What Is Acne?
Acne is a common inflammatory skin condition that develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil (sebum), skin cells, and microorganisms. While acne often begins during adolescence, many individuals experience persistent or adult-onset acne that can continue for years.
Acne is driven by several interacting processes including increased sebum production, abnormal skin cell turnover, microbial imbalance, and inflammation within the hair follicle. When these processes occur together, they can lead to clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads, inflamed papules, and cystic lesions.
Because multiple biological factors contribute to acne development, effective treatment often requires addressing more than the visible skin symptoms alone.
Why Acne Develops
Acne reflects the interaction of several physiologic pathways within the skin.
Increased sebum production
Hormonal signals stimulate sebaceous glands to produce excess oil.
Follicular plugging
Skin cells accumulate within the hair follicle, contributing to clogged pores.
Microbiome imbalance
Bacteria such as Cutibacterium acnes or Malassezia yeast can trigger inflammatory responses.
Inflammatory signaling
Immune pathways within the skin amplify redness, swelling, and acne lesions.
Common Factors That Can Contribute to Acne
Acne severity and persistence are often influenced by both internal and environmental triggers.
Common contributing factors include:
hormonal fluctuations
high glycemic diets
certain medications or supplements
cosmetics or pore-clogging skincare products
insulin resistance and metabolic signaling
dairy and whey protein in some individuals
stress and sleep disruption
gut microbiome imbalance
Identifying and managing personal triggers can be an important part of long-term rosacea management.
Our Approach to Rosacea Treatment
Dr. Larivee provides physician-led care for patients with chronic rosacea. Rather than focusing only on controlling visible symptoms, care focuses on identifying the biological factors contributing to inflammation and vascular reactivity.
Treatment plans are individualized based on the type and severity of rosacea, prior treatment history, and the patient's overall health. Approaches may include:
01
Clinical evaluation
Review of rosacea subtype, symptom patterns, and triggers.
02
Skin barrier support
Strategies that strengthen the skin barrier and reduce irritation.
03
Microbiome considerations
Address microbial factors contributing to inflammation.
04
Targeted therapies
Evidence-informed dermatologic treatments when appropriate.
05
Long-term skin stability
Focus on reducing flare frequency and maintaining skin resilience.
Who This Care Is Designed For
This care model may be appropriate for patients who:
experience persistent facial redness or frequent flushing episodes
have inflammatory rosacea with recurring bumps or pustules
experience frequent flare-ups that affect daily skin stability
have not achieved consistent improvement with conventional episodic care
want a physician-guided and integrative dermatology approach
This practice focuses on chronic inflammatory skin conditions and may not be appropriate for urgent dermatologic care.
