Acne & Acne Scarring Treatments
- Chemical Peels
- CO2 Laser Resurfacing
- Fillers
- Fraxel® Dual Laser
- Isolaz® Acne Treatment
- Microdermabrasion
- PDT (Photodynamic Therapy)
- Skin Care
- Smoothbeam Laser
- Clear + Brilliant™
What Is Acne
As most teenagers and many adults know, acne is a common skin condition that is often just a nuisance, but in some cases, the acne is severe enough to cause scarring and can negatively affect a person’s self-image. Acne is one of the most common conditions treated by BAXT CosMedical® Board Certified Dermatologists.
Medically speaking, acne (Acne Vulgaris) is a condition that affects the skin’s oil glands at the base of hair follicles. During puberty the oil glands begin to secrete more sebum (oily substance) which can cause the follicles to become plugged and bacteria to form which causes pimples, whiteheads, blackheads and in some cases nodules and cysts. There a various types of acne including:
- Comedonal Acne – clogged pores
- Inflammatory Acne – whiteheads, blackheads and pimples (more common in men)
- Cystic Acne - when infections penetrates deeply into the skin, causing red bumps full of pus
- Hormonal-onset Acne – Occurs in women when estrogen levels decline.
Acne is more severe in males in their teenage years, but often females have a tougher time in their twenties and thirties. Drs. Saida Baxt and Rebecca Baxt treat many patients who have acne into their forties and fifties.
Dr. Rebecca Baxt advises that since each patient's skin is different, care must be exercised in
treating acne especially when it comes to home or over-the-counter treatments. If over the counter treatments are not working, it is time to see a board certified dermatologist!
What Are Some Of The Common Causes Of Acne?
Acne occurs when the follicle of a oil gland clogs. Acne can occur on the face, chest, and back. There are some things that can make acne worse or outbreaks more frequent. These include:
- Fluctuating hormone levels before a woman’s menstrual cycle starts
- Pollution
- Picking or squeezing pimples (DON’T DO THIS!)
- Over scrubbing (irritating) the skin
- Stress
However, contrary to popular belief foods are not the major cause of acne, although in selected patients there can be a food sensitivity. Common food culprits include sugar, alcohol, dairy, chocolate, oily foods, high glycemic index foods. Each patient is different.
What Causes Acne Scarring?
Some types of acne are more likely to cause scarring than other types. For example, a simple whitehead or blackheads do not cause scarring. But inflammatory or cystic acne can cause noticeable scarring. Some acne patients may be prone to scarring due to: Family history or genetics
- Lack of early treatment
- Picking or causing trauma to the skin
Acne scarring can affect a person’s self-esteem and quality of life. With advanced treatments, scarring can be corrected*.
What Acne Treatment Is Best For Me?
At BAXT CosMedical® we offer many acne treatments. But since each person’s skin is different and the degree of their acne and/or acne scarring varies, patients are examined and prescribed a customized acne treatment plan.
We commonly use topical creams and Chemical Peels. For more severe acne Drs. Saida Baxt and Rebecca Baxt may prescribe oral medications or cortisone injections. Depending on your acne condition, advanced laser treatments may be recommended, such as:
Smoothbeam is FDA approved for treating acne and was originally FDA approved for treating
wrinkles.
Isolaz® is a photopneumatic device (intense pulsed light with suction) that kills bacteria and puts acne into remission*. It also helps fade the marks left over from acne breakouts.
Photodynamic Therapy is FDA approved for treatment of precancerous lesions on the face. We have found it effective for treatment of acne as well.
Take Control Of Your Acne!
We look forward to evaluating your skin and lifestyle to find a regimen that works for you to keep your acne under control. Stop wasting your money and time at the cosmetics counter or asking friends for skin care advice--get professional help to clear your skin!
Please call our office (201)265-1300 for a consultation with one of our excellent Board Certified Dermatologists for a full evaluation.
*Results may vary for different patients and are not guaranteed.
Contact Information
Please contact us via email for a prompt response from our office. Call us for an appointment today at (201) 265-1300. You can see our great before and after photo gallery here.
