Did you know that acne affects up to 85% of people between the ages of 12 and 24? But it’s not just a teenage problem—many adults struggle with acne well into their 30s, 40s, and beyond. With June being Acne Awareness Month, it’s the perfect time to learn more about this common skin condition. The skin experts at Reno Tahoe Dermatology want to help you understand acne better and share proven advice on treating it safely and effectively.
Understanding The Different Types Of Pimples
Acne comes in various forms, each requiring its own treatment. To make informed decisions about how to treat it, it’s important to understand the different types of acne:
- Whiteheads: Small, round, and often white or flesh-colored, whiteheads form when pores get clogged with oil and dead skin cells. They tend to be less inflamed and are often safe to extract at home, as long as you follow the right technique.
- Blackheads: These small, dark spots occur when hair follicles are clogged with oil, dirt, and dead skin cells. Blackheads, like whiteheads, are generally safe to remove at home with the right tools and proper technique.
- Cystic Acne: These are large, painful pimples that develop deep under the skin’s surface, often causing significant inflammation. They should never be popped at home, as doing so can lead to scarring, increased inflammation, and even infection.
- Inflamed Pimples: Red, swollen, and sometimes filled with pus, inflamed pimples can be painful. Attempting to pop them at home can lead to bacteria spreading, causing more breakouts and permanent scarring.
When Is It Safe To Pop a Pimple At Home?
If you’re dealing with whiteheads or blackheads, here’s when it’s okay to pop:
- Whiteheads and Blackheads: These can be safely extracted at home, but always use clean hands and the right tools. Gently cleanse your face, apply a warm compress to open pores, and use a comedone extractor or your fingers (wrapped in clean tissue) to apply gentle pressure. Never force the pimple out, as this can cause more harm than good.
- Over-the-Counter Treatments: Products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help reduce inflammation and clear up smaller breakouts by reducing bacteria and excess oil that contribute to acne.
When To Leave The Pimple To The Pros
While whiteheads and blackheads may be safe for at-home treatment, cystic acne and inflamed pimples need professional care. Here’s why:
- Cystic Acne: These deep, painful pimples should never be popped at home. Attempting to extract them can cause scarring, inflammation, and worsening of the acne. At Reno Tahoe Dermatology, we offer cortisone injections to reduce swelling and speed up healing without causing further skin damage.
- Inflamed Pimples: These can quickly spread and cause more breakouts if popped at home. Our dermatology team can help with oral medications, topical prescriptions, or professional extractions to treat inflamed pimples safely.
Aviclear: A Revolutionary Acne Treatment At Reno Tahoe Dermatology
For those struggling with persistent acne, Reno Tahoe Dermatology is proud to offer Aviclear, an FDA-approved laser treatment designed to target the root cause of acne: excess oil production.
Unlike traditional treatments, Aviclear works by using a targeted laser to treat sebaceous glands, reducing oil production and helping prevent future breakouts. This non-invasive treatment is safe for all skin types and works for teens and adults alike. Most patients see significant improvement after a few sessions, with minimal discomfort and no downtime. Aviclear can be a game-changer for anyone dealing with persistent or severe acne.
Acne Awareness Month Means Taking Action
Acne is more than just a teenage problem, it affects many adults well into their 30s, 40s, and beyond. As we observe Acne Awareness Month this June, it’s the perfect time to think about how you care for your skin and learn more about the right treatments for your specific needs. Whether you’re dealing with mild breakouts or persistent acne, don’t hesitate to reach out to Reno Tahoe Dermatology for expert care. We can help you create a personalized skincare plan and share the benefits of Aviclear to help clear your skin safely and effectively.
