Acne affects many adults, starting around puberty. Acne sufferers in the Hudson Valley, especially Poughkeepsie, Kingston and Newburgh area should call Dr. Weinman at Essence MediSpa today. Acne occurs most commonly on the face but also can affect the neck, chest and back. Many of those affected suffer from poor self-esteem related to their appearance. But acne can be treated easily with multiple treatment modalities.
Acne is related to a problem with the hair follicle and oil gland. Excess oil production, inflammation and plugging of the hair follicle, and the bacteria P. acnes all contribute to the formation of acne lesions.
Adult female acne may worsen just prior to or during the start of the menstrual cycle. Hormonal therapy with birth control pills and spironolactone can be used in conjunction with traditional acne treatment. Acne in pregnancy can be safely treated with a combination of topical antibiotic called erythromycin, azelaic acid, and intense pulsed light treatment.
Acne can be divided into several forms. Comedonal acne refers to acne predominated by white heads and blackheads. Inflammatory acne consists of pink bumps (papules), and pustules (pink bumps with white pus). Cystic acne has large, painful, swollen, deep bumps that may heal with scarring.
Early and appropriately aggressive treatment is needed to control acne. Combination treatment is usually necessary. This may consist of topical antibiotics, sulfur, alpha hydroxy acids, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids (vitamin A derivatives). Oral antibiotics may be required for a short period of time to control inflammatory acne. Severe cases may require an oral retinoid called isotretinoin, which requires monthly monitoring and blood tests.
Other alternative treatment options for acne include laser and light therapy and chemical peels.Photodynamic therapy shrinks oil glands, decreases inflammation, kills Proprionibacterium acnes (bacteria contributing to acne), and improves discoloration from old acne lesions. IPL treatment and salicylic acid peels can lessen the appearance of pigmentation following acne.
Acne scarring can be addressed once active acne is under control. Laser resurfacing, subcision therapy,fillers, and liquid injectable silicone can all be used to treat scars related to acne.
