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Medical
Dermatology - Acne
Acne is the term for the
blocked pores (blackheads and
whiteheads), pimples, and
deeper lumps (cysts or nodules)
that can appear typically on
the face, neck, chest, back,
shoulders and upper arms.
Seventeen million Americans
currently have acne, making it
the most common skin disease in
the country. While it affects
mostly teenagers, adults of any
age can have it. Acne is not
life-threatening, but it can
cause physical disfigurement
(scarring) and emotional
distress. Treatment varies
depending on the type and
severity of lesions, skin type
and the patient's age and
lifestyle, but on average
results are visible in six to
eight weeks. Options include:
Castle Dermatology Institute
offers customized skin care
products for treatment of Acne.
These treatments are also
effective in reducing the
appearance of scars and
discolorations associated with
acne.
Adolescent Acne
Studies show that during
adolescence close to 100% of
the population has at least an
occasional whitehead, blackhead
or pimple—regardless of race or
ethnicity. These studies also
confirm that acne most
frequently occurs between the
ages of 12 and 20. The
likelihood of developing acne
is greatest during adolescence
because hormone levels become
elevated.
Most mild
cases of acne can be controlled
at home by gently washing the
affected areas and using a
topical preparation, such as
benzoyl peroxide. If the
condition does not improve in 6
to 8 weeks, a dermatologist’s
help may be required. Acne that
ranges from moderate to severe
typically requires the help of a
dermatologist. The good news is
that today virtually every case
of acne can be controlled.
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