A pimple isn’t just unsightly; it can also cause scarring. Acne is one of the most common skin problems, affecting up to 50 million people in the United States alone. It can affect anyone, from teens to adults. In mild cases, it’s possible to conceal bumps and blemishes with makeup, but those with moderate or severe acne require medical treatment to reduce their appearance and avoid permanent scarring.
Symptoms of acne can range from the occasional blemish to an outbreak that causes papules, pustules, nodules and cysts. A pimple forms when glands produce too much oil (sebum) and when dead skin cells, sebum and hair clog pores. A small amount of bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes, which naturally live on the skin, then infects these plugs.
People with mild to moderate acne can often manage it with a cleanser made for their skin type, which helps prevent clogging and reduces excess oil production. In addition, an over-the-counter retinoid or azelaic acid may be helpful to reduce oil production and to speed healing of the skin. However, patients should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that they are not causing unwanted side effects, such as dryness or irritation.흉터치료
If over-the-counter treatments do not help, a visit to the family doctor is in order. The doctor will assess the severity of the acne, determine if it is causing any scarring and prescribe treatments appropriate for the patient’s specific condition. In many cases, an oral antibiotic is recommended for those with moderate to severe inflammatory acne. It typically takes 4 to 6 weeks for these medicines to show results.
Topical treatments include lotions that contain retinoids or benzoyl peroxide to help reduce inflammation and encourage the skin’s natural process of shedding dead skin cells. Medicated pimple patches are another effective treatment option that can reduce swelling and kill bacteria. These patches are a good choice for nodular or cystic acne because they deliver active ingredients directly to the spot where they are needed [26].
Patients should be advised not to pick, squeeze or pop their blemishes.여드름흉터치료 This can spread infection and cause permanent scarring. It is also advisable to wash the face no more than twice each day, with warm water and a cleanser made especially for acne-prone skin. A patient should never scrub the skin or use an alcohol-based astringent, as this can over-dry the skin and contribute to the development of acne.
People who have severe or persistent acne need to seek care from a dermatologist, such as Dr. Paul Jarrod. Dermatologists have years of experience treating acne and can safely extract a blemish with sterilized instruments to minimize the chance of spreading infection and causing scarring. They can also advise on a long-term treatment regimen to help prevent future breakouts. Treatments can include pills that block male hormones, spironolactone or adapalene, as well as prescription medications to treat the inflammation and bacterial infections associated with acne. With the right treatment, it is possible to achieve clear, beautiful skin.