Acne can be more than just a cosmetic concern; it can impact your confidence and quality of life. At DermaBlue, we understand the frustration that comes with persistent acne and are committed to providing effective, personalized solutions that get to the root of the problem. Our skilled providers use the latest techniques and treatments to uncover the underlying cause of your acne and help you achieve clear, healthy skin.
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It can manifest as blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, cysts, or nodules, and can appear on the face, chest, back, and shoulders. While acne is most common during adolescence, it can affect individuals of all ages.
Here a few common factors that can also contribute to acne:
Sebaceous glands in the skin produce an oily substance called sebum. When these glands produce too much sebum, it can mix with dead skin cells and clog hair follicles, leading to acne.
Normally, dead skin cells are shed from the skin’s surface. However, when excess oil is present, these cells can become trapped inside the hair follicles, forming a plug. This plug can lead to the development of blackheads or whiteheads.
Normally, dead skin cells are shed from the skin’s surface. However, when excess oil is present, these cells can become trapped inside the hair follicles, forming a plug. This plug can lead to the development of blackheads or whiteheads.
Normally, dead skin cells are shed from the skin’s surface. However, when excess oil is present, these cells can become trapped inside the hair follicles, forming a plug. This plug can lead to the development of blackheads or whiteheads.
Hormones, particularly androgens, increase during puberty and can lead to the enlargement of sebaceous glands and increased sebum production. Hormonal fluctuations related to menstruation, pregnancy, and the use of certain contraceptives can also trigger acne in women.
Inflammation is a natural immune response, but in the case of acne, it can cause the walls of clogged follicles to break, leading to the formation of more severe types of acne like nodules or cysts.
Some studies suggest that certain foods, particularly those high in refined sugars and dairy products, may exacerbate acne. However, the relationship between diet and acne is complex and varies from person to person.
Stress doesn’t directly cause acne, but it can worsen the condition. When stressed, the body produces more androgens, leading to increased oil production and potential acne flare-ups.
Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, androgens, and lithium, can cause or worsen acne.
Using oily or greasy cosmetics can block pores and lead to the development of acne, especially if they’re not labeled as non-comedogenic (products that don’t clog pores).
Acne can run in families. If your parents had acne, you’re more likely to develop it as well. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not treatable! We can help you get the clear skin you’ve always wanted.
At DermaBlue, we offer a wide range of acne treatments tailored to meet your unique skin needs. Our approach begins with a thorough consultation and skin analysis to identify the underlying causes of your acne. From there, we create a customized treatment plan that may include one or more of the following:
Prescription Topical Medications
Customized formulas including retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and antibiotics to reduce inflammation and clear blocked pores.
Over-the-Counter Products
High-quality, dermatologist-recommended products to complement your prescription regimen.
Antibiotics
To reduce bacteria and inflammation from within.
Oral Contraceptives
For women, birth control pills can regulate hormones and reduce acne.
Isotretinoin (Accutane)
A powerful medication for severe, cystic acne that has not responded to other treatments.
Chemical Peels
Exfoliate the skin to reduce acne and improve skin texture.
Laser and Light Therapy
Target and destroy acne-causing bacteria and reduce oil production.
Microneedling
Stimulates collagen production to heal acne scars and improve skin tone.
Corticosteroid Injections
Rapidly reduce inflammation in painful cysts.
Personalized skincare plans designed to maintain clear skin and prevent future breakouts, using only the best products and techniques suited for your skin type.
In addition to diagnosing and treating the underlying causes of acne, we can help get rid of acne scarring from previous outbreaks. We offer a wide range of cosmetic treatments to help reduce or eliminate scarring, depending on the treatment and severity.
is the only long-term filler that’s FDA approved to treat distensible acne scars for longer than one year. In just one office visit, you can safely treat your acne scars and leave feeling confident that you’ll look your best.
Tiny pinpricks from a needle can help stimulate the skin’s natural healing responses and stimulate collagen production to reduce acne scarring and redness.
Radio-frequency energy can be paired with microneedling to treat scars. This dermatologist acne treatments heat the dermis and cause new skin to form. After several treatments, acne scars may appear less noticeable.
Learn more about RF Microneedling here.
This is a skin resurfacing procedure that uses a laser to remove the outermost layers of skin, which trigger a healing response that improves the appearance of your skin.
High-potency acid is applied to your skin to remove the top layer and minimize deeper scars.
We’ve been serving the communities of Asheville and Hendersonville for over 15 years and take great pride in helping our patients take care of their skin. Our team of providers has extensive experience in treating acne of all types and severities and we use state-of-the-art equipment and the latest treatment techniques to deliver the best possible results. Every patient is unique, and so is our approach. We take the time to understand your skin and tailor a treatment plan that works for you. Acne treatment is an ongoing process, and we provide continued care and support to ensure your skin stays clear and healthy.
Don’t let acne hold you back any longer. Take the first step towards clearer, healthier skin by booking a consultation with our dermatology experts. Call us at (828) 585-5489 or schedule an appointment online. We look forward to helping you achieve the skin you’ve always wanted.
Effective acne treatments vary depending on the severity and type of acne you have. For mild acne, topical treatments like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinoids are often first-line options. Moderate acne may require prescription topical antibiotics or oral medications like antibiotics or hormonal treatments. Severe acne often responds well to isotretinoin (Accutane) or professional treatments like chemical peels, laser therapy, or extractions. The key is finding the right combination for your specific skin type and acne pattern, which is why consulting with a dermatologist is so important.
Most acne treatments require patience, as skin cell turnover takes time. Topical treatments typically show initial improvements in 4 to 6 weeks, with more significant results after 8 to 12 weeks of consistent use. Oral medications may work faster, with some people seeing improvements in 2 to 4 weeks. However, it can take 3 to 6 months to see the full benefits of most acne treatments. It’s important not to give up too early, as many effective treatments may initially cause some dryness or irritation before skin improves.
Avoid over-washing or scrubbing your face, as this can irritate skin and worsen acne. Don’t pick, squeeze, or pop pimples, which can lead to scarring and spread bacteria. Avoid using too many acne products at once, as this can cause excessive dryness and irritation. Stay away from heavy, pore-clogging moisturizers and makeup, and always remove makeup thoroughly before bed. Also avoid switching treatments too frequently, as most need several weeks to show results.
Adult acne is very common, especially in women, and can occur even if you never had acne as a teenager. Adult acne is often hormonal and typically appears along the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks, while teenage acne more commonly affects the forehead and upper face. Adult acne may be more persistent and slower to heal than teenage acne. Treatment approaches are similar, but adults may benefit more from hormonal treatments, gentler products to avoid over-drying mature skin, and combination therapies that address both acne and early signs of aging.
You should consider seeing a dermatologist if over-the-counter treatments haven’t improved your acne after 6 to 8 weeks, if you have moderate to severe acne with deep, painful cysts, if acne is leaving scars, or if it’s significantly affecting your self-esteem and daily life. A dermatologist can also help if you’re experiencing adult-onset acne, have acne that’s getting worse despite treatment, or need guidance on the best treatment approach for your specific skin type and lifestyle. Professional treatments and prescription medications are often more effective than what’s available over the counter.
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NEW PATIENTS GET $100 OFF ANY COSMETIC TREATMENT
Take the first step towards your aesthetic goals with our complimentary 30-minute consultation. Simply fill out the form below and a patient care coordinator will be in touch shortly to help you schedule your consultation.
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NEW PATIENTS GET $100 OFF ANY COSMETIC TREATMENT
Take the first step towards your aesthetic goals with our complimentary 30-minute consultation. Simply fill out the form below and a patient care coordinator will be in touch shortly to help you schedule your consultation.
"*" indicates required fields
Take the first step towards your aesthetic goals with our complimentary 30-minute consultation. Simply fill out the form below and a patient care coordinator will be in touch shortly to help you schedule your consultation.
"*" indicates required fields
NEW PATIENTS GET $100 OFF ANY COSMETIC TREATMENT
Take the first step towards your aesthetic goals with our complimentary 30-minute consultation. Simply fill out the form below and a patient care coordinator will be in touch shortly to help you schedule your consultation.