Posts for tag: Acne
When you’re dealing with skin problems such as eczema or psoriasis, using the same skincare products that others do may end up being a major no-no. In fact, you need to pay close attention to the products you are currently using. Whether you’re noticing more flare-ups, or you are just concerned about how to care for your delicate skin, a dermatologist can be a helpful doctor to turn to. Here are some other tips that can help.You Have Dry Skin
If you are dealing with very dry, itchy, and flaky skin then baths can actually make dry skin worse. This means that you’ll want to find products that prevent the body’s natural oils from being stripped away. Of course, while you may want to watch the temperature on that bathwater, this doesn’t mean that you can’t still enjoy a relaxing soak in the tub. Just look for soaps and bath products that contain coconut milk, which is incredibly hydrating. Not to mention, it will make your skin smell pretty great, too!
You Have Eczema
If you have eczema then bath time might be a real challenge; however, if you haven’t tried it yet you need to look for bath products that contain colloidal oatmeal. Instead of using a bubble bath or other products that could exacerbate eczema, use a colloidal oatmeal bath soak instead. This product is great for itchy, dry, and red skin caused by eczema. It can also be ideal for those with sunburns and poison ivy rashes.
You Have Acne-Prone Skin
Acne doesn’t just appear on the face, you may also notice embarrassing breakouts on your shoulders, back, legs, or other parts of the body, too. If you are prone to breakouts, it’s important to find a product that won’t make acne worse while also removing excess oil from the skin. One option is Epsom salts.
Not only are they great for reducing inflammation but they also help to exfoliate the skin to remove the buildup of dead skin cells, which in turn prevents clogged pores. Soaps with tea tree oil, sulfur, or charcoal may also be great for keeping pores clean and removing impurities in the skin.
You Have Psoriasis
When it comes to psoriasis, gentle bath products are key! Look for body wash rather than soap, which can actually alter the pH of the skin and lead to further dryness. Instead, look for a gentle, fragrance-free body wash. You’ll also want to ease off the hot water and instead opt for lukewarm water when bathing or showering. Just like with eczema, colloidal oatmeal can also be soothing for psoriasis plaques.
If in doubt, your dermatologist is a wellspring of information to help you find the ideal products for your skin. A dermatologist will also know what ingredients and products to avoid based on the skin problems you’re facing. Ask your dermatologist today!
Don’t let acne problems cause you distress. It might be easier to treat than you realized.
There are many ways that our Honolulu, HI, dermatologists - Dr. Kevin Dawson, Dr. Douglas Chun, Dr. Sarah Grekin and Dr. Erin Fuller - can help you conquer your acne outbreaks if you aren’t able to get the results you want through over-the-counter remedies. Some of the options we offer for treating your acne include:
- Prescription medications (oral or topical)
- Laser therapy
- Extractions
- Chemical peels
During your consultation, our Honolulu, HI, skin doctors will be able to examine your skin, determine the cause or causes of your outbreaks and then determine the best course of action. We may just recommend taking medication or we may recommend multiple treatment options depending on the type and severity of your acne.
Of course, did you know that there are ways for you to keep skin free from acne? People have a lot of bad habits that they may not even be aware of that could be making them more susceptible to breakouts:
Touching Your Face
How often do you find yourself rubbing your face? Perhaps you like to rest your face in your hands. Now think about where your hands have been and the last time you washed them. You could easily be rubbing bacteria and germs all over your skin, which could be leading to those annoying little pimples along the jawline or hairline.
Using Your Cell Phone
We are about to ask you a potentially gross question. How often do you disinfect your cell phone? We will let your answer sink in for a moment. We know that most people don’t clean their phones at all, let alone every day. Of course, people are often glued to their phones, which harbor tons of bacteria. Make sure to pack those disinfecting wipes and use them on your phone at least once a week.
You Use Too Many Products
That’s right; you can overdo it on acne products. Some people think that if one acne product will work then two or three may be even more effective. Don’t buy into this misconception. You have to use a product for several weeks before deciding that it isn’t working and switching to something new. Using too many harsh products, particularly together, could end up making acne worse. If you aren’t sure which products are good to use we would be happy to provide recommendations.
Acne can be a difficult skin problem to handle on your own. If you feel like you are losing the battle then turn to the medical professionals at Dawson Dermatology in Honolulu, HI, to get one step closer to acne-free skin.
Drs. Kevin Dawson, Douglas Chun, and Sarah Grekin of Dawson Dermatology, in Honolulu, HI, understands the difficulties of acne. About 5% of adults and 80% of adolescents suffer from acne, a confidence-crippling condition.
More About Acne
Sebaceous glands secrete sebum, an oil, that moisturizes the skin. Sebum travels from the root of the hair follicle to the surface of the skin. People suffering from acne have a problem with this process. The sebum doesn't reach the surface of the skin but, instead, creates a blockage of sebum and dead cells.
Whiteheads vs. Blackheads
- Whiteheads are formed when the opening of the hair follicle is completely blocked.
- Blackheads are formed when the hair follicle's pore is still open.
The inflammation of whiteheads and blackheads can produce red pustules that lead to skin scarring when inflamed.
How can you treat acne?
Treating acne isn't easy but your Honolulu dermatologist knows just how to help. Here are a few treatment options your dermatologist provides:
- Benzoyl Peroxide can reduce blocked skin pores for mild acne
- Antibiotics, oral and topical, can help you deal with acne infections
- Vitamin A, like tretinoin, helps exfoliate blocked pores
- Metal instruments extract whiteheads and blackheads manually
What are the acne scars?
Here are some procedures your dermatologist provides:
- Microneedling: This is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that treats skin using collagen induction therapy.
- Chemical peels: This treatment targets different pathophysiological factors to help you deal with photoaging, deep scars, wrinkles, and precancerous skin lesions.
- Laser Skin Treatment: Your dermatologist treats acne scars using laser skin treatment to minimize the appearance of scars by removing people's residual scarring.
Contact Dawson Dermatology
Acne isn't fun for anyone and can deteriorate confidence. Drs. Kevin Dawson, Douglas Chun, and Sarah Grekin of Dawson Dermatology can help you treat acne. For more information on acne, acne scars, and the various acne treatments, call your Honolulu, HI, dermatologists at 808-599-3780.
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions that dermatologists treat. Recommended treatments range from over-the-counter skin products, spot treatment, and light treatment. In reality, the best remedy is prevention. Stopping breakouts before they happen keeps your skin clear and happy. Here are some guidelines to follow for perfect skin.The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says that 80 percent of young people between 11 and 30 years of age suffer from acne. In addition, so do many older adults and menopausal women. Are you struggling with this unsightly skin condition? Here at Dawson Dermatology in Honolulu, HI, Dr. Dawson, Dr. Chun, and Dr. Grekin can help you achieve clearer skin and higher self-confidence.
What causes acne?
Theories vary as to the causes of the whiteheads, blackheads, and red pustules we know as acne. Some researchers blame hormonal variations characteristic of puberty and menopause. Others say diet, poor skin hygiene, and fatty diets are to blame.
Whatever the underlying reason, acne happens as the skin's hair follicles and sebaceous (oil) glands become blocked, reports the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Blemishes appear on the back, shoulders, neck, and face, and they become sore and inflamed.
Unfortunately, some acne is so severe that it scars the skin. Almost all acne causes embarrassment, sometimes to the point of depression and social withdrawal.
Treating acne
At Dawson Dermatology in Honolulu, HI, our board-certified dermatologists provide compassionate, state-of-the-art skincare for the entire family, with acne being one of our most frequently seen conditions. Depending on the kind and severity of your acne, we may recommend medications, washes, and other interventions to clear your skin.
Acne treatment takes time, patience, and work. Your treatment plan will be different from anyone else's. In fact, it will be specifically tailored to your skin, age, activity level, and more.
Interventions may include:
- Tretinoin, or Accutane
- Acne washes with benzoyl peroxide
- Birth control pills
- In-office excision of cystic acne
Additionally, there are many simple ways to control acne breakouts:
- Wash your face gently with your fingertips and a mild acne wash.
- Never squeeze or pop your blemishes.
- Do not touch your face with your hands.
- Clean up after sweating.
- Avoid wearing tight headbands and caps for prolonged periods of time.
- Do not tan outdoors or in an artificial tanning bed.
- See your dermatologist routinely for updates on your condition and treatment plan.
Get ahead of your acne
The American Academy of Dermatology states that early and consistent management of your acne will help you have fewer outbreaks, scars, and dark spots. So, if you're ready to manage this skin condition, call Dawson Dermatology in Honolulu for a consultation with Dr. Kevin Dawson, Dr. Douglas Chun, or Dr. Sarah Grekin: (808) 599-3780.