Acne
What is Acne?
The most common form of acne is known as “acne vulgaris.” Teenagers and adults, especially women, can develop acne. Acne develops as a result of blockages in follicles and also from inflammation. Adult women also suffer frequently from hormonal acne.
What Causes Acne?
Blackheads occur when the hair follicle enlarges and forms an opening at the tip. Whiteheads are the direct result of skin pores becoming clogged with sebum (a naturally occurring oil) and dead skin cells. As a result, inflammation can occur, leading to inflammatory lesions such as pimples, nodules, cysts with redness and scarring. Treating acne early is key to avoid acne scarring. Some factors that are known to be linked to acne are:
- Family
- Hormonal activity, such as menstrual cycle and puberty
- Stress
- Diet
- Smoking
At Shideler Dermatology there are many safe, quick and painless treatments available to people with acne problems and scars. Most people who undergo acne treatment report satisfaction, minimal discomfort and overall better self-esteem after receiving treatment. Dermatologists specialize in the treatment of all skin problems including acne.
Acne Prevention
Although some acne is not preventable, Dr Shideler and his staff recommend daily treatments that can help prevent acne. In addition to prescription and laser treatments, we offer products including medical grade cleansers to avoid bacteria build up on your skin. Daily cleansing will help reduce the number of acne outbreaks or reduce infection that may lead to scarring. Recent evidence suggests that diet may play a role in acne and we are happy to discuss all aspects of diagnosis and treatment at the time of your appointment.
Prescription Treatments For Acne
Prescription acne treatments work by reducing oil production, speeding up skin cell turnover, fighting bacterial infection, reducing inflammation or a combination of all four. Prescription creams include topical antibiotics and benzoyl peroxide which can reduce bacterial build-up, Retin-A, tretinoin, Differin and Tazorac which can fight inflammation and clogging of the pores, and Aczone which can reduce inflammation. Oral medications can include short courses of antibiotics, hormonal treatments, and Aldactone (spironoactone) which blocks some of the hormones that lead to acne. Aldactone is often the best treatment for adult women. We do offer Accutane (isotretinoin) to patients who qualify. In addition, we offer lasers and light treatments including blue light, red light, infra-red lasers, and photodynamic therapy to treat acne. If you are pregnant, do not use oral prescription medications for acne, especially during the first trimester. Let your dermatologist know of any other medications or supplements you are taking.
Therapy Treatments for Acne
Many people benefit from other options for acne treatment such as laser and light therapy procedures, including red light and blue light treatments which are quick, effective, and painless. Laser and light therapy are able to reach deep layers of skin without damaging the skin’s surface. Laser therapy works by targeting the bacteria that causes inflammation. In addition, certain lasers can shrink the oil glands. Laser therapy can improves the skin’s texture and can reduce the appearance of acne scars. Recent studies that a combination of ALA (amino-levulinic or as Levulan) or Metvixia combined with high doses of red light can lead to acne cures in some people.
Cosmetic Procedures
Chemical peels and microdermabrasion can be useful in controlling acne. Although traditionally used to reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles, sun damage and minor facial scars, it is very effective when used in combination with other acne treatments. Salicylic medical grade peels can help to open the pores. Along with extractions done during acne surgery this can lead to rapid improvement.
Acne Scar Treatments
Other cosmetic procedures can greatly improve the appearance of acne scarring. Fillers including Juvederm, Restylane, Perlane or Radiesse are especially helpful for depressed scarring of the face. Chemical peels can help to correct color changes in the skin as can intense pulsed light and the KTP laser. Thickened scars can benefit from the injection of small, safe amounts of cortisone. Surgery can correct small discreet scars. We offer a full range of resurfacing lasers which can smooth out scars, including the Fraxel restore laser, the DOT laser (fractionated CO2) and Portrait plasma resurfacing. Call Shideler Dermatology at 317-846-2396 today to schedule an appointment to discuss what acne treatment will work best for you.