Acne Treatment
Acne is an unsightly and often disfiguring skin disorder that is characterized by an inflammation of the skin glands and hair follicles. It is thought to be highly associated with changes in glandular structure and function during puberty. Acne can appear as a single or cluster of red bumps and it can be accompanied with varying degrees of swelling and pain when there is severe inflammation. Although acne is most prevalent on the face, it can form on all parts of the body including the back, chest, shoulders, neck and buttocks. It often has negative social consequences and physical complications, including scarring and discoloration, that can appear as a result of prolonged, widespread outbreaks or physical attempts to pick at the pimp or mechanically squeezing it in order to “pop” the pimple.
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What does acne look like?
Acne comes in a variety of forms; but the most common are whiteheads or blackheads, also known as comedonal acne. Whiteheads and blackheads are pores that are filled with excessive oil and dead skin cells. As inflammation ensues, larger lesions such as pustules, nodules or cysts develop which can be very painful and disfiguring if left untreated.
What causes acne?
There is still debate among physicians regarding all the factors that contribute. Changes in glandular size and function and an excessive production of the hormone androgen during adolescence, however, are thought to be a prime cause of acne in teens and 20-somethings. With excessive oil production also comes the increased risk of clogged pores, follicles, and oil ducts, all of which can produce acne breakouts. There may also be a genetic factor.
How is acne treated?
There are many effective acne treatments available, but treatments do not work overnight! Despite the claims, it typically takes 6-8 weeks to see improvement. Topical antibiotics, salicylic acid, lactic acid and retinoids are often prescribed. In cases of cystic acne and nodular acne, antibiotics can be given by mouth to decrease inflammation and kill bacteria. Birth control pills can assist in normalizing hormone levels, while Isotretinoin (trade name Accutane) taken by mouth is highly effective in more severe forms of acne but requires frequent blood test to monitor liver enzymes.
Some of the treatments we offer for Acne at Ageless MD include the following:
Skin Care Products: Specifically targeting acne prone skin (simply washing uyour face with Dove Soap is not helping with the acne just like using regular hand soap to clean oily pots and pans) Facials/Extractions.
Chemical Peels: We offer the “Perfect Derma Peel” which is safe for all skin types.
Antibiotic creams or pills given out as a prescription.
Qswitch 1064 Laser to decrease oil gland production.
Radiofrequency Microneedling: temporarily destroys the active acne as well improves acne scarring.
Emergency Acne Cortisone shot which can make any acne lesion(s) literally disappear within 48 hours (for special event, appearance, or wedding).
