Acne Specialist

What causes acne?

The skin is covered with lots of tiny pores. Typically, dead skin cells appear on the surface of a pore and are shed by the body. Acne begins when these dead skin cells get stuck together from the natural oils in the body. The skin cells are not shed from the body, and the pores get clogged. As a result, pimples form.

Bacteria may also exist within a pore, causing it to become red and swollen.

There are myths that certain foods, like fried foods and chocolate, cause acne, but there is little research to back up this misconception.

Who gets acne?

Acne is the most common skin condition affecting Americans. So if you are suffering from acne, you are not alone. While acne generally occurs during the developmental periods of teens through young adulthood, it can affect people of all ages and both genders.

Acne may lead to scarring or dark marks on the skin. Due to this, people who have chronic acne may experience low self-esteem or even depression. If you are suffering from acne, you should see a doctor to minimize long-term damage to your skin and prevent future breakouts.

How is acne treated?

When you see your doctor for acne, he will conduct a thorough physical examination and ask questions about your medical history and lifestyle. It is important for your doctor to clarify a diagnosis of acne since other medical conditions may closely resemble acne.

Once your doctor clarifies the diagnosis, he will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your skin concerns. This may include using special skin care products or oral or topical medications. Other treatments to address acne may include topical medicine, oral contraceptives for women, antibiotics, as well as chemical peels, and laser or light therapies. Talk to Dr. Karbasi to decide which treatment option is the best choice for your situation.