Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States today. It most commonly affects the face, but can also occur on the back, chest, and neck. While this condition is usually treatable with the right combination of topical and oral medication, it can take an emotional toll on the people that have it.
At River Region Dermatology and Laser, we’re proud to provide comprehensive acne treatments for patients of all ages in the Montgomery area. For more information about our practice or any of the services we offer, contact us today!
What Causes Acne?
Acne has a number of different causes, but almost always begins to form because of clogged pores. As skin cells die, they normally rise to the surface of the pores and are expelled from the body through them. But when the body begins to make too much of a product called “sebum,” these skin cells start to stick together inside the pore, becoming more difficult to be naturally dislodged and removed by the body.
It can also be caused by overactive skin bacteria. While the bacteria P. acnes naturally lives within the skin, sometimes it multiplies too quickly and begins to accumulate within the pores. Once this bacteria starts to multiply, the pores become inflamed and acne or cysts start to appear.
How Can I Treat my Acne?
Because leaving acne alone can result in irreversible scarring, finding a treatment that works for you can be critical. These treatments are administered in the form of topical and oral medications.
Before prescribing any medication, our board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Porcia Love, will evaluate your skin type and the possible causes of your acne. This condition is typically caused by some combination of hormones, bacteria, and physical clogging of the pores, but each of these causes can be exacerbated by the pre-existing condition of a patient’s skin. Based on this evaluation, Dr. Love may prescribe you a topical medication, an oral medication, or both.
While it may take some time to figure out which combination of medications are best for your individual case of acne, Dr. Love will work with you every step of the way and help adjust your medications accordingly.
Comprehensive acne care can be hard to come by. If you’re interested in getting personalized treatment from a professional who cares, we can help. Doctor Porcia Love is a native of Montgomery and has been delivering the highest standard of dermatological care to patients in the area for many years. Contact River Region Dermatology and Laser today to schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Love. We look forward to hearing from you!