Acne Specialist

What is acne?

Acne is a common skin condition that most often affects the face but may also appear on the chest, back, or arms.

Acne develops when the pores in your skin become clogged and then inflamed due to factors including skin oil (sebum), bacteria that lives in the pore and hormonal factors. The result is blackheads and whiteheads (non-inflammatory acne), and papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts (inflammatory acne).

Up to 80% of people have some form of acne, whether mild or severe, at some point during their life. It’s most common in teens due to the hormonal changes that trigger an increase in skin oil (sebum) production.

What are the types of acne?

Acne causes a wide range of blemishes. Types of acne include:

Blackheads

Blackheads are open pores that fill with oil and dead skin.

Whiteheads

Whiteheads are white bumps that appear on the surface of your skin that stay closed. 

Papules

Papules, also known as pimples, are red or pink acne bumps.

Pustules

Pustules are pimples filled with pus and surrounded by pink or reddish skin. These types of acne blemishes may lead to acne scars if picked at or scratched.

Nodules

Nodules are solid acne bumps that go deep into your skin. 

Cysts

Cysts are pus-filled pimples that may lead to acne scars.

What can I expect during an acne consultation?

You can expect a patient-centered consultation when you visit Advanced Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology for an acne consultation. Dr. Gettler provides a wide range of skin care services at his practice.  

During your exam, Dr. Gettler talks to you about your skin and symptoms. He also reviews your medical history and examines your skin to determine acne type and severity.

How is acne treated?

Dr. Gettler offers a full spectrum of treatment options for acne. He customizes your plan based on the severity of your skin condition. Treatment may include:

• Topical medication (benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, azelaic acid, retinoids)
• Oral medications (antibiotics, spironolactone)
• Isotretinoin — an oral retinoid for severe or resistant acne

No single treatment works for all types of acne, and it takes time to see results from any acne treatment. Dr. Gettler works closely with you, adjusting your plan as needed until you’re completely satisfied with the look and health of your skin.

He also specializes in cosmetic dermatology and may recommend acid peels to treat your acne or acne scars.

At Advanced Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology, Dr. Gettler provides acne services so he can clear up your skin. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.