Acne is a skin condition associated with blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, pustules, and other blemishes. It can affect people of almost any age, from young children to older adults. Severe acne can be especially frustrating because it can be painful and more difficult to treat. Dr. David Thomas and Dr. Margaret Hobson Dupree, the board-certified dermatologists at North County Dermatology Center in Encinitas, CA, treat acne and will develop an individualized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Causes of Acne

A common cause of acne is clogged pores. Sebum is naturally produced by the sebaceous glands and secreted onto the skin through the pores. Sebum helps moisturize the skin and clean out the pores by clearing away dead skin cells and other debris. If the process of sebum secretion is interrupted, old skin cells and debris are not cleared away, and acne can form.

Other possible causes of acne include:

• Bacteria
• Hormonal changes
• Inadequate hygiene
• Family history of acne
• Hair and cosmetic products
• Certain foods (e.g., dairy, sugar)
• Medications
• Stress

The Role of a Dermatologist in Managing Severe Acne

Dermatologists play a key role in helping patients manage severe acne by developing a custom treatment plan tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Additionally, a dermatologist can help by prescribing medications or recommending specific procedures to help clear up existing acne and improve the texture and appearance of the skin. Dermatologists also offer treatments to diminish the appearance of acne scars and help prevent additional scarring in the future.

Acne Treatments

Many effective options are available for treating mild to severe acne. The right treatment plan for you can depend on several factors, such as the type and severity of acne. Treatment could also include multiple methods, such as topical products and medication. The experienced dermatologists at our Encinitas, CA office will develop an acne treatment plan customized to your needs.

Some of the many effective options for treating all types of acne include:

• Tretinoin
• Extraction
• Oral antibiotics
• Isotretinoin
• Topical antibiotics
• Hormonal treatments
• Microdermabrasion
• Chemical peels
• Laser therapy
• Facials

Our dermatologists can help you manage severe acne and achieve clearer skin. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Thomas or Dr. Dupree to learn more about the different options for treating and managing your acne by calling North County Dermatology Center in Encinitas, CA, at (760) 230-2805.