Acne (Pimples)

Acne affects nearly 100% of the population at some point. For some, acne is mild and transient; for others, it can be severe and long lasting. Scarring from severe acne can be permanent and disfiguring. Acne usually begins around the time of puberty. Acne may improve after puberty, but for many, acne persists into and during middle age. Acne lesions form when the openings of oil glands (called sebaceous glands) in the skin become blocked. Trapped oil builds up within the gland, causing inflammation. The swelling within the oil gland can become so intense that the oil gland (and associated hair follicle) can rupture, leading to further inflammation. While the surge of hormones during puberty likely triggers this process, other factors such as stress, diet, and the influence of other hormones may also play a role. A bacterium called Propionibacterium acnes that is normally present on the skin likely plays a role in acne, but the precise link is still unclear. Any person with moderate or worse acne should be seen by a physician to discuss treatment options, because of the risk of permanent scarring.

Treatment of Acne:

Treatment for acne has improved dramatically in the last 2 decades. Many people get good relief with salicylic acid & benzoyl peroxide preparations, retinoids (such as Retin A), and topical antibiotics (such as benzoyl peroxide mixed with clindamycin). Common side effects are irritation and redness. You and your doctor will decide what is best for your individual needs. For acne that resists topical treatment, or for more severe acne, systemic treatments may be necessary. The tetracycline antibiotics are effective in many people. Erythromycin, Bactrim, and other antibiotics are second-line antibiotic therapies. However, long term antibiotic use can cause bacterial resistance in those who use them and should be used with caution. There are other side effects that must be discussed with your doctor.

For women, oral contraceptives (“the pill”) may also improve acne. For adult woman with acne, other hormonal therapies may be considered. For severe acne that is associated with scarring, isotretinoin (Accutane) is prescribed.

Due to the risks of systemic medications, newer, less invasive treatments have been sought. Laser therapy in conjuction with routine facials customized for acne prone skin have proven to be moderately effective.

Laser therapy

Our lasers are being used successfully in the treatment of acne. Lasers have been tested in clinical studies and were shown to significantly reduce acne after treatment with minimal side effects. Temporary discomfort, slight redness, and/ or minimal swelling were reported in some patients.