San Antonio Acne Treatment
Medical Treatment for Acne
If you’re struggling with persistent acne, you are not alone – over 20% of Americans also deal with bothersome pimples. Diet, stress, hormones, hygiene, environment, nicotine intake, skin care, and genetics all play a role in moderate to severe acne. If you live a healthy lifestyle with little stress and still have breakouts, genetics or hormones are likely to blame. Thankfully, there’s a safe and effective method for tackling these unwanted blemishes. Texas Skin & Vein offers top-notch dermatology services in San Antonio, TX, to control whiteheads, blackheads, cystic acne, and hormonal acne. Our team of professional board-certified skin doctors can address your acne and acne scars so you can discover flawless skin.
What is Acne?
Acne is a skin condition that occurs when dirt, dead skin cells, and oil become trapped in your pores and hair follicles. Normally, as your skin sheds, so do the excess contaminants. However, if the shedding skin, dirt particles, and oil do not naturally fall off, this can contribute to acne. Skin bacteria and inflammation of the pores also occurs leading to pimples or “zits.”
The face is the most common place for pimples to appear, but they can also appear on your shoulders, chest, back, and the rest of your body. Recurring acne can leave you not only with pimples that never go away but also with acne scarring and feelings of self-consciousness. Although teenagers are the most likely demographic to be prone to acne, anyone of any age or race is susceptible to acne lesions.
Types of Acne
Whiteheads
Small raised bumps, either white or a lighter shade of your natural skin tone. They are round and firm.
Blackheads
These commonly appear on noses. Smaller than other forms of acne, they appear dark because dirt and oxidized oil accumulate at the opening of the hair follicle.
Papules
Papules are very firm, raised bumps that are typically either red/pink or have a reddish border with a white center. They vary in size, but by definition are less than a centimeter.
Pimples (pustules)
Small and off-white or slightly yellowish, these pus-filled, inflamed spots plague millions of people.
Nodules
These small, firm lumps differ from other acne because they aren’t a direct result of trapped build-up. Because they result from excess tissue growth, they are typically the same color as your skin and vary in size. They can be found all over your body and on your organs. Nodules filled with pus are what we know as cysts.
Diagnosing Acne
If you have constant acne, a specialized acne clinic in San Antonio can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Dermatologists play a vital role in managing acne by treating active breakouts, preventing future flare-ups, and minimizing permanent scarring.
Effective acne treatment options—both in San Antonio and across the country—range from over-the-counter cleansers and topical creams to prescription medications. The key is choosing the right treatment based on the type and severity of your acne.
A dermatologist like Dr. Straight, specializes in developing and guiding you through the best approach to treat your skin. Treatment options may include oral antibiotics, topical antibiotics, and corticosteroid injections for more severe cases like cystic acne.
Start Treating Your Acne Today
Treatments Available for Acne
Texas Skin & Vein employs various methods to help with chronic acne. Our acne treatments are typically non-invasive and target anything from mild to severe cases. Patients have a number of options for customized or personalized medical care:
- Facial treatments
- Microdermabrasion
- Topical medications or products
- Oral medications
- Isotretinoin (or Accutane)
- Chemical peels
- Laser treatments
Potential Side Effects of Acne Medications and Therapies
Acne treatment, like any treatment, may have side effects. Side effects vary depending on severity and treatment route, but may include:
- Dry skin leading to irritation, including burning, itching, or peeling, caused by topical medications.
- Sensitivity to the sun
- Upset stomach, dizziness, or lightheadedness caused by oral antibiotics.
While it’s tempting to pop zits, this only does more harm. When you pop pimples on your own, you risk infections and acne scarring.
Acne Relief Appointment in San Antonio
You don’t have to put up with painful, frustrating acne. Texas Skin & Vein will conduct a private consultation with you to develop a personalized plan. Along with implementing medically approved methods, we’ll also advise you on how to manage your acne symptoms. Dr. Straight and our team constantly strive to provide patients with the most up-to-date cosmetic and medical treatments and expertise. To make your appointment, either call us or send us a message!
