Acne

We’ve all had it, and we all hate it. Acne usually starts at puberty but sadly can continue into the adult years. The major problem with acne is that if left untreated, the skin can become scarred or pigmented. There are various types of acne scars that can occur, but what is common amongst them is the emotional turmoil that is shared by all who’ve experienced it. Though scarring can generally be treated, it is much easier to prevent the acne in the first place. Certain types of acne scars, such as “ice pick” scars, are virtually impossible to treat.

What is Acne?

Treating acne is a step wise process and often uses combination therapies. Some methods are:

  • Prescription-strength skin care products including glycolic acid, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and retin-A, which may be the initial choices for treatment
  • Microdermabrasion
  • Antibiotics (topical or oral)
  • Birth control pills or spirinolactone, both of which can be used to control the hormonal influences that cause acne
  • ALA, known as photodynamic therapy with Blue Light
  • IPL laser treatments

Dr. Prasad will sit down with you and discuss a comprehensive approach to reducing your acne. After going over the options and figuring out the most suitable plan for you, an individualized treatment protocol will be started. Regular followups with Dr. Prasad ensure that the program is working and if needed, minor changes are made to continue the success of your treatment.

How do you treat acne scarring?

There are several types of acne scars. They may be “ice pick” scars, flat or depressed similar to a chicken pox scar, or red or dark in color. The scars may be in one place or all over, and they may be recent or very old.

There are various ways in which Dr. Prasad treats acne scars. Initially, we want to focus on treating existing acne to prevent new scarring. Secondly, Dr. Prasad evaluates the type of scar and decides the best modalities to use to relieve the scarring. The treatment options range from Fotofacials to help with redness, Rx skincare products (such as hydroquinone) to decrease hyperpigmentation, or Fractional Resurfacing with the Sciton Profractional Therapy to smoothen the texture of your skin. For some patients, full field resurfacing may be needed to really improve the texture. The amount of downtime needed will determine or be determined by the type of laser treatment which is performed.

Other treatment options also include injections with dermal fillers such as Restylane or Juvederm to fill in the scar.