Acne Treatment and Prevention

Acne is a condition that affects nearly everybody in Westminster, Colorado and across the nation at some point in their lives. Many people experience acne in their teen years, but some experience it long after they enter adulthood. Adult acne and acne scars affect a large part of the population and finding treatment or preventing further outbreaks becomes very important. Those interested in learning about possible acne treatment options should speak with a dermatologist regarding their options.

Before recommending any particular treatment, a dermatologist will likely examine the patient to determine if they suffer from mild acne or severe acne. The degree of the condition often affects the type of treatment required, as more severe cases often require a stronger or more thorough treatment.

Acne forms when the sebaceous glands (openings of oil glands) become blocked or clogged. The oil builds up in the glad and becomes inflamed. A bacterium called P acne is often blamed for the condition, although the precise reason for these glands becoming blocked is not fully understood. Hormone levels during puberty are often to blame, while stress and diet may also play a role. With severe acne comes the chance of permanent scarring, so patients with moderate to severe acne are encouraged to speak with a dermatologist or skin care professional regarding treatment options.

The first treatment recommended to patients suffering from acne is often an over-the-counter topical medication such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Prescription options may at first include a topical retinoid treatment and a topical antibiotic. If this does not get rid of acne, systemic treatments may be prescribed. Women may even be encouraged to take oral contraceptives to improve acne. Speaking with a medical professional regarding possible acne treatment is the best source of information.

Other acne treatments include laser and light therapies, as well as photodynamic therapy, chemical peels, radiofrequency therapy and microdermabrasion. These are often offered at cosmetic clinics and have a variety of different uses. Blue light is absorbed by porphyrin in the skin that causes a reaction that destroys acne causing bacteria. Red light therapy works by reducing inflammation in the skin.

Patients interested in laser therapy should speak with a medical professional regarding this possibility. Many lasers exist in the cosmetic field, but only a few have been known to be effective in fighting acne. In photodynamic therapy, a photosensitizer is used that is absorbed by only a certain type of cell. The skin is then exposed to a light source and the targeted cells are destroyed. The hyperactive sebaceous glands are targeted when photodynamic therapy is used to treat acne.

The jury is still out on radiofrequency therapy's effects on acne. Some studies point to success, but patients should speak with a medical professional before pursuing this procedure as an acne treatment. Chemical peels have typically been used for facial rejuvenation treatment, but have also been used to treat acne. Microdermabrasion has also helped patients improve acne lesions and the texture of their skin.

For patients still unsure of their acne treatment options, a medical professional at a reputable clinic offering such service is the best resource for information. Any lingering questions or concerns should be addressed by an experienced skincare professional.

Learn more about acne treatment in Westminster, Colorado.