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Acne Info

Acne Info

Information On Acne Treatments In Gainesville

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions that affect Americans, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. While young adults and teens are the most likely to experience this skin condition, anyone at any age can experience symptoms of acne. Too often patients are not given the time and attention needed for them to fully understand the nature and treatment of acne. Our dermatology staff at Gainesville Dermatology & Skin Surgery have been specially trained to assist you in the proper use of medications, cleansing agents and cosmetics. We believe we have developed the most well-rounded approach to the treatment of acne, combining medical expertise with at-home skin care practices to provide our patients with the ideal acne remedies based on their needs. Contact a Gainesville dermatologist with our practice today for compressive acne skin care.

What is acne?

Acne is a disorder of the hair follicles (pores) and oil (sebaceous) glands. In acne, skin cells lining the hair follicle do not shed properly and form a plug at the follicle opening, called a comedone. Oil and skin cells build up behind this plug and may rupture into the underlying skin, forming a red and inflamed bump, commonly known as a pimple. Bacteria growing in the pimple can cause additional inflammation and lead to the pimple appearing yellowish-white and fill with fluid or pus, forming what is known as a pustule. While these lesions can be tempting to scratch or pick, acne should never be touched, as the oil and bacteria on our skin can cause increased irritation of the pimple and even lead to scarring.  

Recommended Skin Care & Acne Treatments

Acne does not result from dirty skin, and excessive washing of the skin with face cleansers or soap products can aggravate acne. You should limit washing to no more than two to three times a day, as most individuals only need to wash their faces if they have become excessively oily. If you are placed on medication, it’s important to know that some medications have a tendency to make the skin dry and sensitive. A mild soap such as Neutrogena, Dove, Oil of Olay, Purpose, or Cetaphil paired with lukewarm water should be used for cleaning acne-prone skin. At Gainesville Dermatology & Skin Surgery, we provide our patients with multiple non-prescription products that may assist in the treatment of acne and overall skin care.

Oral medications are commonly used in cases where topical facial cleansers prove to be ineffective at treating a patient’s acne. These prescription medications are specifically chosen based on each individual’s skin type and acne diagnosis, and these medications must be used on a regular basis to achieve maximum effectiveness. Everyone reacts differently to over the counter acne medication, and it can take 3–4 months for treatment to be effective. Consistency and patience is mandatory during this period due to the time needed for these acne medications to begin showing results. If you have not experienced the desired result by 3–4 months, or if you are unable to tolerate the medications after 2–3 weeks of use, notify your provider, as he or she may recommend alternative medication for severe acne.

Gainesville Dermatology & Skin Surgery is the first practice in the area to offer FRAXEL laser treatment. By stimulating acne-scarred skin, FRAXEL laser treatment is able to prompt cell growth, allowing for the skin on the face to repair and heal. Once your acne is clear, it is the perfect time for FRAXEL. Our highly-trained Gainesville dermatology staff provides the latest acne treatments for improving scarred skin.

Blue Light Treatment for acne is another option for those who are not responding to typical prescription medications or would like another treatment option. Patients who may be candidates for Accutane but who do not wish to use Accutane may have similar beneficial results from Blue Light Treatment. Results vary but blue light treatment has shown to have similar beneficial results when compared to Accutane without the side effects. Ask your medical assistant about Blue Light or contact our Gainesville Dermatology Center to schedule an evaluation.

Cosmetic companies routinely test all cosmetics for the ability to cause acne. In general, most cosmetics are safe for use by individuals who suffer from acne. However, everyone's skin reacts differently, and some cosmetic lines on the market may cause skin irritation. When choosing cosmetics, look for products that are non-comedogenic, non-acnegenic (non-acne producing), and hypoallergenic.

For years it was believed that certain food products, especially chocolate, could worsen acne. It is current medical belief that food types have little to do with the development of acne. With a well-rounded diet, it is unlikely that an occasional candy bar will worsen acne. Each person’s body chemistry is different — if you feel that certain foods make your acne flare, it is advisable that these foods be eliminated from your diet.