Acne is the term for blocked pores (blackheads and whiteheads), pimples and deeper lumps (cysts or nodules) that can appear on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and upper arms. Acne is a chronic, frustrating condition, but very treatable. Seventeen million Americans currently have acne, making it the most common skin disease in the country. Each acne patient is unique, and we will work closely with you to develop a successful, tailored treatment plan. The type of skin lesions one sees include blackheads, whiteheads, pustules, cysts, and inflamed bumps. We can use a combination of different treatment modalities, the most important being prescription medications plus a good home skin care regimen. Acne surgery (extractions), chemical peels, acne treatments and laser treatments are other options that may complement your regimen.
Acne Treatments at Sand Lake Dermatology:
Prescription Medications
Prescription medications are essential to your acne regimen, but knowing how to use them and in what combination is critical.
Treatment of acne includes topical retinoic acid (Retin-A), together with topical or systemic antibiotics as well as anti-inflammatory agents such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. For persistent or more severe acne, oral isotretinoin is the best treatment available. Isotretinoin requires at least a 5-month course; however, approximately 30% of patients may achieve permanent cure after one treatment with isotretinoin.
Let us develop a customized plan for you. Most medications are covered by prescription health plans.
Acne Surgery (Extractions)
Extractions allow us to extract your pimples in a safe, clean environment. Your acne lesions will resolve faster and your chance for scarring will be reduced.
Salicylic Acid Peels
Salicylic acid peels are a great way to exfoliate, deep clean and unclog pores. Salicylic acid is a peeling agent that can be very effective for acne, improving redness and inflammation and, at the same time, restoring your glow.
Photodynamic Laser Therapy (PDT)
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is gaining popularity as a treatment for acne. Used alone and in combination with other traditional medications, PDT can be very effective. It is an alternative to those resistant to traditional medications, those that don’t want to take antibiotics, or those with severe acne who do not want to use isotretinoin.
A solution called Levulan is applied to the skin and allowed to incubate for one hour, after which blue light is used to target the oil glands. After treatment, strict sun avoidance is necessary for 48 hours. PDT not only improves acne, but can also help improve discoloration and scarring, pore size, texture and tone of the skin.
Looking for pre- and post-treatment information? Please read our PDT Treatment Instructions
Acne scarring
At Sand Lake Dermatology Center, we try to prevent scarring by treating your acne as early as possible. Treatment for acne scarring usually requires a variety of treatment modalities, including chemical peels to improve dark and red spots and, for deeper scarring, a laser treatment. Dermal fillers can also help soften specific areas.
At Sand Lake Dermatology Center, we are able to offer you a state-of-the-art combination approach to treating acne and acne scarring. Call us today at 407-352-8553 to schedule a medical appointment to discuss treatment options for acne or acne scarring. We look forward to seeing you!