Acne is a very common skin disorder that causes the formation of closed comedones (whiteheads), opened comedones (blackheads) on the skin and almost everyone has experienced acne at some point in their life, and many people have recurring problems with severe outbreaks which can lead to scarring.
ACNE
Acne occurs when a pore containing a pilosebaceous unit (oil gland) is blocked with dead skin cells. The underlying follicular epithelium may become inflamed from the blockage and by skin bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes, (papules and pustules). The clogged pore is great nutritional source for the bacteria and they proliferate in the sebum (oily substance) that accumulates in the plugged follicle or nodules.
When large quantities of infected sebum accumulate deep in the skin, this can result in the formation of acne cysts. These cysts are pus filled and appear as swollen, painful red lumps (cystic acne). This type of acne causes the most severe scarring.
Hormonal changes that occur during puberty are the leading cause of acne outbreaks. Adult acne may be the result of continuing hormonal imbalances. Skin care products that clog pores or contribute to oily skin can also promote the formation of pimples. Contrary to popular beliefs about acne, it isn’t caused by poor hygiene or eating chocolate and greasy foods, and it isn’t a skin problem that people must suffer through and allow to simply “run its course.” There is no evidence that avoiding chocolate or other foods will limit or prevent acne.
ACNE TREATMENTS
It is critical to treat acne as early as we can to prevent severe outbreaks which can lead to scarring.
Cleaning dead skin and excessive oil is helpful for controlling acne. Patients may be able to do this successfully with over-the-counter remedies such as facial washes containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. However, many people struggle to find the right skin care regimen without some expert advice. Moderate to severe acne may not respond to OTC treatments.
The Stone Mountain Skin Health Center and Dr. Son Nguyen provide a comprehensive treatment plan for acne patients:
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Blu-U Blue Light Photodynamic Therapy
Blu-U is a photodynamic therapy (PDT) treatment which uses blue light to kill active acne bacteria in your skin. Blu-U is not a laser, and is not used with a topical solution for the treatment of acne.
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The Vbeam Perfecta (Pulsed Dye Laser)
The Vbeam is a remarkable new treatment for resistant acne which uses the sophistication of laser technology. It is a commonly used for the treatment of inflammatory acne, red acne scars and rosacea.
The Vbeam laser light penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the red pigment in small blood vessels. This absorption results in heat and the heat coagulates the vessel and inflammation on the skin.
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SmartXide DOT Resurfacing: CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing
Once your active acne breakouts are successfully treated, additional acne scar and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) treatments may be performed to further improve the appearance of your skin. This may include CO2 laser skin resurfacing procedures.
If you’re interested in learning more about the different types of acne treatment plans and laser procedures, we encourage you to contact our acne expert to schedule your initial consultation by calling (678) 786-1118, (770) 508-8241 (Spanish), or (404) 989-1015 (Vietnamese).
