Dermatologist in Colorado Springs, CO.

Acne is an incredibly common condition that we know a lot about and the best ways to treat it. Three things cause acne. Acne is a result of the clogging of pores with dead skin, oil, or bacteria. Just one or all three of the factors may be present and clogging your pores. Dr. Brett Matheson, Dr. Christopher Sartori, and Dr. Martin Harris from Skin Cancer & Dermatology Center of Colorado Springs are experienced dermatologists who will recommend the best acne treatment for you in Trinidad and Colorado Springs, CO.

What are the causes of acne?

It may surprise you to learn that acne has little to do with lifestyle factors. The appearance of acne mostly has to do with genetics, although external factors may contribute. Factors that lead to acne are:

• Genetic predisposition: Parents will most likely pass along acne issues they have had
• Hormones: For both genders, acne generally gets worse in puberty when testosterone levels are highest. And for women, acne tends to exacerbate around menstruation.
• Stress: Another hormonal factor caused by increased levels of cortisol.
• Frequently wearing hats and helmets: May lead to clogging of pores.
• High humidity/air pollution
• Certain medications
• Frequent contact with oil or grease: Regular use of greasy and oily personal care products may contribute to acne. Another example is working in a restaurant, and regularly having contact with grease and frying oil.

What are some acne treatments?

Acne ranges from being a mild nuisance to an extremely painful condition. No treatment option will work for everyone. Your dermatologist in Colorado Springs, CO will recommend acne treatment for you based on your situation and severity of acne. Treatment options include:

• Over-the-counter treatments: Topical ointments used for acne contain specific ingredients, including salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, sulfur and resorcinol, alcohol, and acetone, and retinoids. Your dermatologist can recommend the best one for you.
• Prescription medication: Birth control pills work to stabilize your hormones and are sometimes used to treat acne. Also, both topical and oral antibiotics may be prescribed.
• Isotretinoin: This medication is reserved for severe acne and is typically only recommended when other treatments have failed
• Laser and other light therapies: Results with these treatments tend to be less predictable, but can be an effective approach to acne treatment.
• Chemical peels: This procedure is generally used in the treatment of acne that consists of blackheads and papules. The process uses gentle chemicals to remove the top layer of skin. New skin grows underneath that will be smoother and have noticeably less scarring.
• Acne removal: A procedure involving using sterile tools to remove the contents of the clogged pores. Medication may be included during this process or suggested afterwards to prevent further inflammation or infection.

Contact us

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Matheson, Dr. Sartori, and Dr. Harris from Skin Cancer & Dermatology Center of Colorado Springs to receive the best acne treatment for you in Trinidad and Colorado Springs, CO. You can reach our office by calling (719) 574-0310, and in Trinidad, CO, at (800) 290-2478.