Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, often beginning in the teenage years and typically improving in adulthood. However, for some, acne persists well into adult life. It can significantly impact self-esteem, confidence, and stress levels. While many assume acne is easy to treat, some individuals struggle despite trying various treatments, products, and remedies. In persistent cases, consulting a board-certified dermatologist can be the most effective path to clearer skin.
What is Acne?
Acne is a common skin condition that leads to blemishes like pimples, often accompanied by redness, inflammation, and even discomfort. It occurs when pores become clogged with oil and debris, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. Acne commonly appears on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders but can develop anywhere on the body. If left untreated, it may result in lasting scars and dark spots.
Causes of Acne
Acne is a complex skin condition influenced by multiple factors, including hormones, diet, sleep, exercise, and genetics. It occurs when pores become clogged with dead skin cells and bacteria, leading to inflammation and visible breakouts. These same factors also affect how well the skin sheds dead cells and regulates oil production.
Acne develops due to a combination of factors, such as:
✔️ Excess Oil Production – Overactive sebaceous (oil) glands can clog pores.
✔️ Clogged Pores – A buildup of dead skin cells and oil traps bacteria inside the follicle.
✔️ Bacterial Growth – Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria multiply, leading to inflammation.
✔️ Hormonal Changes – Fluctuations during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or stress can trigger breakouts.
✔️ Lifestyle & Skincare – Diet, stress, medications, and pore-clogging products can worsen acne.
For some, adjusting lifestyle habits can help reduce breakouts. However, when genetics play a role, acne can be more difficult to manage. In such cases, professional treatments and medical-grade skincare may be necessary. Our providers can recommend the most effective solutions to help you achieve clearer, healthier skin.
Symptoms of Acne
Although they can appear anywhere, symptoms of acne usually appear on the face, neck, shoulders, back or chest. Symptoms of acne may include the following:
Blackheads & Whiteheads (Comedonal Acne) – Clogged pores that appear as small bumps.
Papules & Pustules (Inflammatory Acne) – Red, swollen pimples, sometimes filled with pus.
Cystic & Nodular Acne – Deep, painful breakouts that can lead to scarring.
Hormonal Acne – Often appears along the jawline, chin, and lower face due to hormonal fluctuations.
These symptoms can come and go, and may flare up at certain times as a result of hormonal or environmental triggers such as pregnancy, menstrual periods, high levels of humidity, using oily cosmetics or hair products, and taking certain medications. Severe cases of acne may cause scarring, which can have a damaging emotional effect on the sufferer. If acne symptoms do not respond to over-the-counter treatments, or if scarring develops as the acne clears up, a dermatologist should be consulted.
Acne Treatment
Personalized Acne Treatment for Clearer Skin
Acne treatments focus on reducing oil production, speeding up skin cell turnover, and minimizing inflammation to prevent new breakouts and heal existing blemishes. Since different types of acne have different causes, a professional diagnosis is essential to determine the most effective treatment approach.
For mild acne, over-the-counter products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid may help. However, more persistent or severe acne often requires professional intervention. At Aspen Dermatology & Aesthetics , we customize acne treatments to target the root causes and restore skin health.
Our Acne Treatment Options:
Many treatment plans include a combination of topical creams, prescription medications, and in-office procedures to provide the best results. Our board-certified dermatologists and dermatology aestheticians will assess your skin and create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve clear, healthy skin.
Chemical Peels – Exfoliate and unclog pores to reduce breakouts and improve skin texture.
Acne Facials – deeply cleanses, unclogs pores, and reduces breakouts for clearer, healthier skin.
Laser Therapy – Targets acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation.
Topical Treatments – Prescription-strength creams and ointments to control oil production and promote cell turnover.
Antibiotics – Reduce bacterial overgrowth and inflammation.
Birth Control & Spironolactone – Help regulate hormones to control hormonal acne.
Isotretinoin (Accutane) – A powerful option for severe, treatment-resistant acne.
Acne Maintenance
Consistent skincare and professional treatments are essential for keeping acne under control. Acne maintenance focuses on preventing breakouts, managing oil production, and reducing inflammation through a combination of medical-grade skincare, facials, and lifestyle adjustments. Regular treatments like chemical peels, laser therapy, and deep-cleansing facials help maintain clear, healthy skin over time.
Once you find the right treatment and your skin clears up, it’s important to continue an at-home skincare routine to prevent future breakouts. This includes gently cleansing your face, avoiding harsh scrubbing, and using dermatologist-recommended products. Our providers and dermatology aestheticians will provide personalized skincare recommendations, including our in-house acne treatment products, to support long-term skin health.
Additionally, patients should avoid picking or squeezing blemishes and be mindful of anything that touches their skin, as bacteria from hands, phones, and pillowcases can contribute to breakouts.
Schedule A Consultation
If acne has started to negatively affect your life, then it is time to look at your treatment options. Acne can be frustrating to deal with but can be prevented with the help of a board-certified dermatologist. Contact Us or book online today with one of our experienced dermatology providers or dermatology aestheticians.
