This is a sebaceous hyperplasia, or clogged oil duct, which is another skin lesion often mistaken as a pimple or blackhead. They are caused by over-productive oil glands and unlike a pimple or blackhead, are not extractable. Notice the depressed center resembling a doughnut. They are generally found on the upper portion of the face, but can be anywhere on the body. Cumulative sun damage is considered to be a co-factor of this condition because sunlight further damages skin and oil glands—one more reason to make sure youre protecting your skin every day with a quality sunscreen. Treating sebaceous hyperplasia usually requires a visit to the dermatologist or experience clinical aesthetician. Before you consider any of the following treatment options, you need to know that sebaceous hyperplasia cannot be cured, only controlled. The bump can be reduced or eliminated, but the affected oil gland likely will produce a new bump if treatment isnt maintained with proper skin care. Some treatment options are: 1) Facial peels—This involves using salicylic acid or trichloroacetic acid. 2) Electric needle—This causes the bump to break down and ooze, forming a scab that falls off in a week or so. 3) Photodynamic therapy—This is a light-emitting treatment where the skin is pre-treated with a special gel that reacts with the light. This often requires several office visits. 4) Liquid nitrogen—This option is risky because if it penetrates too deeply, you may be left with a scar or loss of skin pigment. 5) Prescription retinoid or azelaic acid—This treatment is intended to reduce the appearance of the lesions, but it wont eliminate the problem. 6) Surgical excision of the bump—This may lead to scarring, but the bump wont recur in the excised area. This is considered a last-resort option 7) Antiandrogen medication—This reduces the hormone testosterone, which may be stimulating enlargement of the oil glands. Examples of these medications are spironolactone or flutamide. This, like surgical excision, is a last resort. We are able to offer options 1, 3, 5, 6 and 7 from the above list.
Posted on: Thu, 20 Mar 2014 18:02:12 +0000
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