Acne

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions we treat, affecting millions of teenagers and adults every year. While many cases improve with over the counter products, persistent or severe acne often requires medical treatment to prevent ongoing breakouts, permanent scarring, and unnecessary frustration.

At Midwest Dermatology, our board certified dermatologists and advanced practice providers create personalized treatment plans based on your skin, your lifestyle, and the type of acne you have. Whether you’re dealing with occasional breakouts, painful cystic acne, or adult acne that has appeared later in life, we’re here to help.

What Causes Acne?

Acne develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Hormones, genetics, certain medications, stress, and cosmetics can all contribute to breakouts.

Acne can appear almost anywhere, but it most commonly affects the:

Face
Chest
Back
Shoulders

Because several different conditions can resemble acne, an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment.

Why See a Dermatologist?

Every person’s acne is different. What works for one patient may not work for another, and delaying treatment can increase the risk of permanent acne scars.

A dermatologist can determine:

The type of acne you have.
What’s contributing to your breakouts.
Whether prescription treatment is appropriate.
How to safely prevent future scarring.

Our goal is simple: clear today’s breakouts, prevent tomorrow’s breakouts, and keep your skin healthy for the long term.

Treatment Options

Your treatment plan will depend on the severity of your acne, your age, your skin type, and whether scarring is already developing. Many patients achieve excellent results with a combination of therapies.

Topical Medications

Prescription creams and gels often form the foundation of acne treatment. Depending on your needs, your provider may recommend topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, topical antibiotics, or combination medications to reduce clogged pores, inflammation, and acne-causing bacteria.

Oral Medications

For more widespread or inflammatory acne, oral medications may be recommended. These may include antibiotics, hormonal therapies for appropriate patients, or isotretinoin for severe or treatment resistant acne.

In Office Treatments

Some patients benefit from physician-directed procedures to help manage acne or quickly reduce painful inflammation. Your provider will discuss whether any in office treatments would be beneficial as part of your overall treatment plan.

Patients interested in professional acne facials, chemical peels, extractions, or treatments for acne scars can also explore services available through Midwest DERMaesthetics.

Acne Scars

Acne may heal, but the scars can last a lifetime. Early treatment is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of permanent scarring.

If scarring has already developed, we offer several treatment options that can improve the appearance of acne scars. Your provider will recommend the most appropriate approach based on the type and severity of your scarring.

What Results Can I Expect?

Acne treatment requires patience. Most treatments take several weeks to begin showing improvement, and your plan may be adjusted as your skin responds.

Our focus is not simply treating today’s breakout. We work with you to:

Reduce active acne.
Prevent future breakouts.
Minimize the risk of scarring.
Improve the long term health and appearance of your skin.

With consistent treatment and follow up, most patients experience significant improvement.

Schedule Your Acne Evaluation

You don’t have to manage acne alone.

Whether you’re a teenager experiencing acne for the first time or an adult frustrated by persistent breakouts, our providers can help you find a treatment plan that works.

Call (402) 933-0800 to schedule your appointment or book an appointment online today.

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