Acne is an incredibly common condition and, as such, we know a lot about the best treatment strategies for it. Dr. Elizabeth Gawey from Gawey Dermatology is an experienced dermatologist who will recommend your best acne treatment in Oklahoma City, OK.
What causes acne?
It may be surprising for you to learn that acne has little to do with diet and other lifestyle factors. Three factors contribute to the clogging of pores and the subsequent development of acne. Only one of these may be involved or all three of the factors may be present and clogging your pores. Developing acne is mostly predetermined by genetics, but external factors may contribute. Causes of acne include:
- Genetic predisposition: Did your parents have acne? If so, you will most likely develop acne.
- Hormones: Both genders are susceptible to the exacerbation of acne during puberty when testosterone levels are highest. For women, acne tends to get worse around the time of menstruation.
- Stress: Increased levels of cortisol presents another hormonal factor that can cause acne.
- Frequently wearing hats and helmets: This may lead to clogging of your pores.
- High humidity/air pollution
- Certain medications
- Frequent contact with oil or grease: Working in a restaurant where consistent contact with grease and frying oil is standard and regular use of greasy and oily personal care products may contribute to acne.
What are some acne treatments?
Acne can range from being a mild annoyance to an extremely painful condition. No single treatment option will work the same for everyone. Your dermatologist in Oklahoma City, OK will recommend the acne treatment that is best for you. Treatment options that may be recommended include:
- Over-the-counter treatments: Your dermatologist can recommend the best one for you. This will generally be in the form of a topical ointment.
- Prescription medication: Oral contraception stabilizes your hormones and is sometimes used to treat acne. Also, both topical and oral antibiotics may be prescribed, as well as steroids.
- Isotretinoin: This medication is reserved for severe cystic acne
- Laser and other light therapies: These treatments yield less predictable results, but are sometimes a very effective approach to acne treatment.
- Chemical peels: This is usually used for acne with blackheads and papules. Chemical peels use gentle chemicals that remove the top layer of skin. The new skin that grows underneath will be smoother and have less visible scarring.
- Facials: A classic facial consists of a deep cleansing of the skin and extraction of whiteheads and blackheads. Other forms of facials may involve a combination of some of the above treatments, and others, such as decongesting (unblocking pores), and microdermabrasion.
Contact us
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Gawey from Gawey Dermatology to receive the best acne treatment for you in Oklahoma City, OK. You can reach our office by calling (405) 951-8711.