Because acne is so common, an almost unlimited number of products are available in the consumer market, but few provide real, long-lasting results. If you are looking for a more effective acne treatment, in Pittsburgh, PA, Horvath Dermatology Associates can help. Dr. David Horvath, Dr. Brian Horvath, and Dr. Gretchen Kreizenbeck are board-certified dermatologists who have the expertise to address the underlying cause of your acne.

Types of Acne

Acne is a general term that describes different types of skin blemishes. Each type of acne develops in the same way. Oils from your skin combine with dead skin cells and block the pores. As a result, bacteria are trapped inside your pores which causes an infection and inflammation around the blocked pore. The most common skin blemishes are whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, papules, nodules, and cysts.

Goals of Treatment for Acne

The goals of treatment for your acne go far beyond making blemishes disappear. Acne is a sign that your skin is not balanced. You may have excess dead skin cells and oils on the surface of your skin or an abundance of bacteria in your pores. Our board-certified dermatologists find solutions that balance these factors for healthier skin that is less likely to develop problems.

Medications for Acne

Prescription retinoids help to remove debris from inside your pores. The medication also eliminates excess dead skin cells and oils from the surface of your skin. Benzoyl peroxide destroys the bacteria in your pores to reduce the risk of infections and inflammation. It also prevents an accumulation of dead skin cells and oils. As one of the most common ingredients in acne treatments, salicylic acid is recommended for people who have acne that is caused by dead skin cells. The acid also unclogs your pores. Removing bacteria from your pores helps to treat and prevent infections, inflammation, and irritation. Azelaic acid is an effective treatment for acne that involves a high level of bacteria in your pores. Dapsone is a topical antibiotic medication that slows the growth of bacteria inside your pores. It also decreases inflammation in your pores. Dapsone is typically a long-term medication that you’ll need to take to prevent your acne from returning.

Although it is very common, acne is a complex skin condition that requires an individualized treatment approach and the right combination of medications. At Horvath Dermatology Associates, Dr. Horvath, Dr. Horvath, and Dr. Kreizenbeck develop long-term solutions for Pittsburgh, PA, residents with acne. Call us today at (412) 831-3300 to schedule an appointment at our Pittsburgh, PA, office.