Acne affects millions of Americans, making it one of the most common skin conditions patients face. At Atomic Dermatology and Med Spa, we understand that dealing with persistent acne can be both physically and emotionally challenging. Finding the right acne treatment can feel overwhelming, whether you’re a teenager experiencing your first breakout or an adult with recurring blemishes. Understanding what causes acne is the first step toward effective management. While over-the-counter acne medication might work for some, others require professional guidance to identify the best acne treatment for their skin concerns.
What Exactly is Acne?
Acne is more than just an occasional pimple. It’s a complex skin condition characterized by inflammation of the hair follicles and oil glands. When we examine acne under a microscope, we see that it develops when hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive.
Different types of acne present in various ways:
- Blackheads: Open plugged pores that appear darker due to oxygen exposure
- Whiteheads: Closed plugged pores that maintain a white or flesh-colored appearance
- Papules: Small, tender red bumps
- Pustules: Papules with pus at their tips
- Nodules: Large, solid, painful lumps beneath the skin
- Cysts: Painful, pus-filled lumps beneath the skin that can cause scarring
The Main Causes of Acne
To effectively address acne, it’s essential to understand the fundamental biological processes behind it. Here are four key factors that contribute to acne formation:
1. Excess Oil (Sebum) Production
Our skin naturally produces an oily substance called sebum that helps keep skin hydrated and protected. However, certain factors can trigger the overproduction of sebum, especially during hormonal fluctuations. This excess oil becomes a primary contributor to acne development, making oil control a crucial part of any acne treatment strategy.
2. Clogged Hair Follicles
Dead skin cells typically rise to the surface and shed naturally. However, when excess sebum is present, these cells can stick together and become trapped inside the follicle. This creates the perfect environment for acne to develop. Professional exfoliation treatments and appropriate acne medication can help address this underlying cause.
3. Bacterial Overgrowth
Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria live on everyone’s skin. However, when follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, these bacteria multiply rapidly, causing the inflammation and infection associated with pimples, leading to skin damage and scarring. The best acne treatment plans often include antibacterial components to address this factor.
4. Inflammation
The body’s immune response to bacterial overgrowth results in inflammation—the redness, swelling, and pain that characterize acne lesions. Reducing inflammation is key to treating existing breakouts and preventing new ones.
Common Triggers and Contributing Factors
While understanding the biological processes behind acne is important, identifying your triggers can be even more valuable for managing breakouts. At Atomic Dermatology, we help patients identify these factors during comprehensive skin evaluations:
1. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations remain one of the most common acne triggers. These can occur during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause, or with specific conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Hormonal changes stimulate the sebaceous glands, increasing oil production and creating conditions favorable for acne development. Our customized acne treatment approaches often address these underlying hormonal influences.
2. Diet and Lifestyle
Emerging research continues to strengthen the connection between diet and acne. High-glycemic foods that spike blood sugar and dairy products may trigger or worsen breakouts in some individuals. Chronic stress, insufficient sleep, inadequate hydration, and lack of regular exercise can all contribute to skin concerns. Our holistic approach to acne medication and treatment includes lifestyle recommendations alongside clinical interventions.
3. Genetics
Family history plays a significant role in determining your likelihood of developing acne. If your parents struggled with acne, you may have inherited similar skin characteristics. While you can’t change your genetics, understanding this predisposition helps develop more effective preventative strategies.
4. Skincare Products and Cosmetics
Some skincare products and cosmetics contain ingredients that can clog pores (comedogenic) or irritate sensitive skin. With the many choices in modern skincare, it can be hard to navigate which products and ingredients are best for you. At Atomic Dermatology and Med Spa, we help patients identify problematic products and recommend non-comedogenic alternatives that won’t interfere with their acne treatment plan.
5. Environmental Factors
Living in Pasco and the Tri-Cities area means dealing with specific environmental challenges that can affect skin health. These include seasonal changes, hot temperatures, exposure to dust and pollutants, and hard water, all of which can contribute to skin irritation and acne flare-ups. The best acne treatment plans account for these local environmental considerations.
6. Specific Medications
Certain medications can trigger or worsen acne as a side effect, including corticosteroids, lithium, some hormonal contraceptives, testosterone supplements, and antidepressants. Never discontinue prescribed medication without consulting your healthcare provider, but inform our dermatologists about all your medications so we can develop an appropriate acne treatment strategy.
When to See a Professional
While occasional pimples are typical, certain signs indicate it’s time to seek professional help. For example, if you’re experiencing persistent or recurring acne despite over-the-counter treatments or have moderate to severe acne with painful cysts, nodules, or scarring. Additionally, if you’ve had a sudden onset of adult acne or your acne is affecting your self-confidence or quality of life, it is time to seek professional guidance.
At Atomic Dermatology and Med Spa, we offer comprehensive acne solutions, including medical-grade facials and chemical peels, prescription-strength topical and oral acne medication, advanced light and laser therapies, hormone-treatment options, and customized skincare regimens to combat various types and causes of acne.
Why Choose Atomic Dermatology and Med Spa
As the Tri-Cities’ premier dermatology practice, we pride ourselves on offering the best acne treatment options backed by science and clinical expertise. Our expert diagnoses don’t just treat symptoms—we identify the root causes of your acne. We provide personalized care and custom treatment plans to create comprehensive solutions for every age and skin type. We understand the emotional impact of acne and provide supportive care throughout your treatment journey. Our team stays at the forefront of dermatological advances to ensure we offer the most effective acne medication and treatment options.
Ready for Clearer Skin?
Understanding why acne occurs is just the beginning – taking action with professional guidance is the most effective way to achieve lasting results. Whether you’ve struggled with acne for years or are experiencing new breakouts, Atomic Dermatology and Med Spa is here to help. Schedule an acne consultation with Atomic Dermatology and Med Spa today for expert guidance and custom treatment options!