Why Does My Acne Hurt? Understanding Painful Acne Symptoms

Dealing with acne is frustrating, and it becomes even more challenging when the blemishes are painful. If you've ever asked yourself, "Why is my acne painful?" You're not alone. It's often caused by inflammation beneath the skin. Understanding the cause of this discomfort is an important step toward finding the right treatment. 

Below, we discuss painful acne, like whiteheads and blackheads, and share practical tips on how to remove these blemishes. We'll also cover professional treatments available in the Greater Houston area. 

Call Clear Lake Dermatology to learn about these options and get started. Our League City and Webster, TX team can help you enjoy a clearer, smoother-looking complexion. 

Why is my acne painful? 

Many people don't understand why their acne is so painful. It's because when clogged pores are blocked with oil, dead cells, and bacteria, the body responds with inflammation. You may experience redness, swelling, and tenderness around the area. 

In some cases, trapped oil and bacteria can continue to build up under the skin, forming deeper, more severe kinds of acne, like cysts or nodules, which are especially painful. Hormonal changes, stress, and certain skincare products can also worsen these kinds of acne, making the affected areas feel even more sensitive. 

How to remove blemishes that cause pain 

There are a number of ways to help alleviate the pain and discomfort caused by acne. These include:  

• Washing your face with a gentle, non-comedogenic (non-clogging) cleanser morning and night 
• Investing in skincare products that fit your skin type (e.g., oily, dry, or combination) 
• Avoiding heavy or oil-based makeup that leads to clogged pores 
• Avoiding picking or popping whiteheads and blackheads, which can worsen inflammation 
• Staying hydrated and maintaining a well-balanced diet, low in sugar and refined carbohydrates 

For persistent or severe acne, we recommend calling our team in League City or Webster, TX for a personalized treatment plan. 

Our acne treatment options 

Looking to clear your skin and reduce painful acne? At Clear Lake Dermatology, we offer various treatments, including:  

• Topical and oral medications: Topical treatments can be effective for mild cases of acne. For more painful breakouts, oral antibiotics can help reduce inflammation. 
• Laser acne treatment: Laser acne treatment targets acne-causing bacteria while stimulating collagen production to promote healthier, clearer skin. 
• Chemical peels: A chemical peel exfoliates the outer layers of the skin, making it an excellent option for clogged pores and improving the appearance of acne scars. 
• Extractions: For stubborn whiteheads and blackheads that don't respond to other treatments, professional extractions can safely address this issue. 

Why work with our skincare professionals? 

If you're ready to take control of your painful acne, Clear Lake Dermatology offers personalized care and cutting-edge treatments. Our trained professionals understand that each case is unique and will work closely with you to develop a customized treatment plan. Whether you're dealing with mild blemishes or severe cystic acne, we're here to help. 

Treat painful acne  

Painful acne does not have to control your life in League City and Webster, TX. With the right treatments, tools, and support, you can achieve a healthier complexion. If you want to know how to remove blemishes or have questions such as, "Why is my acne painful?" Call Clear Lake Dermatology to explore your options. We can discuss laser acne treatment and more.