In our last post, we covered two very different forms of acne and how to treat them. In total there are four distinct types of acne that all have different causes and should all be dealt with differently. For a treatment to be effective, you must first determine which type of acne you suffer from. This guide will help you figure out your type, and help you treat it.
Cystic Acne
Cystic acne is the most severe type of acne, characterized by deep inflammation in the skin. This type most often leads to scarring. It can be painful and requires aggressive treatment.
- How to treat cystic acne: Most often, the only recourse for dealing with cystic acne is to seek professional help from a dermatologist. Prescription medication like Accutane is often prescribed in conjunction with a topical treatment. A combination of oral antibiotics and a strict skincare regimen recommended by your dermatologist can help you combat cystic acne.
Hormonal-onset Acne
Hormonal acne, unlike most other types of acne, is found in women in their 20s and 30s, rather than a teenager going through puberty. It is usually found on the lower part of the face and can be caused by a drop in estrogen levels. It usually forms during or around the time of your period.
- How to treat hormonal-onset acne: For hormonal acne, birth control is often an effective treatment because it works to balance your hormones. If birth control isn’t for you, you can also try testosterone-blockers like spironolactone.
The best advice for any acne . . .
While not all acne is the same, there are a few things that you should do to protect your skin no matter which type you suffer from – Don’t pop your pimples! Popping or picking at zits can lead to scarring, which can be even more difficult to treat than the acne itself. It can also cause even more bacteria to get under your skin, leading to more severe acne.
If you’re dealing with acne, make an appointment.
