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FAQ’s
What causes acne?
Acne is caused by three interrelated factors:
- Overactivity of the sebaceous (oil) glands. These abnormal oil glands tend to be overly sensitive to hormone production…which causes even more oil...which makes the problem worse.
- Excessive growth and insufficient shedding of skin cells. This tends to clog the pores and cause blackheads and whiteheads to form.
- Bacterial growth in these oil-rich clogged pores. The above factors create an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. This inflames the skin and creates the redness associated with "pimples". Cysts may develop beneath the skin’s surface. These cysts can rupture, spread infection into nearby tissue and cause scarring.
Acne is not caused by:
- Foods (although there is some debate about dietary influences)
- Dirt (excessive washing does not help)
- Stress-(although stress may make acne worse)
- Hormones-(although hormones may make acne worse)
Acne can become worse from:
- Picking and squeezing
- Stress
- Monthly hormonal changes
- Excessive hormone production (e.g. polycystic ovary syndrome)
- Contraceptives (due to the hormones) and other various medicines
Are there many different types of acne?
There are several different types of acne. Initially, patients can have white or black heads (comedones) which form in the hair follicles and contain trapped keratin and oils. These are the precursors to inflammatory acne. Afterwards, inflammatory acne occur when the bacteria (Proprionibacterium Acnes) or fungus (Pityrosporum orbiculare) infect these comedones. Most patients only suffer these 2 types which is usually treatable and does not leave any scars. However, a subset of patients suffer cysts and nodules which have a potential for scarring.
What is the best treatment for me?
There are many treatments to consider from topicals, antibiotics, retinoids, hormone treatments for females, and lasers. It is best to have a consultation with Dr. Tang so he can personalize a treatment plan that best meets your type of acne, severity, lifestyle, and budget.
