What is Acne?
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the U.S., affecting approximately 60 million people each year. While many cases are mild and can be controlled with medication and a consistent at-home cleansing regimen, millions have it severe enough that scarring can occur. Acne generally is a combination of pimples, “zits,” whiteheads, blackheads, small cysts, and other red, itchy, and inflamed areas on the skin. Caused by a combination of clogged pores, dead skin cells, and bacteria, it is most often seen in teenagers but can affect adults well into their 40s. Acne most commonly appears on the face, chest, and back. Our team of board-certified dermatologists at Snyder Dermatology can offer numerous treatment options, ranging from custom systems to medications and laser treatments, to get the skin back to a healthy, glowing appearance.
What Causes Acne?
A “flare-up” of acne can occur for several different reasons, including hormonal fluctuations associated with puberty, pregnancy, or menopause. Certain medications and drugs, such as testosterone replacement, can also cause acne, as can stress and a high glycemic index diet. Once the exact cause of acne is diagnosed, a proper treatment plan can be established.
Symptoms of Acne
Acne symptoms vary in combination with the type of acne and its severity. Blemishes are a common, most visible symptom of acne and come in many different forms. Types of blemishes include blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, pustules, papules, and nodules. Each type of blemish ranges from mild to severe and will need to be treated accordingly. Studies have shown that acne can create emotional symptoms as well, which include low self-esteem and depression. Other symptoms associated with acne are dark spots on the skin and permanent scars.
Everyone here was so helpful and kind. I haven’t had many Dermatologists who took my case seriously and they were so professional and thorough. I would definitely recommend this office to anyone!
-Brian C.
“Dr. Rene Snyder is saving me from skin cancer. Over the years she has found numerous precancer spots on me, each time treating them with great care and minimal discomfort. And she offers a wide range of cosmetic treatments so I can age gracefully. I’m a lifelong fan.”
-Kim S.
Dr. Parker has been my dermatologist for years, and she is terrific. She saw my 14-year-old for the first time yesterday yesterday, and was very thorough, knowledgeable, and kind. She guided her through a skin care routine, and gave her lots of tips about keeping her skin fresh. We feel so lucky to know Dr. Parker.
-Sarah K.
Board-Certified Dermatologists
MEET OUR DOCTORS
Snyder Dermatology is the premier practice for medical and cosmetic dermatology in Austin, TX. Centrally located, our dynamic team of board certified dermatologists focus on providing patients with the most advanced medical care and treatment options. Our practice is distinguished by our compassion, our desire to fully understand our patients’ needs, and our commitment to being good stewards in the communities where we live and work.
How to Treat Acne
Research shows that over-the-counter medications are not proven to effectively treat severe acne. Our dermatology office offers numerous treatment options to control and manage acne and clear its symptoms. For milder cases of acne, prescription medications such as topical solutions and creams that contain sulfur, retinoids, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide can help. Oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline, minocycline, or tetracycline, are also effective. In addition to topical and oral prescriptions, laser treatments have also proven to be effective. Not only can laser treatment help to deep clean and attack dead skin cells under the dermal layer, but it can also help reduce redness and other pigmentation issues associated with acne. Chemical peels and extractions may also help depending on the type of acne the patient is experiencing.
How to Treat Acne Scars
Acne scarring results from inflammation in the skin’s lower layer called the dermis, which causes the collagen to become deformed or scarred, resulting in depressions in the skin. Snyder Dermatology treats acne scars with laser technology, including laser skin resurfacing using the state-of-the-art fractional laser, which can result in up to a 50% improvement in scarring. In addition, certain fillers can be used to fill in scar “pits” left by severe acne. Using a combination of laser technology, chemical peels, microneedling, dermabrasion or injectable fillers can help smooth scarring. Overall, a decrease in the appearance of scars results in leaving the complexion smooth and clear.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are tired of covering your acne with makeup and enduring the physical pain, embarrassment, and emotional affliction that can develop from this condition, we encourage you to call our dermatology office to schedule an appointment today. We will provide a thorough skin analysis and create a tailored treatment plan to help clear up your complexion as quickly as possible.