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 develop persistent acne that can cause inflammation, dark spots, and permanent scarring.

At Lisa Ball, NP PLLC at the Neiman Dermatology Building in Buffalo, NY, we provide acne evaluation and treatment based on the type and severity of your acne. Your provider will assess your skin and discuss options to address active breakouts, help prevent future flare-ups, and help reduce the risk of acne-related scarring.

What Is Acne and What Causes It?

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.

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.

Acne Treatment for Teens and Adults

Acne can affect people at different stages of life. Teen acne is often associated with changes in hormones and increased oil production, while adult acne may continue from adolescence or develop for the first time in adulthood.

Treatment depends on the individual’s skin, the type of acne present, and how severe or persistent the breakouts are. Your provider can recommend an appropriate treatment approach based on your specific needs.

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 and severity of your breakouts, your skin’s response to previous treatments, and whether you are experiencing inflammation or scarring. Your provider may recommend one treatment or a combination of approaches.

Treatment options may include:

• Prescription topical acne medications: Certain topical treatments help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, or address acne-causing bacteria.
• Prescription oral medications: For some patients with persistent, widespread, or more severe acne, oral medications may be appropriate.
• Skincare products: Appropriate cleansers, moisturizers, and other skincare products can support your treatment plan and help reduce irritation.
• Maintenance treatment: Continuing an appropriate skincare and medication routine can help control acne and reduce future breakouts.

The right approach depends on your individual skin and medical history. Your provider can evaluate your acne and discuss suitable treatment options, including ways to help reduce the risk of lasting scars and discoloration.

Acne and Acne Scarring

Persistent or severe acne can increase the risk of permanent scarring. Picking or squeezing acne can also increase the risk of scarring and discoloration. Treating active acne early can help reduce the likelihood of long-term skin changes.

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.