What is Acne?

Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammation of the skin that occurs as a result of clogged follicles. Acne occurs most often during adolescence but can occur off and on throughout life, especially during hormonal changes. Acne will most often appear on the face, chest, back and upper arms. Symptoms include blackheads, whiteheads, pustules, redness, cysts, and abscesses.

What are The Different Types?

Whiteheads & Blackheads
Whiteheads and blackheads can occur when the follicle becomes clogged with debris, oil, and dead skin cells. The main differences between the two are that blackheads are open and whiteheads are closed. Also, blackheads are darker because they are open and the contents of the pore have oxidized.
Papules & Pustules
Papules and pustules are basically the next steps after a white head. This can be characterized by increased inflammation, with or without pus. Papules will be red and inflamed without pus, and pustules will have pus. Pustules can be quite painful so it is best to be patient when treating this type of blemish.
Severe Acne – Cysts
More severe acne can be characterized by overall facial redness and with deeper nodules that may or may not contain fluid. This level of acne can leave permanent scarring and damage to the skin if left untreated. This level of acne may require a multifaceted approach, such as topical and oral prescription medication.

How is it treated?

Treating acne is not a one-size fit all approach. The treatment of acne can be a bit of a trial and error approach at times because all skin types respond differently to acne treatment. However, even with adequate treatment, acne will tend to flare up from time to time and can then cause permanent scarring or pitting. Acne and acne scars can be treated with peels, microdermabrasion, lasers or sometimes a combination of treatments and topical products.
The cause of the acne will dictate what type of active ingredients will be recommended to use topically. Dr. Diggs’s CosmedicDerm Professional Skin Care product line has a comprehensive line of products specifically made to treat all kinds of acne, containing potent ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and retinol. Her expert staff can recommend a spectrum of prescription products for a stronger therapeutic approach including oral and topical antibiotics and stronger retinoids, as well as procedures which improve acne, hyperpigmentation and scarring, such as glycolic peels, microdermabrasion and laser peels.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are experiencing acne and are unsure how to properly treat it, call Dr. Shauna Diggs’ office today to schedule a consultation. Dr. Shauna Diggs and her staff are ready to help find your way to the clearer skin as Michigan’s leaders in comprehensive skin health and rejuvenation.