Serving the Bergen County, NJ and Tri-State Area
What Is Acne?
As most teenagers and many adults know, acne is a common skin condition that is often just a nuisance, but in some cases, the acne is severe enough to cause scarring and can negatively affect a person’s self-image. Acne is one of the most common conditions treated by Dr. Rebecca Baxt.
Medically speaking, acne (Acne Vulgaris) is a condition that affects the skin’s oil glands at the base of hair follicles. During puberty the oil glands begin to secrete more sebum (oily substance) which can cause the follicles to become plugged and bacteria to form which causes pimples, whiteheads, blackheads and in some cases nodules and cysts.
There a various types of acne including:
- Comedonal Acne – clogged pores
- Inflammatory Acne – whiteheads, blackheads and pimples (more common in men)
- Cystic Acne – when infections penetrates deeply into the skin, causing red bumps full of pus
- Hormonal-onset Acne – Occurs in women when estrogen levels decline.
Acne is more severe in males in their teenage years, but often females have a tougher time in their twenties and thirties. Dr. Rebecca Baxt treats many patients who have acne into their forties and fifties.
Dr. Rebecca Baxt advises that since each patient’s skin is different, care must be exercised in treating acne especially when it comes to home or over-the-counter treatments. If over the counter treatments are not working, it is time to see a board-certified dermatologist!
Listen to Dr. Baxt’s Podcast on Acne
What Are Some Of The Common Causes Of Acne?
Acne occurs when the follicle of an oil gland clogs. Acne can occur on the face, chest, and back. There are some things that can make acne worse or outbreaks more frequent. These include:
- Fluctuating hormone levels before a woman’s menstrual cycle starts
- Pollution
- Picking or squeezing pimples (DON’T DO THIS!)
- Over scrubbing (irritating) the skin
- Stress
However, contrary to popular belief foods are not the major cause of acne, although in selected patients there can be a food sensitivity. Common food culprits include sugar, alcohol, dairy, chocolate, oily foods, high glycemic index foods. Each patient is different.
What Causes Acne Scarring?
Some types of acne are more likely to cause scarring than other types. For example, a simple whitehead or blackheads do not cause scarring. But inflammatory or cystic acne can cause noticeable scarring. Some acne patients may be prone to scarring due to:
- Family history or genetics
- Lack of early treatment
- Picking or causing trauma to the skin
Acne scarring can affect a person’s self-esteem and quality of life. With advanced treatments, scarring can be corrected.*
Take Control Of Your Acne!
Schedule your consultation by contacting us online or by calling 201-265-1300 today.
The following are the most effective treatment plans for Acne and Acne Scarring. Please click on the links below to obtain the information you desire:
Dr. Rebecca Baxt will recommend an acne treatment that is right for your specific acne.
*Results may vary for different patients and are not guaranteed.
Let our family treat your family, a legacy you can trust!
Rebecca Baxt, M.D., M.B.A, F.A.A.D.
Cosmetic And Medical Dermatology Office Located in Paramus, NJ (serving Bergen County, NJ communities)
