Acne

Acne & Scaring

Acne is the term for the blocked pores, pimples, and deeper lumps that can appear on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and upper arms. Not only is acne unattractive, it can also cause permanent scarring and emotional distress. Acne is a common condition that causes blocked pores, pimples, cysts and other lesions on the skin. While it is most common in teenagers, acne can affect people of all ages, most often appearing on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and upper arms.

For many patients, once acne lesions clear up or are removed, they leave behind discolorations and indentations on the skin. In many cases, acne can lead to scarring, especially if it is severe. Scars may form after acne has healed and cleared, and may vary from person to person. Acne scarring is most often caused by larger acne lesions, such as cysts or nodules, which can swell and rupture, causing a break in the wall of the individual pore. Infected material from the inflamed lesion can spill out through this break and can affect the nearby healthy tissue, leading to the appearance of a scar.

Preventing Acne Scars:

The most effective way to prevent acne scars from developing is to stop the lesions that lead to scarring from forming. It is also important for patients to avoid picking or popping active lesions, as this can lead to infection and increase the risk of scarring. Picking at scabs should also be avoided to allow natural healing to occur without interruption. Sun exposure can lead to further damage of the skin and may delay healing of scars and lesions.

Acne Treatments:

It is very important to seek the help and advice of a physician as soon as acne appears.
Many effective treatment options are available.

Acne Medication:

Topical retinols, Benzoyl Peroxide and antibiotics. Some individuals require the use of oral antibiotics or accutane to effectively eliminate acne.

Peel:

Peel is extremely effective in clearing the pores and providing fresh new skin.

Microdermabrasion:

Deep cleans the pores, improves acne scarring and leaves the skin feeling and looking smooth.

Laser treatments:

If acne scarring has appeared, laser resurfacing can help smooth and refine the texture of your skin.