Breaking Out: Common Causes of Acne Explained

Acne is a common problem, affecting many age groups, from teens to adults. Acne can be embarrassing, making you self-conscious about your appearance. Acne can also be painful. Dr. Paul Fischer, plastic surgeon in Milford, CT, provides a wide range of dermatology and plastic surgery services, including diagnosis and treatment of acne.

What You Need To Know About Acne

The most common cause of acne is clogged pores. Pores can be plugged up with excess oil, debris, and dead skin cells. Clogged pores can cause an acne breakout of blackheads or whiteheads. Another common cause of acne is a bacterial infection on the skin. This problem can result in large, painful welts which drain pus. This type of acne is known as cystic acne.

Acne breakouts are more likely to occur if you are under stress, have a poor diet, or during hormonal fluctuations due to puberty, pregnancy, or menopause.

Dr. Fischer can discuss the various acne treatment options with you and recommend the most effective treatment, depending on the type of acne. Common acne treatments include:

• Topical and oral antibiotics to kill underlying bacteria causing cystic acne
• Laser treatment to kill underlying bacteria infecting your pores
• Benzoyl peroxide topical products to help clear blocked pores
• Extraction treatment to remove blackheads or whiteheads completely
• Isotretinoin products to treat severe cystic acne
• Hormonal products to help with hormone-related acne

Acne can also leave unsightly acne scarring behind. Dr. Fischer can diminish the appearance of acne scarring with skin resurfacing treatments including laser therapy, chemical peels, dermal fillers, and more.

You can take steps to prevent acne breakouts. Remember to:

• Cleanse your face at least twice daily
• Avoid going to bed with makeup on your face
• Wear non-comedogenic makeup that won't clog pores
• Clean and disinfect your cell phone regularly
• Exercise regularly and stay hydrated to help flush toxins

Want To Know More About Common Causes of Acne Breakouts and Acne Treatments?

To discover more about the common causes of acne breakouts, and how your doctor can help, call Dr. Paul Fischer, plastic surgeon in Milford, CT. You can reach him in the office by calling (203) 301-5860, so call today.