For many adults, acne doesn't disappear once the teenage years have passed. These unwanted bumps on your skin aren't always easy to treat at home, which is why the team of dermatologists at Atlas Dermatology in Prairieville and Baton Rouge, LA - Dr. W. Trent Massengale, Dr. Jessica LeBlanc and Dr. Ashley Record - are here to help you manage your acne. Below, they explain the treatments that go along with the varying degrees of acne.

Mild acne

For acne that totals 30 or fewer lesions, your dermatologist will often recommend topical treatments, which may be prescribed or purchased over-the-counter. This can include medicated face wash that you use once or twice daily or cream that you apply directly to the acne lesions to treat them at the source; these creams often contain retinoids, which help to unclog pores and enhance the effects of the face wash.

Moderate acne

Your Prairieville and Baton Rouge dermatologist diagnoses moderate acne when you have between 30 and 125 "spots." In addition to the treatments listed above, a prescription medication that you take by mouth may be necessary to clear up this type of acne. For many people, part of treating acne this way means that it initially gets worse during the time where the body is purging itself of the infection that caused it. It can take several weeks or months before improvement is seen.

Severe acne

Severe acne is easy to recognize; it is red, painful and can leave deep scars. There may be multiple lumps under the skin or the lesions may develop yellow or white bumps in large clusters. Corticosteroids can treat this chronic inflammation, and isotretinoin, which is prescription-strength vitamin A, helps to reduce the oil output from the glands under the skin. Regular appointments with your dermatologist are essential to monitor your progress and address any side effects from these powerful medications.

To schedule an evaluation with one of our dermatologists, contact Atlas Dermatology. We have convenient locations in both Prairieville and Baton Rouge, LA, making it easier for you to have healthier and more beautiful skin!