Medical Services

Acne

Acne may be mild (a few, occasional pimples), moderate (inflammatory papules), or severe (nodules and cysts). Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. 2

Expert Care For Acne

Most people develop acne– the most common skin condition — to some degree, but it primarily affects teenagers undergoing hormonal changes. Northwest Dermatology Group is your source for acne treatment in Bingham Farms and the surrounding areas.

Acne may be mild (a few, occasional pimples), moderate (inflammatory papules), or severe (nodules and cysts). Treatment depends on the severity of the condition.

What Causes Acne?

Acne is primarily a hormonal condition driven by male or ‘androgenic’ hormones, which typically become active during the teenage years. Sensitivity to such hormones, combined with bacteria on the skin, and fatty acids within oil glands, cause acne. Common sites for acne are the face, chest, shoulders, and back — the sites of oil glands.

Acne lesions include whiteheads, blackheads, small bumps, and nodules and cysts.

Though acne is essentially a normal physiologic occurrence, certain conditions may aggravate the condition, including:

Fluctuating hormone levels around the time of menses (women)
Manipulating (picking/prodding) acne lesions
Clothing (for example, hats and sports helmets) and headgear

Acne Treatment

Only three types of drugs have proven to be effective for the treatment of acne — benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, and antibiotics. Most people require at least one or two agents, depending on the severity of their acne.

Benzoyl peroxide, available as an over-the-counter product (for example, Clearasil, Stridex) and by prescription (for example, Benoxyl, PanOxyl, Persagel), targets surface bacteria, which often aggravate acne. Irritation (dryness) is a common side effect.
Retinoids (vitamin A derivatives), for example, Retin-A, Differin, Tazorac, treat blackheads and whiteheads, the first lesions of acne. The most common side effect is irritation.
Antibiotics, either topically applied to the skin (clindamycin, erythromycin), or taken orally (tetracycline and its derivatives) control surface bacteria and reduce inflammation in the skin. Antibiotics are more effective when combined with benzoyl peroxide or retinoids. The oral retinoid isotretinoin is reserved for people with severe (nodular or cystic) disease. Isotretinoin shrinks the size of oil glands, the anatomic origin of acne. Without active, plump oil glands, acne actively diminishes. Side effects can include dry skin, elevated cholesterol and triglycerides, and birth defects. Women of childbearing age must practice birth control before, during, and after treatment (often a year) with isotretinoin. The use of isotretinoin requires rigorous testing (cholesterol, pregnancy) and follow-up for the prescribed period (5 months). It is reserved for the most severe types of acne that do not respond to other treatments.
Hormone therapy may be helpful for some women with acne, especially for those with signs and symptoms (irregular periods, thinning hair) of androgen (male hormone) excess. The hormone therapy consists of low-dose estrogen and progesterone (birth control pills).

Acne Prevention

To prevent acne and reduce its damage to your skin, follow these tips.

Choose a cleanser specially formulated for acne. These products often contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which help to clear acne sores.
Clean your face gently, as trauma to the acne breakouts may worsen the acne or cause scarring. When washing your face, use your hands, as any terrycloth or other scrubbing material may cause acne sores to rupture.
If you need to use a moisturizer, use only light, noncomedogenic moisturizers, which do not aggravate acne. This type of product may be your best option.
If you are a woman, use an oil-free foundation. Heavy makeup or other cosmetic products that block pores may cause a flare-up of acne.

FAQ Acne

Can acne cause permanent scarring?

Yes. Research published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that roughly 47% of acne patients develop some degree of scarring. The risk increases with severity: moderate acne doubles the odds compared to mild cases, and severe acne raises the risk more than fivefold. Deep, inflammatory lesions like cysts and nodules are the most likely to leave lasting marks. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, picking or squeezing breakouts significantly increases the chance of permanent scarring, which is why early professional treatment matters.

Why am I still getting acne as an adult?

Adult acne is more common than most people realize. While teenage acne is driven by puberty-related hormone surges, adult breakouts are often linked to fluctuating hormones from menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopause, or conditions like PCOS. The Cleveland Clinic notes that stress, environmental factors, oil-based products, and even certain medications can also trigger adult acne. Because adult skin heals more slowly and produces less collagen than younger skin, breakouts in your 30s and beyond may actually scar more easily than they did in your teens.

When should I see a dermatologist for acne instead of treating it myself?

If over-the-counter products have not improved your acne after 8 to 12 weeks, or if you are developing deep, painful cysts or nodules, it is time for professional help. The AAD emphasizes that early dermatological intervention is one of the best ways to prevent permanent scarring. A dermatologist can prescribe treatments like prescription retinoids, oral antibiotics, or hormonal therapy that are not available over the counter, and can tailor a plan specific to your acne type and skin.