Acne.

What is acne?
Acne is chronic inflammation of the hair follicle and oil gland (pilosebceous units) most often occuring on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders. It can appear as whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and sometimes as deep, painful bumps that look and feel like boils. 

What causes acne?
Experts believe acne has to do with sebum production. Sebum is an oily substance that is produced in glands that reside in the pores, or hair follicles, of your skin.  Acne usually begins around puberty, when everyone experiences an increase in the production of hormones that regulate the size and activity of these oil-producing glands. Hormones also affect the way skin cells are shed, causing them to stick together and accumulate in the follicle. This causes the hair follicles to clog and whiteheads and blackheads to appear.  Inflammation in the skin causes the clogged glands to then turn into red pimples and pustules.

Can anyone get acne?
It is estimated that as many as 70 million people suffer from acne.  Acne usually occurs between ages 12 and 25, with males suffering most during their early teens and females more in their later teens through late twenties. Adult acne occurs between ages 20 and 40 and is more common in women.

What is the treatment for acne?
There is no immediate or instant cure for acne, but Bakal Dermatology has had great success in controlling acne and preventing the scarring.  It is important to avoid any products on your skin that are comedogenic/acnegenic and choose cleansers, moisturizers, makeups and sunscreens that are oil free and non-comedogenic.   Recent evidence also suggests that diet may play a role in acne, as well, so we recommend a healthy diet of fresh fruit and vegetables, lean meat, chicken and fish, and whole grains.  Avoid foods that cause high blood sugar such as white bread, sugary snacks and fried foods.  Dairy may also contribute to acne so we may advice in certain cases to limit its intake.

Therapies include both oral and topical medications.  We will customize a treatment plan for you and will follow you closely to ensure your acne is well managed.