Acne
Beauty is only skin deep we’re told. But what if that skin is inflamed with acne? The presumption is that acne affects mostly teenagers. Sometimes that’s true. We presume that it’s temporary and will go away fairly quickly. Sometimes that’s true, too. We also know, or are, the person who is the exception; the one for whom acne is painful, embarrassing, and more than just skin deep. Acne affects sufferers to the core of their being.
Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting up to 50 million Americans annually. Though it’s most prevalent during adolescence, acne can occur at any age.
A generation or two ago, acne was a condition that people had to live with because treatment options weren’t widely available. We live in a better time, when therapeutic regimens are accessible for those who suffer from this painful skin condition.
What Exactly IS Acne?
Acne is a skin condition characterized by
- Blackheads or whiteheads
- Painful large or small bumps under the skin
- Pimples
- Pus-filled lumps beneath the skin
Acne is a difficult condition to navigate both physically and emotionally. There are common myths surrounding acne and improper hygiene or poor diet, for example, when really acne is caused by:
- Excess oil production in the skin
- Bacteria
- Inflammation
- Clogged hair follicles
Acne can appear on various areas of the body, including the face, shoulders, chest, and back, and can even appear as cystic acne, which is very uncomfortable. Acne can lead to feelings of emotional distress.
Treatment
There are a variety of over-the-counter treatments available, some of which include the ingredient benzoyl peroxide. While these treatments may be effective for some people, in difficult or resistant cases, acne requires medical treatment. Benzoyl peroxide is also a treatment used by dermatologists as a prescription strength acne medication.
What is Benzoyl Peroxide?
Benzoyl peroxide has been used to treat acne for many years and is available in lesser strength OTC medications as well as higher strength, prescription medications available from a dermatologist. It works by:
- Reducing bacteria on the skin
- Reducing inflammation
- Exfoliation preventing clogged pores
- Clearing pores that are clogged, inhibiting the development of acne
Benzoyl peroxide is a largely safe topical agent, although, when used initially, there can be some redness, itching, or peeling of the skin. These symptoms usually dissipate as your skin becomes accustomed to the medication.
It’s important to use the product as your medical professional tells you to, including finishing the medication prescribed. Benzoyl peroxide can help kill the bacteria that causes acne, thus reducing the need for antibiotics.
Can The Derm NP Help with Acne?
The short answer is – yes! We offer treatments for acne. The Derm NP is staffed by a dermatology-certified nurse practitioner who is experienced and ready to help you attain clearer skin through the use of prescription strength benzoyl peroxide or another treatment modality. Contact us at (630)233-9767 or thedermnp@thedermnp.com for an appointment to help you clear up resistant acne or other skin conditions and become the best you possible.
Image credit:
| Envato Elements / licsiren |
References:
Matin T, Goodman MB. Benzoyl Peroxide. [Updated 2021 Oct 20]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537220/
Disclaimer: The information contained here was not written by a medical doctor and is intended for informational purposes only. This is not a substitute for medical advice.
