Adult acne is on the rise, particularly among women. Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. While the condition is often associated with teenagers, adults can have acne in their 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, meaning many adults are facing wrinkles and adult acne at the same time.
Acne occurs when pores in the skin becomes blocked by oil and dead skin cells, and these pores become inflamed when bacteria is trapped in the pore as well. The symptoms of acne aren’t just pimples – they also include blackheads, whiteheads, papules, cysts, and nodules. Cysts form when a pore fills with dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria, and nodules are hard bumps that form under the surface of the skin. When cysts and nodules clear, they leave behind scarring. This scarring can be minimized, however, by treating acne when it first begins to appear, and Amerejuve also offers a number of services that address the scarring acne can leave behind.
Acne is graded on a scale from 1 to 4, with 1 being mild and 4 being severe. Mild acne can usually be treated with topical products that do not require a prescription. More severe acne, particularly if it also presents with cysts or nodules, may require more aggressive treatment in order to clear the acne and prevent scarring. Laser and light therapies or chemical peels may be used to treat aggressive acne. Prescription medications may also be needed in some cases.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends several simple steps to control acne, including gently washing the face twice a day with lukewarm water, shampooing hair regularly, avoiding sun exposure, and avoiding touching the face or other areas prone to acne whenever possible.
If these steps aren’t enough, Amerejuve offers a number of services to help clear skin and heal and reduce the appearance of scarring from acne. Call (713) 960-6262 for more information or read our special acne coverage in The Amerejuve Insider Vol. 1 No. 4.
