June 2019 - Page 4 of 4 - Zel Skin & Laser Specialists
acne cyst

Acne Cyst Pop-Up: The Undergrounders

Have you ever had a sore, slightly red bump on your skin and you know something “is in there” but it never quite comes to a head? You may be experiencing an acne cyst or nodule. Acne usually occurs as a response to a pore becoming clogged with sebum (oil), debris, dead skin and/or bacteria. As this gunk accumulates in the pore, it enlarges and sometimes can cause these painful cysts or nodules.

Cysts and nodules can occur anywhere on the body but often times we see them on the face, back, chest and even the buttocks.

So, what can you do if you are suffering from this type of acne? First stop is a visit to one of the medical providers at our clinics. We are currently accepting new patients and can accommodate office visits within one week. After a careful assessment of your skin, you may be prescribed a few different medications. Often times, for this deeper type of acne, oral medication like antibiotics or isotretinoin may be used. Frequently a combination of skin washes and creams will be prescribed.

When can you expect to see results? While acne sometimes may seem like it pops up overnight, it takes a bit longer to see results from your treatment. We always aim to offer treatment options to get rid of your acne in the fastest and safest way possible. When using a new treatment regimen we like to allow 4-6 weeks to start seeing significant results.

Are you dealing with painful, ugly acne cysts or nodules? Call our offices to get scheduled with one of our providers today. Beautiful, clear skin is just a phone call away!

Types of Acne

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions and complaints discussed in our office, occurring most commonly in teenagers and young adults but affecting patients of all ages. There are several different types of acne and during June, Acne Awareness Month, we will be offering blog and social media posts to take the guesswork out of your skin!

When it comes to pimples and acne spots here are some common types:

Cysts and Nodules

These are usually deep, “underground” and may be painful or sensitive. Often times they may never come to a head, and they tend to stick around for a long time.

Pustule

This type of acne is characterized by a red bump with a white top. The white top is a collection of bacteria, dead skin and oil trapped beneath the top surface of the skin.

Open comedones

Often times called blackheads – open comedones form when debris like oil clogs a pore and then becomes exposed to the air. Just like leaving an apple on the counter and it turns brown, sebum exposed to air turns dark — hence the term “blackhead”!

Papules

These red, mounded bumps typically do not have a white or black top to them and they may also be tender to the touch

There are multiple causes for all types of acne including hormonal changes, medications, diet, product use, and genetic tendencies. The common thread amongst all types of acne is that in order for acne to form a clog occurs in the pore. This can occur because of bacteria, oil, dead skin, etc.

Of course, since there are so many types of acne there are many different treatment options! Oral medications, topical creams, washes, chemical peels, and light therapies are all tools that can be used to treat acne.

Stay tuned this month as we discuss all of these types of acne in our “Acne Pop-Up” series. We’ll also be looking at some information on how to treat and prevent pesky breakouts. If you, or someone you know, is suffering from acne our medical providers are here to help! Our PA’s and MD’s are now accepting new patients in all locations. Wait times are usually less than one week.

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2 Carlson Parkway N., Suite 100
Plymouth, MN 55447

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