Acne (Acne vulgaris)

Acne is an inflammatory disease of the skin, caused by changes in the hair follicles and sebaceous glands.

  • The typical acne lesions are comedones, papules, pustules, nodules, and inflammatory cysts.
  • Several factors occur in combination to cause acne, including hormonal changes, a family history of acne, stress and diet.
  • Acne is usually associated with the teenage years, but the incidence of adult acne is on the rise.
  • There is no way to predict how long it will take for acne to disappear entirely.

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Acne diagnosis puget sound dermatology
Acne Diagnosis Puget Sound Dermatology

Treatment For Acne

Current treatments for acne (these are often used in combination for best results):

    • Topical antibacterial or anti-inflammatory medications (clindamycin, benzoyl peroxide, sulfacetamide, dapsone)
    • Topical retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene)
    • Oral antibiotics (minocycline or doxycycline)
    • Hormonal therapies including oral contraceptive pills and spironolactone
    • Isotretinoin (an oral retinoid medication)
    • For hyperpigmentation and scarring:
      • After resolution of acne lesions, prominent hyperpigmentation is common.  This temporary hyperpigmentation will fade with time and gentle skin care. Chemical peels, light and laser therapy can also help.
      • Permanent scarring can be addressed using surgical methods, fillers micro-needling and laser resurfacing.

Meet Our Providers

Our providers continue to maintain the highest levels of accreditation and progressive ongoing education to learn and understand the latest developments in medical dermatology. Each provider's education and bio can be viewed below.

Scott Taylor, PA-C

Scott Taylor has been working in dermatology since 2011 with a special focus on surgical and general dermatology. He is particularly passionate about patient counseling in a wide variety of dermatological conditions from...

Sheena Nguyen, DO

Dr. Nguyen is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and a Board Certified, Fellowship-trained Pediatric Dermatologist. She was born and raised...