Acne & Acne Scarring Treatments
Our Board Certified Dermatologists are here to help you with acne and acne scars!
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. Dr. Rebecca Baxt and Dr. Saida 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 an 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 and Acne Scar 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. For more severe acne Dr. Rebecca Baxt and Dr. Saida Baxt may prescribe oral medications or cortisone injections.
We commonly use topical creams and Chemical Peels. Acne scarring may be eliminated with a deep (TCA) peel. Dermal (facial) fillers may also be recommended by Dr. Rebecca Baxt and Dr. Saida Baxt to improve the appearance of acne scars by filling in or lifting the depressions in the skin from the scar. Laser treatments are a mainstay of our acne scar treatment programs.
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) for facial rejuvenation non-surgically renews your face using your own plasma. This revolutionary treatment has been found to be beneficial in healing scarring due to acne. PRP causes collagen growth which helps reduce indented acne scars that are due to lack of collagen. Multiple treatments are required. Learn more about PRP facial rejuvenation.
Depending on your acne condition, advanced laser and light source treatments may be recommended, such as:
Isolaz® Acne Treatment
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
Photodynamic Therapy is FDA approved for treatment of precancerous lesions on the face. PDT is effective for treatment of acne as well.
Smoothbeam Laser
Smoothbeam is FDA approved for treating acne and was originally FDA approved for treating wrinkles.
Fraxel® Dual Laser Resurfacing
Fraxel® laser treats acne and acne scarring by penetrating the top layers of the skin to stimulate collagen and skin cell renewal resulting in healthy new skin.
V Beam Perfecta
V Beam Perfecta pulse dye laser is effective in reducing red acne scarring.
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!
At BAXT CosMedical®, we deliver outstanding patient care and excellent customer service with the best technology available. We provide honest consultations and natural results. Let our family treat your family.
Please call our office 201-265-1300 for a consultation with one of our excellent Board Certified Dermatologists or feel free to contact us online today.
*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.
