Bad acne, more commonly referred to as severe acne, is a notable skin condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Characterized by more than just the occasional pimple or minor breakout, severe acne often presents as frequent, deep, inflamed acne lesions, leading not only to skin damage but also potentially causing emotional distress.
Having an understanding of why bad acne occurs can help in seeking appropriate treatment. Severe acne is typically the result of excess sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria build-up in the skin’s microscopic hair follicles. It may also be influenced by genetic and hormonal fluctuations. Any interference with your skin’s natural balance can result in an acne flare-up, where pimples form and can potentially leave behind scars or dark spots after they heal.
Identifying Severe Acne
Severe acne differs from its milder counterparts in a few significant ways. Different types of severe acne include nodules, which are large, inflamed lumps that reside deep within the skin; and cysts, painful pus-filled lumps appearing on the skin’s surface. Not only are these types of acne painful, but their healing process can be lengthy and they tend to leave behind lasting marks or scars.
Seeking Professional Help
If keeping the skin clean and using over-the-counter treatments aren’t doing the trick, it may be time to seek medical help. Seeing a dermatologist, a skin specialist, can provide solutions that specifically target severe acne. They may prescribe topical treatments or oral antibiotics, or they may recommend procedures such as chemical peels, corticosteroid injections, or laser therapy.
Treating Severe Acne
Treatment options for severe acne tend to be more intense than for milder forms, often involving prescription medications. Several types of drugs can be used, including oral antibiotics, to kill skin bacteria and reduce inflammation; and isotretinoin, which addresses all acne causes and is typically used for severe nodular or cystic acne.
In addition, advanced treatments such as laser and light therapies, chemical peels, and drainage and extraction methods can be introduced. These treatments, however, should always be done under specialist guidance to prevent further skin damage.
Bad Acne and Hidradenitis Suppurativa
At times, severe acne may be confused with a condition known as Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS). HS is a chronic skin condition that causes small, painful lumps under the skin. These lumps can break open, or can grow deeper into the skin, becoming interconnected under the surface.
Though not a form of acne, HS shares similar characteristics, so it’s critical to seek advice from a medical professional to obtain a correct diagnosis. For HS, you may want to consult with the best doctor for hidradenitis suppurativa. They can diagnose and manage the condition, helping you navigate its unique challenges.
Conclusion
Navigating bad acne isn’t always a straightforward journey, but understanding its causes and treatments can provide a sense of direction. Utilizing a healthcare professional’s advice is critical, whether it’s for severe acne or a condition like HS. Remember, everyone’s skin behaves differently, and finding a treatment regimen that is effective takes time, patience, guided exploration, and professional oversight.