Acne Treatment in Buffalo, NY | Lisa Ball, NP PLLC
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions and can affect both teenagers and adults. While some people experience occasional breakouts, others may develop persistent acne that can lead to scarring, discoloration, or ongoing skin irritation.
At Lisa Ball, NP PLLC at the Neiman Dermatology Building in Buffalo, NY, we evaluate your skin and develop an individualized treatment plan based on the type and severity of your acne.
What Is Acne?
Acne develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. This can lead to blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and deeper inflammatory lesions.
Acne can appear on the face, chest, back, shoulders, and other areas of the body. The severity and appearance of acne can vary from person to person, which is why treatment is often individualized.
What Causes Acne?
Several factors can contribute to acne, including excess oil production, clogged pores, hormonal changes, inflammation, and genetics. Certain medications and other factors may also contribute to breakouts.
Acne is not simply the result of poor hygiene. Washing the skin too aggressively or using products that are irritating can sometimes make breakouts worse.
Types of Acne
Acne can take several forms, including:
- Blackheads and whiteheads: Non-inflammatory clogged pores that can appear as small bumps on the skin.
- Papules and pustules: Inflamed acne lesions that may appear red, swollen, or contain pus.
- Cysts and nodules: Deeper, more painful inflammatory lesions that may increase the risk of scarring.
- Adult acne: Acne that develops or continues into adulthood and may be influenced by hormonal changes and other factors.
Acne Treatment Options
Acne treatment depends on the type, location, and severity of your breakouts. Your provider may recommend a combination of treatments designed to address the underlying causes of acne and help prevent new breakouts.
Treatment options may include:
- Prescription topical treatments
- Prescription oral medications when appropriate
- Medical-grade skincare products
- Treatment plans for inflammatory or persistent acne
- Ongoing maintenance to help prevent future breakouts
The goal of treatment is not only to improve active breakouts, but also to help maintain clearer, healthier-looking skin over time.
When Should You Seek Acne Treatment?
You may benefit from professional acne treatment if your breakouts are persistent, painful, worsening, leaving marks or scars, or not improving with over-the-counter products.
Seeking treatment earlier may also help reduce the risk of acne-related scarring and discoloration.
Acne Treatment in Buffalo, NY
At Lisa Ball, NP PLLC at the Neiman Dermatology Building, we provide personalized medical dermatology care for patients with a wide range of skin conditions, including acne.
Our practice serves patients throughout Buffalo and surrounding communities, including Williamsville, Amherst, Clarence, Orchard Park, and East Aurora.
During your visit, your provider will evaluate your skin and discuss treatment options based on your individual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acne Treatment
What is the best treatment for acne?
The best treatment for acne depends on the type and severity of your breakouts, where they occur, how long you have had acne, and whether you are experiencing inflammation, discoloration, or scarring. Your provider can evaluate your skin and recommend an acne treatment plan based on your individual needs.
When should I see a provider for acne?
If your acne is persistent, painful, worsening, leaving dark spots or scars, or not improving with over-the-counter products, it may be time to seek professional treatment. Treating acne early can also help reduce the risk of long-term scarring.
How is adult acne treated?
Adult acne may require a different treatment approach depending on its cause and pattern. Hormonal changes, oil production, clogged pores, inflammation, and other factors can contribute to adult acne. Your provider can determine which treatments may be appropriate for your skin.
Can acne cause permanent scars?
Some types of acne, particularly deeper inflammatory acne such as nodules and cysts, can cause permanent scarring. Prompt treatment of persistent or severe acne may help reduce the risk of scarring. Acne can also leave temporary or persistent areas of discoloration after a breakout has healed.
How long does acne treatment take to work?
Acne treatment takes time, and improvement varies depending on the treatment and severity of the acne. Consistent use of your recommended treatment plan is important. Your provider can explain what to expect and determine whether your treatment should be adjusted over time.
Can acne be treated if over-the-counter products are not working?
Yes. If over-the-counter acne products have not provided enough improvement, a professional evaluation can help determine whether prescription treatment or another approach may be appropriate. Treatment can be adjusted based on the type and severity of your acne.
