By Nasrin Mani, M.D.
Acne can be a serious problem when there seems to be no help in sight. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that as many as 50 million people are trying to find ways to treat persistent breakouts. And we cannot assume that acne only affects teenagers. Research indicates that, in recent years, more adults are seeking treatment to stop chronic acne. Treating acne is not about vanity and having clear skin; it is about mitigating the profound emotional effects that acne can cause.
If you or someone you love has been trying to self-treat acne with little success, there is sufficient reason to seek professional care. Your skincare specialist at La Jolla Cosmetic Laser Clinic has the extensive knowledge-base that is needed to recognize the treatment protocol that is right for you.
Types of Acne: Don’t Get Caught Up in Terminology
Several terms are commonly used to describe acne. We hear that acne might be cystic or that it is stress- or hormone-induced, but what all the jargon really comes down to is determining whether acne is inflammatory or non-inflammatory. Focusing in on the two basic categorizations of acne can guide the treatment process for faster results.
- Non-inflammatory acne affects superficial tissue and appears as whiteheads and blackheads, as well as diffuse redness.
- Inflammatory acne describes the condition of extensive redness and, in some cases, mild swelling around clogged pores. The cysts that develop with inflammatory acne are uncomfortable and a potential precursor to scarring.
We may categorize acne, but that does not mean a person has only one of these two types. Often, there is a combination of non-inflamed and inflamed lesions on the face, neck, shoulders, and other parts of the body. It is necessary for us to identify these differences so that we may plan the appropriate method of treatment for optimal results.
Attacking from All Angles
One of the problems with the self-treatment of acne is that, most often, it hits breakouts from only one angle. For example, one of the standard approaches to eliminating pimples is to wash with a special-formulation of facewash. Depending on the seriousness of a breakout, topical benzoyl peroxide cream may also be applied to trouble-spots. In many cases, this is not enough to put an end to painful acne.
A thorough examination of your skin is necessary to fully grasp the nature of your breakouts. This initial analysis facilitates the gentlest care that may involve laser or light therapies with or without photosensitizing medication. We have several modalities that enable us to meet the unique needs of each client.
Learn more about your options for eradicating acne and acne scarring. Call (858) 225-8380.
