Determining The Severity Of Your Acne

Acne is a four-letter word that many of us know all too well – it is a common skin condition that happens when hair follicles under the skin become clogged. Oil and dead skin cells clog the pores, and outbreaks of lesions (often called pimples or zits) can happen. Most often, the outbreaks occur on the face but can also appear on the back, chest, and shoulders. No matter your age, you have most likely experienced some form of acne throughout your life. Whether it was caused by stress, the weather, or simply genetics, acne comes in many types and stages and can appear totally different at different periods in your life. The Delaware dermatologists at Premier Dermatology And Cosmetic Surgery are trained to treat patients of all ages, so knowing about your acne severity will help to determine the best, most customized treatment for your skin. 

Determining The Severity Of Your Acne

Even though there is no real test to determine the severity of acne, the Delaware dermatologists at Premier Dermatology And Cosmetic Surgery classify acne as mild, moderate, or severe.  

• Mild Acne – Breakouts are few and fairly minor. Symptoms include blackheads and bumpiness with an inflamed pimple here and there, but in general, the blemishes are not widespread. Mild acne can often be treated with over-the-counter acne products but can progress to more severe forms if not treated immediately.
• Moderate Acne – Breakouts will be more noticeable. Symptoms include blackheads and bumpiness, along with regularly getting inflamed papules (red bumps on the skin) and pustules (an inflamed skin pore clogged with pus, oil, and cell debris). Typically over-the-counter products aren’t strong enough for moderate acne, so a prescription will most likely be needed to clear up moderate breakouts.
• Severe Acne – The biggest difference between moderate and severe acne is inflammation, meaning your blemishes are large, red, and swollen. Since it is more difficult to get severe acne under control, and you will need a prescription to do so.

Premier Dermatology And Cosmetic Surgery

For most people, acne tends to go away by the time they reach their thirties, but some people in their forties and fifties continue to have this skin problem. Regardless of the severity, if you are concerned about your acne contact the Delaware dermatologists at Premier Dermatology And Cosmetic Surgery today to set up a consultation. Our dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and aestheticians work collaboratively to integrate treatment plans that help you look and feel your best. We look forward to working with you!