Acne is an inflammatory skin condition of the oil producing
sebaceous glands that results in bumps, including pimples,
blackheads and whiteheads. When the pores of the skin
become clogged with too much oil and bacteria, the result is
acne. There are several types of acne lesions. The basic
lesion is a comedone , which is a sebaceous gland blocked
by oil, dead skin and bacteria. A closed comedone is a small
skin-colored bump under the skin. An open comedone has a
surface opening filled with black debris. When inflammation
is deeper in the pore, a nodule (a firm red painful bump) is
produced. This may grow and become a cyst filled with pus.
If left untreated, acne can be painful, damaging to the skin and
result in scarring.
Acne commonly appears on the face and shoulders but may
also manifest itself on the chest, neck and back. Acne is most
common in teenagers, but it can happen at any age, to both
males and females. The majority of teenagers have acne to
some degree, probably caused by hormonal chances that
stimulate oil production in the sebaceous glands. Acne many
persist into a person’s 30s and 40s.
Acne tends be hereditary but can also be triggered by:
- Hormonal changes related to menstrual periods, pregnancy, birth control pills, or
- Medications.
- Oily cosmetics and hair products.
- High levels of humidity and heat.
- Sweating, friction from head bands, back packs, or tight collars.
Acne can be treated and controlled by:
- Chemical Peels
- Laser Treatments
- Medical grade facial products
- Chemical Peels
A chemical peel is a controlled exfoliation of the skin caused by the application of a chemical
solution that sloughs off the dead cells from the skin’s surface. For acne, clogged pores are
opened up killing the bacteria that causes acne breakouts. A series of treatments are often
necessary. Acne peels are performed by an esthetician and may take up to 45 minutes.
Although some client's faces may seem a bit pink afterwards, there is no "downtime" and
makeup can be applied immediately after the treatment. A regular home care regimen is
necessary to maintain the affects of the treatment and reduce acne breakouts.
Laser /IPLTreatments
Laser treatments work by delivering a laser light energy that can kill the bacteria responsible
for the acne. Laser therapy can effectively clear 70%-90% of moderate, inflammatory acne in
four to six weeks. Laser treatments usually help control acne breakouts for four to eight
months; after that, occasional touch ups may be necessary.
Prior to treatments:
- Do not use Retin-A for 72 hours
- Accutane should not be taken for 6 months to one year prior to treatment
- Avoid tanning, self tanning and tanning booths 1 month prior to treatment
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us.
