Acne

Several different factors can cause acne. This may include: 

• Hormonal changes. 
• Excess sebum production. 
• Slow cell turnover. 
• Diet. 
• C. acne bacteria.

In many cases, acne is a multifaceted problem, and the cause can be sometimes tricky to uncover, which is why we recommend visiting a board-certified dermatologist for a professional skin evaluation.

Yes, there are several different types of acne that people may get. The most common types of acne include: 

• Comedonal acne – Superficial form of acne resulting from clogged pores. Most commonly seen on the forehead or nose, but can appear anywhere on the skin as tiny, pinpoint bumps. Comedonal acne typically does not result in scarring. 
• Inflammatory acne – Inflamed, red, painful blemishes that are deeper than comedonal acne. Typically affects the face, neck, back, or chest. If not treated correctly, inflammatory acne may leave a scar. 
• Nodular/Cystic acne – This is a severe form of acne with large, pus-filled blemishes that grow deep into the skin and may be painful. This type of acne often leaves scars. 
• Hormonal acne – This type of acne is triggered by hormonal changes. For instance, elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) increase oil production, which may clog pores and cause acne. Hormonal acne can show up as whiteheads, blackheads, nodules, or cysts. 

For more information on the type of acne you may be experiencing, we recommend reaching out to an experienced board-certified dermatologist. If you’re in the Brentwood area, contact Brentwood Dermatology if you have any additional questions or concerns regarding acne.

Acne can certainly be painful, especially if it is deep, cystic acne, or inflammatory acne that penetrates further into the skin.

There are a few steps you can take to reduce the chances of an acne breakout. This includes preventative measures like: 

• Wash twice daily (no more!) with a gentle cleanser.
• Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water. When you’re dehydrated, your skin is dehydrated! 
• Get enough sleep. (Important for optimal cell turnover!) 
• Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet.
• Avoid using skincare products with comedogenic oils.
• Don’t over-exfoliate. (This often triggers excess sebum production.) 
• Change your pillowcases and bed sheets on a regular basis.

Ultimately, your skin is unique to you, and it will take some trial and error to find out what acne-preventing routine works for you! For more information on lifestyle changes and daily skincare habits you can implement to best take care of your skin, reach out to our board-certified dermatologists at Brentwood Dermatology.

There are several ways to treat acne. At Brentwood Dermatology, we create personalized acne treatment plans that depend on your unique skin situation. Our acne treatments usually include one or a combination of the following: 

• Topical Treatments – retinoids, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, purifying wash, spot treatment gel, and other topical treatments. 
• Oral Treatments – Oral antibiotics, often used in conjunction with a topical acne treatment. 
• Lifestyle Changes – We may recommend one of the acne prevention steps mentioned above to help keep your skin clean and clear. 

This depends on the type of acne treatment. At Brentwood Dermatology, there are a small amount of acne treatments we recommend during pregnancy. Stronger forms of acne medication are not recommended for pregnant women. This includes oral acne treatments like isotretinoin (more commonly known as Accutane) or oral antibiotics. 

It is best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist if you are pregnant and suffering from acne.

This depends on your personal insurance plan. In general, private and commercial health plans cover medications prescribed to treat acne. However, to determine exactly how much a particular drug will cost with your insurance, contact your insurance provider or review your unique insurance benefits and coverage.