Acne

What Is Acne?

Acne is a very common skin condition. It can show up as blackheads, whiteheads, red bumps, pus-filled pimples, or deeper, painful nodules. Acne most often affects the face, chest, back, and shoulders—areas with a high number of oil glands—but it can occur at any age, not just during the teenage years.

Acne is not caused by poor hygiene. It is a medical skin condition influenced by hormones, genetics, inflammation, and how your skin responds to oil and bacteria.

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Why Acne Happens 

Acne develops when several factors come together:

1. Excess Oil Production

Your skin naturally produces oil (sebum) to protect and moisturize itself. Hormonal changes—especially androgens—can signal the oil glands to produce too much oil, which increases the risk of clogged pores.

2. Clogged Pores

Dead skin cells are meant to shed naturally. When they stick together and mix with excess oil, they block the pore, forming blackheads and whiteheads.

3. Bacteria and Inflammation

A normal skin bacterium called Cutibacterium acnes can multiply inside clogged pores. This triggers inflammation, leading to red, swollen, and sometimes painful breakouts.

4. Hormonal Influences

Hormonal fluctuations related to puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, stress, or certain medical conditions can worsen acne. This is why many adults—especially women—experience persistent or cyclical acne.

5. Genetics and Lifestyle Factors

Family history, stress levels, diet, sleep quality, and certain skincare or hair products can all influence acne severity.

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How Acne Is Treated

There is no one-size-fits-all acne treatment. Effective care focuses on treating active breakouts, preventing new ones, and protecting the skin long-term.

 

Topical Treatments (Applied to the Skin)

These are often the foundation of acne care:

• Retinoids help unclog pores, normalize skin cell turnover, and prevent future breakouts

• Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agents reduce acne-causing bacteria and calm redness

• Oil- and pore-targeting treatments help control excess sebum

 

Oral Medications (When Needed)

For moderate to severe acne or hormonal patterns:

• Oral antibiotics may be used short-term to reduce inflammation

• Hormonal therapies (such as certain oral contraceptives or anti-androgen medications) help balance hormone-driven acne

• Isotretinoin may be considered for severe, scarring, or treatment-resistant acne

 

In-Office Treatments

These can accelerate results and improve skin texture:

• Medical-grade chemical peels

• Acne-focused facials and extractions

• Light- and energy-based treatments for inflammation and scarring

 

Lifestyle & Functional Medicine Support

Acne often reflects what is happening beneath the surface. Supporting overall health can improve skin outcomes.

Nutrition

• Focus on whole foods, lean proteins, vegetables, and healthy fats

• Some patients benefit from reducing high-glycemic foods and excess dairy

• Stay hydrated to support skin barrier function

 

Stress & Sleep

• Chronic stress increases cortisol, which can worsen oil production and inflammation

• Aim for consistent, restorative sleep to support hormonal balance

 

Gut & Hormonal Health

• Digestive health and hormone regulation play a role in skin inflammation

• In select cases, targeted supplements may be recommended based on individual needs

 

Skincare Habits

• Use non-comedogenic (pore-safe) products

• Avoid harsh scrubs or over-washing, which can worsen inflammation

• Consistency matters—acne treatments take time to work

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Why Early Treatment Matters

Untreated acne can lead to:

• Dark spots and discoloration

• Permanent scarring

• Ongoing inflammation and skin sensitivity

Early, personalized treatment helps protect your skin and improve long-term outcomes.

 

Our Approach

We take a comprehensive, individualized approach to acne care—addressing the visible breakouts, the underlying causes, and your overall skin health. Whether you’re dealing with teenage acne, adult hormonal acne, or persistent breakouts, we work with you to create a clear, effective plan you can realistically follow.

Clearer skin is achievable—with the right strategy and support.