Acne (also called Pimples, Zits)is the term for the common skin condition caused by plugged pores that can occur on the face, neck, chest, shoulders and back. Acne affects most teenagers to some extent. By their mid-teens, more than 40% of adolescents have acne severe enough to require treatment by physician. However, the disease is not restricted to any age group. Acne can be both physically and emotionally scarring!

Acne is caused by physical changes in the sebaceous follicles (oil glands) and develops through several stages. Initially a sebaceous follicle gets plugged with sebum (skin oil) and dead cells from the inside the follicle forming a comedo (or a plug). When comedo is open and visible it is often called a blackhead because of its blackish appearance. A closed comedo is often called a whitehead (a small skin colored bump). Neither blackheads nor whiteheads should be squeezed or picked open to avoid infection and scarring. Blackheads and whiteheads can turn into nodules – solid, dome-shaped or irregular shaped lesions, characterized by inflammation and pain. If the nodule gets infected it turns into a cyst-a sac-like lesion containing liquid or semi-liquid pus. Both Nodular and Cystic forms of acne can be very painful, resistant to treatment and result in extensive deep tissue scarring. There is no universal solution for acne treatment, what works for one person may not work for another. Patients often end up using a skincare program that is not properly matched with their underlying condition and sometimes even harmful. Acne can be very resistant and requires time to resolve. Even after acne resolves or improves, continued treatment is recommended to prevent further re-appearance. Early treatment initiation helps to prevent scarring.

Some of the current treatment options include: benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, retinoid agents (vitamin A products), oral contraceptives, accutane. More advanced treatments or laser/light procedures include: medical facials, Microdermabrasion, IPL/Photofacial, Photodynamic therapy (PDT) with levulan, Pixel laser resurfacing for acne scarring treatment.

It is always advisable to get the opinion of a physician. He will consider several factors, including the severity of acne, types of the lesions, skin type and your age to decide what treatment is best for you. Call today to schedule your free consultation!