May 3, 2017 3 min read

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Dr. Megan Joint, D.O., practices at the Canonsburg office of Mountain State Medical Specialties. She is originally from Erie and went to Gannon University. She attended medical school at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, and did her residency at LewisGale Hospital Montgomery in Blacksburg, Va. We spoke to her about the causes and treatment of acne.

What are the differences between the causes and symptoms of adult and teenage acne?

Acne is a very common problem for both teens and adults. I’m often asked if acne is caused by lack of washing, and the answer is no. Acne is caused by multiple factors unrelated to age, personal hygiene, or diet. Rosacea can be referred to as “adult acne” and this is a different entity altogether – rosacea is an inflammatory condition that can cause redness and/or acne-like bumps on the face. It can be triggered by sun exposure, stress, spicy foods and alcohol. There are topical and oral treatment options available depending on disease severity.

Does treatment differ as well?

Acne skin cells are “stickier” than usual – which can block pores, there’s increased bacteria and oil production, as well as increased inflammation. There are different treatment options targeting these various factors, so treatment is individualized for each patient.

Should there be a different approach for acne on other parts of the body (chest, back, etc)?

The chest and back can be tough areas to treat, but there are body washes as well as oral treatment options available for more widespread or severe acne.

If one already has clear skin, what is the best way to maintain it?

Everyone can benefit from gentle cleaning of the skin daily with water and a non-soap cleanser. Beaded scrubs, wash cloths and loofahs are usually unnecessary and may cause irritation.

What might people be surprised to learn about acne?

Unfortunately, acne can start in adulthood, even if that person never had it when they were a teen. The good news is that there are safe and effective treatment options available.

Anything else that you would like to mention?

It is easier to treat acne than the scars it can leave behind. So if you’re experiencing scarring, it’s best to start treatment as soon as possible.

Dr. Joint can be reached at 724.485.7100. For more information, visit www.msmswv.com.