Acne

Question 1

What really causes acne?

Answer

There is a lot of misinformation on this topic. The reality is that you don’t have acne solely because you are dirty or eat too much chocolate or greasy food. Acne occurs when the follicles or sac-like chambers through which hair grows become clogged up with excess oils (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria. The follicles can become infected or inflamed. Acne may be triggered or worsened by hormonal changes brought on by puberty or menopause, poorly managed stress, and the use of corticosteroids and other medications.

Question 2

What are the symptoms of acne?

Answer

Acne takes on many different forms. We need to understand the true nature of your acne and its severity. This knowledge then informs our treatment recommendations. Additionally, it is important for us to determine if the bumps and pimples are acne or another skin condition entirely. There are different treatments for different skin conditions. So, effective treatment depends on our dermatologists, Drs Simone Stalling and Rosannah Velasquez, making an accurate diagnosis about your skin concerns.

Question 3

What conditions can be mistaken for acne?

Answer

With our expertise, we can rule out rosacea, folliculitis, “heat rash,” keratosis pilaris, drug eruption and hidradenitis suppurativa.

Question 4

What are the different types of acne?

Answer

If your spots and inflammation are truly acne, Drs Stalling, MD, PhD, FAAD and Velasquez, MD can “grade” your acne on a scale of “1” to “4,” with “4” being the most severe form. Grade 1 is generally characterized by whiteheads and blackheads and is milder in nature. It is also not inflammatory. Grade 2 is mild, too, but inflammation may be present in the form of firm and rough papules and fluid-filled, blister-like pustules. The latter grades are characterized by moderate acne (including a few nodules and painful pores) and severe acne with numerous nodules and very inflamed papules and pustules, respectively. Severe acne is also associated with scarring. So, it is important to seek out effective treatment for both short-term relief as well as to avoid long-term permanent scarring as a consequence of untreated acne.

Question 5

Do I need to change my eating habits?

Answer

Diet alone is rarely the sole cause of acne, so you do not necessarily need to make major changes to your eating habits. However, some people notice that certain foods seem to trigger breakouts. Having a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains promotes overall skin health. If you suspect specific foods are affecting your skin, Dr. Simone Stalling can help determine whether dietary changes may be beneficial alongside your acne treatment plan.

Question 6

Why am I getting acne as an adult?

Answer

Adult acne is more common than many people realize and can affect both women and men. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, genetics, certain medications, and skincare products can all contribute to breakouts later in life. Unlike teenage acne, adult acne often appears around the jawline and chin. A professional evaluation at AVIVA Dermatology can identify the underlying causes and help develop a personalized treatment strategy to control current breakouts and reduce future flare-ups.

Question 7

What is the earliest I can treat my acne?

Answer

Acne should be treated as soon as it begins to develop rather than waiting for it to become severe. Early treatment may help reduce inflammation, minimize discomfort, and lower the risk of permanent acne scarring. Whether you have occasional pimples or persistent breakouts, seeking treatment early allows Dr. Stalling to recommend therapies that are appropriate for your age, skin type, and the severity of your acne.

Question 8

Am I infected if I have acne?

Answer

No. Acne is not considered an infection, nor is it contagious. Acne develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria that naturally live on the skin. While bacteria contribute to inflammation, you cannot “catch” acne from someone else. Effective acne treatment focuses on reducing clogged pores, controlling inflammation, and managing the factors that contribute to recurring breakouts.

Question 9

Why does tretinoin make me peel?

Answer

Tretinoin increases the rate at which your skin cells turn over, helping unclog pores and improve acne over time. As your skin adjusts, it’s common to experience dryness, peeling, or mild irritation during the first several weeks of treatment. These effects are usually temporary and often improve with continued use. Using a gentle moisturizer and following Dr. Stalling’s instructions can help minimize discomfort while your skin adapts.

Question 10

Do I need to stop eating dairy and sugar?

Answer

While some studies suggest that dairy products or high-glycemic foods may contribute to acne in certain individuals, eliminating these foods completely is not necessary. Each person’s skin responds differently. Rather than making drastic dietary restrictions, it’s often more helpful to identify personal triggers and combine healthy eating habits with a customized acne treatment plan developed by your dermatologist.

Question 11

Can my make-up and hair products cause acne?

Answer

Yes. Some cosmetics, moisturizers, sunscreens, and hair products contain ingredients that can clog pores and contribute to breakouts, especially around the forehead, hairline, or cheeks. Choosing products labeled “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free” may help reduce this risk. If you’re experiencing persistent acne, Dr. Stalling can review your skincare routine and recommend products better suited to acne-prone skin.

Question 12

Does acne get worse with medication before it gets better?

Answer

It can. Certain acne medications, including topical retinoids such as tretinoin, may cause what appears to be a temporary increase in breakouts during the first few weeks of treatment. This process occurs as clogged pores clear more quickly and is often referred to as “purging.” While it can be frustrating, this phase is usually temporary. Continuing treatment as directed often leads to clearer skin over time.

Question 13

What treatments are available at AVIVA Dermatology?

Answer

We consider many factors when developing treatment plans. These include understanding your needs (type, severity) and potential lifestyle factors, products, and behaviors that could aggravate your acne. We also account for other medical conditions and medications you may be taking. For more mild acne, topical medications may be an appropriate option. However, for cases that do not get better through other means or are more severe, we may recommend chemical peels and oral medications. We can also advise on skin care that does not clog your pores and irritate your skin. To start your journey to skin clearance, schedule a consultation at our office in Houston, TX, by calling us at (713) 468-0303 today.