A Clear Complexion is Possible

Most people think of acne as a teenager skin condition. While most teenagers have some acne, adults in their 20’s, even into their 40’s or older, can get acne. Acne often clears up after several years even without treatment but you need not wait to outgrow it and live with the self consciousness that accompanies a bad complexion. Untreated acne can also leave scars which are more difficult to treat later.

SkinCare Physicians & Surgeons has had excellent success with acne patients, both adolescents and adults.

Before		After

27 year old woman after CO2 and Erbium laser treatment (laser resurfacing) of acne scars.
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Treatment of Acne

Control of acne is an ongoing process. All acne treatments work by preventing new acne. Existing blemishes must heal by themselves and improvement can be seen over time. If your acne has not improved after 6 to 8 weeks, you may need to a change in your treatment.

The treatment or combination of therapies will vary according to your type of acne.

Mild to Moderate Acne

Many non-prescription acne lotions and creams help milder cases. However, many will also make your skin dry if used too often. If you use these products, follow instructions carefully.
You may be prescribed topical creams, gels or lotions with vitamin A or benzoyl peroxide to help unblock the pores and reduce bacteria.These products may cause some drying and peeling, as well. Your clinician will advise you on the correct use and how to handle side effects.
There are also antibiotics that are applied to the skin
When large red bumps (cysts) are present, the dermatologist may inject cortisone directly into the bumps to help them go away. Some cases require opening pimples or removing blackheads and whiteheads. Don’t pick, scratch, pop or squeeze your pimples yourself as this may cause more redness, swelling, inflammation and scarring could result.
No matter what special treatments are prescribed by SkinCare Physicians & Surgeons, your daily skin care can make a real difference in your skin. And, you must continue this proper skin care until the tendency to have acne has passed.

Moderate to Severe Acne

Antibiotics taken by mouth are often prescribed for moderate or severe cases. Antibiotics work to reduce the bacteria in the follicle and may also decrease the skin redness directly.
No matter what special treatments are prescribed by SkinCare Physicians & Surgeons, your daily skin care can make a real difference in your skin. And, you must continue this proper skin care until the tendency to have acne has passed.

Treatment of Acne Scars

There are a number of treatment options that can make a noticeable difference in the appearance of acne scars. Depending on the type of acne scar, laser treatments - either ablative using the CO2 and Erbium laser or nonablative using the Fraxel laser - can be very effective. Soft tissue fillers such as collagen or Restylane can elevate scars. To correct pitted scars, Dr. Tse performs micro-excisions in combination with laser therapy.