Acne November 23, 2023

How to Prevent Acne Breakouts

An overview of how acne forms, the different types of acne, and the common triggers behind breakouts, along with dietary and treatment options ranging from topical medications to prescribed antibiotics.

How to Prevent Pimple Breakouts

Our faces are the first thing people notice about us. Preventing unsightly outbreaks can be stressful, but professional dermatologists are ready to answer questions about acne and provide personalized skin care plans.

What is Acne?

This condition represents the most common skin problem encountered. Sebum forms in hair follicles or ducts. When a follicle becomes blocked, oil accumulates in the duct, causing blemishes. A whitehead is a blocked pore closed to air. Blackheads are clogged pores open to air. Cysts, nodules, and pimples are pus-filled blemishes on or beneath the skin surface, causing pain, redness, and swelling.

Types of Acne

Multiple acne types affect the face, shoulders, forehead, chest, and upper back:

Cystic: Deep skin pimples or nodules that can scar.

Fungal: Yeast buildup in follicles causing itchy, inflamed skin.

Hormonal: Excess oil production from hormones, blocking pores.

Nodular: Severe form with painful deep nodules and surface pimples.

Triggers and Treatment

Common triggers include tight clothing, stress, greasy products, extreme weather, pollution, certain medications, and skin picking. Working in greasy environments can also cause breakouts. Some people react to specific foods; avoiding high-sugar diets, whey protein, and skim milk helps. Balanced diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and vitamin C reduce skin inflammation. Professional examination determines treatment options including topical medications, prescribed pills, or antibiotics for significant inflammation.

Ready when you are

Ready to care for your skin?

Reading is a great start, but nothing replaces a professional evaluation. Request an appointment online or call either office to see one of our board-certified dermatologists.