Acne in West Houston, TX

Acne is among one of the most prevalent skin conditions in the U.S., affecting about 60 million people each year. In general, most people have mild acne that they can clear up with medication and a regular, at-home cleansing regimen. Unfortunately, many individuals suffer from severe acne, which causes scarring. Acne generally is a mix of pimples, whiteheads, blackheads, and small cysts, as well as other itchy, red, and inflamed areas on the skin. Caused by a combination of clogged pores, dead skin cells, and bacteria, we most frequently diagnose teens, but it can affect adults well into their 40s. Acne most commonly shows up on the face, torso, and back. To return your skin to a healthier, luminous appearance, Dr. Catherine Papasakelariou at Houston Premier Dermatology in Houston, TX can provide numerous treatment choices, ranging from personalized at-home cleansing systems to medications and laser treatments. 

A "flare-up" of acne can occur for a number of different reasons, including hormonal changes related to pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. In addition, certain drugs and medications (like the birth control pill) can lead to acne, as well as anxiety and a poor diet. Once the exact cause of acne is diagnosed, we will establish a suitable treatment program.

Depending on the type of acne you have and the severity, acne symptoms will greatly vary. Typically, patients observe blemishes, such as blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, pustules, papules, and nodules. Each type of blemish ranges from mild to severe, and during your consultation, we will help you select the best treatment plan for you. Studies have shown that acne may also create emotional symptoms, like lowered self-confidence and depression. Other symptoms associated with acne include dark areas on the skin and lasting scars.

Research suggests that over-the-counter drugs don't treat acne efficiently. Houston Premier Dermatology offers numerous treatment options to control, manage, and clear its symptoms. For milder cases of acne, prescription medications, such as topical solutions and creams that contain retinoids, salicylic acid, sulfur, and benzoyl peroxide, might help. Additionally, we may prescribe oral antibiotics, such as tetracycline, minocycline, or doxycycline, that help stop or reduce your acne. Along with topical and oral prescriptions, laser therapies have also proven effective. Not only can laser treatments cleanse and kill skin cells beneath the top skin layer, but it can also decrease inflammation and other acne-related pigmentation issues. Extractions and chemical peels may also help, but it primarily depends on the type of acne.

For patients tired of covering their acne with makeup or enduring the physical discomfort, humiliation, or psychological affliction that can develop from this condition, we encourage you to contact and schedule an appointment with Dr. Papasakelariou at Houston Premier Dermatology in Houston, TX. During the consultation, she will perform a comprehensive skin analysis and create a tailored treatment plan for a clearer complexion.