Acne is one of those skin conditions that nearly everyone must deal with at some point. Some people can keep it under control with proper hygiene in combination with over-the-counter ointments. If you are like so many others, it’s not that simple. The trick is in knowing when to quit trying to treat it on your own and seek professional help. This is where a little basic understanding of the nature of acne can be important. Since acne can vary in type, and because individuals react to these types differently, knowing when to seek acne treatment from the professionals is important.
Acne can form due to hormonal changes. This is why people in their teenage years seem to struggle with it the most. These changes can cause the skin to produce additional oil. The oil can then clog the pores and lead to the development of acne. Two of the most common signs of acne at this stage are the presence of blackheads and whiteheads. Open pores will let air contact the oil that has built up. The reaction between the oil and the air causes the oil to turn black and develop blackheads. Whiteheads occur because the oil has not yet contacted the air. Its natural color is white, and it will remain so if it is not exposed to the atmosphere.
The condition can progress to the point of causing inflammation of the skin. Any redness that accompanies the blackheads, whiteheads or pimples is a sign of this inflammation. It may also cause some discomforts like itching and burning. This is when you should seriously consider getting professional acne treatment. Doing so will help you to get over the condition quicker, and it will save you a significant amount of discomfort. Most importantly, it will stop the acne before it reaches the point at which you are at risk for permanent scarring of the skin.
When the inflammatory acne gives way to infection, the most serious form of acne can develop. This is the type that causes permanent damage. Even after the acne itself is long gone, the evidence is still present in the form of scarring on the face.
Obviously, the best way to deal with acne scarring is to prevent the acne from reaching that level in the first place. The best way to do that is to seek acne treatment sooner rather than later. Since you don’t always know in advance how your skin is going to respond, it is best not to take a chance with your future and go ahead and get help. Doing so will take the guesswork out of trying to figure out what type of acne you are facing. It will also take the guesswork out of finding a treatment that works.
Make an appointment at Old Town Medspa in Chicago to learn about your options for professional acne treatment. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
