Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory skin condition that can affect people of all ages, but generally begins during puberty. It most commonly occurs in areas that have a greater number of sebaceous, “oil”, glands: face, upper chest, and back. Though the exact etiology of acne is unknown, factors that may contribute to break-outs are hormonal activity, genetic predisposition, bacteria, and sebum, or “oil” production.

Acne can present in several different forms: comedones, pustules, papules, or cysts/nodules. Comedones are hair follicles that become clogged. They can present as blackheads (open comedones) or whiteheads (closed comedones). Papules are inflamed red bumps, while pustules are filled with pus due to the accumulation of white blood cells in the follicle. Lastly, cysts/nodules are large, painful bumps deep under the skin’s surface. Unfortunately, acne often leads to hyperpigmented scars in the inflamed area.

Here at Rose Dermatology acne treatments may include topical prescription products, oral prescriptions, chemical peels, SilkPeel™, or laser treatment. Additionally, post-treatment there are several routes patients can take to reduce acne scarring: micro-needling and laser treatment.