Three Easy Treatments Clear Up Active Acne

Acne can occur at any age, though it is most common in the teen years. It’s caused by the overproduction of oils within the layers of skin. With whiteheads, bacteria and dead skin cells build up in hair follicles and the infection leads to the pus that pushes against the skin, causing the white appearance.

Blackheads form when the hair follicle is open and able to receive oxygen, but the dead skin cells and oil are still trapped within the hair follicle. With either form, the unsightly appearance on the skin can make you feel self-conscious, lower your self-esteem, and even lead to bullying by your peers.

While there are over-the-counter skin creams and washes to help acne, many teens and adults do not find they work effectively. A trip to a facial plastic surgeon can be the best way to find an active acne treatment that clears up the skin on a long-lasting basis.

Blue Light Acne Therapy

Blue Light treatments are FDA-approved and may even be covered by your health insurance. The treatment involves exposure to a special LED light that kills the bacteria behind acne. Treatments are performed twice a week for a few weeks. Some facial plastic surgeons pair Blue Light with aminolevulunic acid treatments. Following this combination treatment, the skin may appear red or sunburned for a few days, but treatments are given every two or three weeks instead of twice a week, depending on the severity of the acne.

Microdermabrasion

With microdermabrasion, a powerful tool blasts the upper layers of skin with fine crystals that help slough off dead skin cells. The dead skin cells are vacuumed away at the same time, revealing the clearer, more youthful skin below. This treatment is especially helpful in reducing the appearance of acne pitting and uneven skin textures. Expect to need anywhere from two to a dozen treatments, depending on the condition of your skin before microdermabrasion treatments.

PhotoDynamic Therapy

Finally, PhotoDynamic Therapy involves the application of aminolevulunic acid to the skin. LED or intense pulsed lighting is then used to produce an inflammatory reaction that causes the top layers of skin to peel away, similar to what you experience with a sunburn. After up to a week of healing, the fresher lower layers of skin appear.

This helps shrink the size of your pores, evens your skin tone, boosts collagen production, and clears up acne. The number of PhotoDynamic Therapy treatments you need is determined by the overall condition of your skin.

View this Visia skin analysis video that demonstrates how Masri Clinic for Laser and Cosmetic Surgery analyzes your skin and comes up with the best treatment plan. Dr. Masri is a triple board certified cosmetic surgeon specializing in facial plastic surgery. If you want to embrace clear, beautiful skin, there are two Michigan cosmetic surgery offices available. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Masri at the Birmingham or Dearborn office by calling 866-487-3223.