What Is the Latest In Acne Treatments?

By Nicole Hayre, MD

Cosmetic Dermatology Center

. http://www.cosmetic-dermatology-center.com

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What Is the Latest In Acne Treatments?

Acne is an extremely common problem, which can vary from mild, to severe and debilitating. Although foods and poor hygiene have been blamed in the past, acne is largely determined by genetics.

This frustrating, chronic condition can have a devastating effect on an individual's psychological and social development, and can leave not only the skin, but the individual scarred. This is why it is important to seek treatment as early as possible.

What Treats Acne?

Acne treatments focus on killing the bacteria, which are involved in the break outs, and also focus on removing debris which is clogging the pores.

Clogged pores create an environment which can help the bacteria to grow, and cause a pimple. Many over-the-counter products utilize benzyol peroxide and salicylic acid to kill bacteria and clean out the pores. Unfortunately, these products can usually only help very mild acne.

Dermatologists prescribe many medicines which are stronger, and can help with more severe acne. These may include some of the same ingredients, but in a prescription strength, plus topical antibiotics, oral antibiotics, Retin-A, Differin, and Aczone, to mention a few. For scarring acne, Isotretinoin may be used. Even if these prescriptions work, they may take up to six weeks or longer for the patient to see the benefit.

Is There Another Option?

For those who have failed traditional prescriptions, or for those who want quicker results, a newer therapy is available. The Isolaz is an FDA-approved laser which combines a strong suction and a broadband light treatment.

Treatments are generally painless, and cause no downtime. The skin is usually smoother immediately, and those with oily skin may also notice a reduction in oil.

Acne improves from the therapy over the following week. Treatments are usually repeated every week or so, for an initial 4 to 6 treatments, depending on the acne severity.

Studies have shown that about 85% of patients respond well to treatments. Since there is still no definitive cure for acne, treatments may be repeated for flares or in the case of severe acne, on a monthly basis.

Who Can Have An Isolaz
Treatment?

One of the great things about Isolaz, is that it can treat all skin types. Patients can also continue their prescriptions, allowing for maximal benefit by combining therapies. Side effects are rare, and include temporary bruising.

To learn more about the proper acne therapy for you, please consult a board-certified dermatologist.