Acne, or pimples, occurs when pores get clogged (with dead skin, oils, bacteria). It can be mild to severe. It includes white heads, black heads, inflamed lesions, and cyst like lesions. Acne often causes psychological effects including decreased self-esteem, depression, and anxiety due to its appearance.
Home Care:
- Do not pop or squeeze acne; this can worsen acne, damage skin/cause scarring, or lead to infections
- Wash face 2x per day w/ mild face wash (Cetaphil, Cerave, etc.)
- Avoid oil based make-up and skin products
- Use an oil free moisturizer
- You can try OTC (over-the-counter) acne medications but if no improvement in 2-3 months, make an appointment with your provider
- OTC medications include acne face washes (Proactive, Neutrogena Acne Wash, etc.), topical treatments (benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, Differin Gel)
- Prescription treatments include topical and oral preparations
Combination therapies are usually 1st line treatment
