Medical Treatment for Acne
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All of us have suffered from acne at one point or another in our lives. It is one of the most ubiquitous skin conditions and the reason for at least 80 percent of visits to dermatologists.
At the Westchester Center for Dermatology, we know that countless people struggle their whole lives to find an effective treatment for their acne. We offer a variety of treatment options, ranging from topical solutions to laser treatments, and can take the time to find a treatment that will provide you with the results you need.
What Causes Acne?
The bacteria Propionibacterium acnes is found in the body and released when the skin ends up shedding dead cells. In certain cases, bacteria can get trapped in the skin inside of hair follicles. This causes the follicles to become infected which leads to the formation of pimples.
An increase in the level of androgens also leads to acne. Androgens are a group of hormones responsible for a variety of functions in the body. An increase in androgens in the body can lead to more sebum (oily substance produced by glands in the skin) production, which clogs pores and traps bacteria in the skin.
Before Treatment
After Treatment
Before Treatment
After Treatment
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Treatment?
If you have tried multiple products and treatments that seem to produce little to no results, it may be time to consider seeing a professional for the treatment of your acne.
If you feel low on confidence because of acne and acne scars and if they are holding you back from having a proper social life, you can come in for treatment.
At the Westchester Center for Dermatology, we can treat acne scars, whiteheads, blackheads, and large spots on your face, neck, back, upper chest, and upper arms.
What Are Your Treatment Options?
There are many techniques we employ to treat acne and acne scars. These include laser skin resurfacing, chemical peels, photodynamic blue light therapy, antibiotics, and topical treatments.
Laser skin resurfacing – Laser skin resurfacing with the Fraxel laser is one of the most common techniques used to treat shallow and superficial acne scars. A high-energy amplified laser is used to vaporize sections of the uppermost layer of the skin, making room for new, fresh skin to grow.
Chemical peels – In this method, chemicals are used to remove the top layer of skin and allow new, clear skin to grow in its place. Chemical peels give your skin a more even color and are perfect for treating acne and many other skin issues. The chemical solution is applied to the skin, starting from the forehead and moving down to the cheeks and the chin. Light peels heal in no time, while the deeper peels need at least two weeks to heal completely.
Photodynamic blue light therapy – During photodynamic blue light therapy (an entirely non-invasive treatment), light-sensitive medication is first administered to the patient’s skin. This medication helps to make the cells more receptive to the treatment. Light energy waves are then used to target these cells and destroy Propionibacterium acnes bacteria. This results in a dramatic reduction in acne breakouts.
Antibiotics – This prescription option is helpful in getting rid of acne-causing bacteria and inflammation. By doing this, moderate and severe acne is reduced in appearance. Patients who have chosen this option may be taking antibiotics for over one month in order to get the results they desire.
Topical Treatments – Prescription lotions and other topical treatment options can be applied to the skin to kill acne-causing bacteria. When this occurs, the skin is often dried out and the dead skin cells flake off.
Arrange a Consultation
Dr. Kriegel and the practitioners at Westchester Center for Dermatology proudly see patients from all over New York, including but not limited to: Scarsdale, White Plains, Yonkers, New Rochelle and Mt. Vernon. To learn more about the right acne treatment for you, contact our office and schedule a consultation. The clinicians at Westchester Center for Dermatology are skilled dermatology specialists with years of experience.