Acne
Driven by genetics and hormones, acne is a chronic inflammatory condition often exacerbated by Denver’s dry, high-altitude climate. Successful management requires addressing these root biological causes to restore the skin barrier and prevent long-term scarring.
What Is Acne?
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. It causes whiteheads, blackheads, or pimples and is most common among teenagers, though it affects people of all ages.
While often dismissed as a cosmetic annoyance, acne is a complex medical condition that requires professional management to prevent scarring and emotional distress.
Professional Management
Identifying your specific acne type is the first step in our personalized treatment plans at Core Dermatology, where we specialize in treating complex cases, including deep cystic acne often seen in adults.
Common Symptoms and Types of Acne
There are several varieties of acne, ranging from mild comedones to severe nodules.
- Whiteheads: Closed plugged pores that appear as small, flesh-colored bumps.
- Blackheads: Open plugged pores where the oil has oxidized, turning dark brown or black.
- Papules: Small red, tender bumps that indicate inflammation in the pore.
- Pustules: Similar to papules but filled with white or yellow pus at the tip.
- Nodules: Large, solid, painful lumps situated deep beneath the surface of the skin.
- Cystic Acne: Painful, pus-filled lumps beneath the skin that carry the highest risk of scarring
What Causes Acne?
(Triggers & Risk Factors)
Acne is primarily caused by four main factors: excess oil (sebum) production, hair follicles clogged by oil and dead skin cells, bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes), and inflammation.
While the root cause is biological, several triggers can worsen the condition:
- Hormonal Changes: Androgens increase during puberty and pregnancy, enlarging sebaceous glands and producing more sebum.
- Stress: Stress triggers the release of cortisol, which can increase oil production.
- Diet: While there is not a clear, well-established link between diet and acne, some research suggests that high Glycemic Index foods and dairy may worsen acne in some individuals.
Does Denver’s Climate Affect Acne?
Yes, the environment plays a significant role in skin health. Denver’s high altitude and arid climate can affect acne for many residents. The dry air strips moisture from the skin’s barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, and inflammation. Since acne is an inflammatory condition this can often induce or worsen existing acne.
Core Dermatology focuses heavily on “High Altitude Skincare” routines that balance hydration without clogging pores.
Medical Treatment Options for Acne
Different treatment options are reccommended based on specific skin type and severity of the condition.
Topical Medications
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Retinoids
Drugs derived from Vitamin A that prevent hair follicles from becoming plugged.
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Antibiotics
These kill excess skin bacteria and reduce redness and inflammation.
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Salicylic Acid & Azelaic Acid
Acids that help break down dead skin cells and contain antibacterial properties.
Oral Medications
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Antibiotics
Usually prescribed for moderate to severe acne to reduce bacteria and fight inflammation.
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Combined Oral Contraceptives
FDA-approved options for women that regulate hormones associated with acne.
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Anti-androgen Agents
Drugs like spironolactone block the effect of androgen hormones on sebaceous glands.
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Isotretinoin
A powerful and effective drug for severe cystic acne that hasn’t responded to other treatments.
Advanced Acne Solutions at Core Dermatology
Beyond standard prescriptions, Core Dermatology offers advanced in-office procedures designed to accelerate healing and improve skin texture.
Chemical Peels
We use medical-grade peels to exfoliate the skin surface and unclog pores exacerbated by environmental factors.
Laser & Light Therapies
Technologies like BroadBand Light (BBL) target the bacteria that cause acne and reduce inflammation deep within the skin. VBeam PDL can also treat active lesions and red marks.
Medical Extractions
The safe, sterile removal of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) by a professional to prevent infection.
Acne Scarring Treatment
For patients with post-acne texture issues, we offer microneedling and laser resurfacing to smooth the skin.
Acne Prevention and Skincare Tips for Denver Residents
Follow this list to help avoid or reduce acne breakouts.
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Wash your face twice daily
Use a gentle cleanser to remove excess oil and dirt, but avoid scrubbing, which can irritate the skin.
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Use non-comedogenic products
Ensure all makeup, moisturizers, and sunscreens are labeled “non-comedogenic,” meaning they won’t clog pores.
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Wear sunscreen daily
Living a mile high means increased UV exposure, which can inflame acne and darken acne scars. We recommend specific non-clogging sunscreens available at Core Dermatology.
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Avoid picking or popping
This pushes infected material deeper into the skin, leading to more swelling, redness, and potential scarring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Acne
When should I see a dermatologist for acne?
You should see a dermatologist if over the counter products haven’t worked after three months, if you have painful cystic acne, or if you are developing scars. Early treatment prevents long term damage.
Does the dry air in Denver cause acne?
Yes, Denver’s dry climate can impact acne. The dry air strips moisture from your skin, which can compromise the skin barrier and lead to irritation. Maintaining proper hydration is key to managing breakouts in this climate.
How long does it take to see results from acne treatment?
Most medical acne treatments take 4 to 8 weeks to show visible improvement. Consistency is key, and the team at Core Dermatology monitors your progress to adjust treatments as needed.
Is my diet causing my acne?
Multiple studies have looked into this question, and most have found that diet rarely influences acne. The two diets that may affect acne are diets high in dairy intake and diets with a high glycemic index (white bread, potatoes, white rice).
What makeup do you recommend for someone with frequent breakouts?
You do not have to stop wearing makeup if you suffer from acne. However, it is important to wear makeup that is “non comedogenic”, meaning it does not clog pores. This should be written clearly on the label.
What are the best over the counter products for acne?
The best over the counter acne treatments are washes that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, and a nightly retinol cream such as Differin®. It can take up to 3 months to see improvement with these medications. If you’re still experiencing breakouts after three months of using over the counter products, it may be time to see a dermatologist. If you are getting scarring from your pimples, it is important to see a dermatologist as soon as possible.
Will I outgrow my acne?
Most people experience an improvement of their acne after puberty. However, acne can continue into adulthood in many cases. Adult acne is influenced by hormonal changes, much like teenage acne. Another type of acne is associated with rosacea and is more common in later years.