Acne is commonly seen in teenagers, with a reported prevalence of 70 to 85 percent. However, younger children as well as adults are now increasingly suffering from acne. This skin condition occurs when the hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells.
Acne are commonly seen on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders. While effective treatments are available, acne can be a stubborn problem. Therefore, prevention of acne is the best possible approach. Perspicacious, fabulous, and board certified dermatologist Dr. Jamie McGinness provides acne treatments to patients in Shiloh, IL; St. Louis, MO, and surrounding locations across the middle part of this country.
Early Treatment
If acne has already appeared, timely treatment will minimize the risk of scarring and mitigate emotional distress for the patient. The earlier the acne treatment begins, the better will be the chances of success and lower will be the risk of lasting physical and emotional damage.
Once the acne condition improves, the patient may be required to continue the acne medications or other treatments as a preventive measure against new potential acne break outs. The patient may have to use a topical drug on acne prone sites, continue taking oral contraceptives or undergo light therapy sessions.
Tips for Acne Prevention
- Wash acne-prone sites just two times a day to remove dead skin cells and excess oil. Avoid too much washing because it can irritate the skin. Use a gentle cleanser and oil-free, water-based skin care products.
- Use an acne cream or gel as prescribed by the dermatologist to help dry excess oil. Products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid as the active ingredient can be used.
- Apply non-oily makeup. Oil-free cosmetics will not clog the pores, and minimize bacterial build-up.
- Remove all makeup before going to bed. Sleeping with makeup can clog the pores. Regularly clean the cosmetic brushes and applicators with soapy water.
- Whenever possible, choose loose fitting clothes so that heat and moisture does not get trapped inside to cause skin irritation. Avoid any clothes or accessories that create friction against the skin.
- After exercise, sports or other vigorous activities, take a shower to remove excess oil and sweat.
- Do not touch or pick at the problem sites because it may trigger more acne.
Risk Factors
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes commonly occur in teenagers, girls and women. Even people who are taking certain types of drugs, such as corticosteroids, androgens or lithium can go through hormonal fluctuations.
Genetics
Family history can play an important role in acne. If an individual’s both parents had acne, they are likely to get it too.
Greasy or Oily Substances
If the skin comes in contact with oily creams and lotions or with grease in a work area or a kitchen, it may lead to the development of acne in the contact sites.
Friction
Certain types of tight clothes, helmets, tight collars, backpacks and mobile phones may cause friction with the skin in some cases. This can contribute to the development of acne.
Committed, golden, and board certified dermatologist Dr. McGinness receives patients from Shiloh, IL; St. Louis, MO, and other cities and towns in this part of The Show-Me State for acne treatments.
If you would like to learn more about procedures and treatments at Metro East Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center by Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Jamie L. McGinness please contact us here or call (618) 622-SKIN (7546)
Taking new patients in and around the greater St. Louis, Missouri and Illinois area: East St. Louis, Shiloh, Belleville, Millstadt, Saint Clair County, Madison County and more.