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REFINE DERMATOLOGY BLOG

Millions of people experience acne. This common skin condition has several options for remedy, from changes in a skincare routine to topical creams. However, finding the best treatment option can be difficult.

We’ll dive into the causes and severity of different types of acne and what treatment options are available. If you’re looking for a dermatologist for acne near you in Knoxville, TN, look no further; Refine Dermatology has the expertise to assist you!

What Causes Acne?

Acne can occur by various factors, including hormones, genetics, stress, and improper skin care. When you don’t wash your face and body to remove dirt and oils, pores clog with oil, dead skin, or bacteria and cause pimples. 

Types of Acne

Acne comes in many forms, including:

  • Whiteheads – Pus and oil trapped directly under the skin give a white appearance.
  • Blackheads: Open pores in the skin that fill with excess oil and dead skin – the dark spots are caused by an irregular light reflection off the clogged follicle.
  • Pimples – Small pink bumps mostly form due to hormonal changes. There are two types of pimples; papules and pustules. Pustules have pus while papules do not.
  • Nodules – Large, firm, inflamed bumps deep under the skin with no visible head.
  • Cysts – Large and pus-filled pockets that resemble a boil and are often painful.

Treating Acne

Acne typically can be classified as either mild, moderate, moderately severe, or severe. Acne treatment varies from person to person, depending on the type of acne and its severity. When formulating your treatment plan, your dermatologist also considers the acne’s location on your body, any skin conditions you have, and prior treatments that have or have not worked.

For mild cases of acne, a change in skincare routine is the first step to clearing up breakouts. Your dermatologist may also recommend an over-the-counter topical cream, like a topical retinoid, to help your skin keep pores from clogging.

In moderate cases, your dermatologist can prescribe a stronger topical cream to clear up your skin, such as an antibiotic, prescription-strength retinoid, or acid-based cream or gel. 

Treating Severe Acne

A dermatologist may prescribe oral medication in addition to a strong topical cream or gel. Severe acne can lead to scarring. This acne goes further into your skin and damages the layers that are deeper than the skin’s surface. Additional treatment options for acne scarring include:

You must fully treat acne before scar treatment can begin.

Contact Refine Dermatology for Acne Treatment

Our team at Refine Dermatology treats acne in any form, from mild to severe. We treat patients with respect and kindness and will find the perfect treatment option for you and your skin. Rather than searching online for a dermatologist for acne near you, come and see us at Refine Dermatology in Knoxville, TN!

Request an appointment with our team at Refine Dermatology today for happier and healthier skin, or call us at 865-545-0900 !

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