Let's Talk All Things Acne

June is Acne Awareness Month.
Join Dermatology Consultants experts as they share pearls on recognizing triggers, treating acne and maintaining healthy, glowing skin:
* Anna Pare', MD - President
* Kiera Webb, LME - Laser Technician
* Megan Webb, LME - Laser Technician
* Cady Holbrook, LME - Laser Technician
Categories of Acne are:
Mild Acne: A person will mostly develop blackheads and whiteheads in mild acne.
Moderate Acne: Papules and pustules are more noticeable in moderate acne, and pay present with a higher number of blackheads and whiteheads.
Severe Acne: With severe acne, a patient may experience a higher number of large and painful papules, pustules, nodules, and/or cysts.
WHAT CAUSES ACNE?
Acne triggers may include but are not limited to:
* Fluctuation in hormones
* Stress
* Cosmetics / topicals that are oil based
* Certain medications (steroids, testosterone, estrogen)
* Humidity and excessive perspiration / sweating
* Excessively touching, picking the skin
* Believe it or not...your dirty cellphone screen can be a culprit
Each category of acne lesions may require different topicals and/or treatments ranging from chemical peels, deep cleansing facials ( HydraFacial), LED light therapy, laser treatments, microneedling, medical grade skincare, RX topicals and or oral.
Below are the most common types of blemishes associated with acne:
* Closed comedones, or whiteheads
* Open comedones, or blackheads
* Pustules, or pimples
* Papules
* Cysts
* Nodules
Things you can do to minimize acne flare-ups:
* Drink water ( water with lemon is a PLUS )
* Hydrate your skin - oil free moisturizer
* Use mineral based make-up when possible
* Clean your make-up brushes and sponges
* Clean your cellphone screen throughout the day
* Exfoliate regularly ( with nonabrasive products )
* Watch your diet - eating cleaner is essential
* Do not pick
* Keep hair clean and off your face
* Splash your skin off post work out ( gently cleanse if possible )
* Stay consistent with your skincare routine
* Exercise
* Avoid stress ( find your happy place to EXHALE )
* Minimize excess direct sunlight
* Call your dermatologist and schedule your next appt to review care and next steps.
Dermatology Consultants has 3 locations to care for our patients:
* Atlanta - 85+ years
* Covington - 20 years
* Decatur ( NEW )
TAKE AWAY: Staying CONSISTENT with your preventative care, and selecting the correct treatment can reduce the risk of long-term skin complications, including, hyper or hypopigmentation, pitting and scarring.
"Maybe she's born with it...maybe it's the results of her acne journey?"