it can impact it. If you suffer from acne, you don’t necessarily need to stop wearing makeup altogether. If you suspect your foundation is causing problem, you might want to try switching to another brand or using a different type of makeup. Don’t forget about other products that may be getting on your face, shampoos, hairsprays or hair gels can be responsible for contributing to breakouts on your forehead and temples. The best thing to do is to look for brands and types of makeup and other cosmetic products that are labeled “noncomedogenic.” That means they won’t clog your pores!
How Important is Washing My Face?
Having acne is rarely a result of an under washed face. In fact, many people with acne actually over-wash their face. Sometimes washing your face too much can make things worse. If you scrub too hard, you could aggravate your acne. Also, certain alcohol-based astringents could be drying your skin too much. With that being said, washing your face with water and a gentle cleanser every night is beneficial. However, most cases of acne require more than just keeping your face clean.
Can Adults Get Acne?
Yes. Acne does not only discriminate based on age. The reason that many teenagers get acne is because their condition is triggered by rising hormones of puberty. You may be experiencing adult acne from hormonal fluctuations due to pregnancy, menstrual cycles, or menopause. You can also develop acne as a side effect from certain hormone-containing medications like birth control and testosterone supplements or other medications like steroids or seizure medication. Some adult men and women will continue to produce acne simply because their genetics cause their pores to clog too easily.
What Acne Treatments Are Available?
There are several acne treatments available based on your age, gender, and severity, among other factors. Mild or moderate cases of acne can be treated with topical creams or gels. Oral antibiotics or hormone controlling medications can be effective for more inflammatory acne. Isotretinoin (accutane) is a helpful tool for very stubborn or very severe acne. Other types of acne therapy can also be used, such as can certain light or photodynamic therapies. Divine Dermatology utilizes a variety of acne treatment methods, so contact us today to schedule a consultation.
When Should I See a Dermatologist for Acne?
If over-the-counter acne treatments and gentle face washing doesn’t work for you, it’s a good time to schedule an appointment with us. Cases of severe acne require a more aggressive treatment plan to prevent acne scars from occurring. We can determine the best method for treating your acne at our office in Fort Collins and Loveland, CO.
Are Acne and Rosacea The Same Thing?
No. The appearances of acne and rosacea can be very similar, but they are not the same skin condition. Rosacea tends to impact people in their 30s or 40s and beyond. Rosacea is more likely to produce a rose-color look from redness, flushing, and broken blood vessels. You can get pimple-like bumps on the nose and cheeks but they usually don’t come to a head and can not be popped. If you are not sure which condition you are dealing with, our experienced dermatologists can diagnose and treat your skin condition at our offices near Loveland and Fort Collins, CO.
Acne Treatment in Fort Collins and Loveland, CO
At Divine Dermatology, we’ve treated thousands of patients with acne, and we can do the same for you. You’ll meet with a skin doctor that can determine the best acne treatment for you based on your individual needs. Whether it’s acne medication, cystic acne treatment, or acne scar removal, you’ll be looking better and regaining your self-confidence in little to no time at all. Schedule an appointment with us today!