Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be frustrating and challenging to manage, leading individuals to seek effective acne treatments. The journey to finding the right acne treatment can be overwhelming due to the vast number of options available. Also, each individual’s skin is unique, so what works for one person may not work for another.
At PURE Medical Spa, we understand the importance of finding the most effective acne treatment for clearer, healthier skin you desire. From topicals to lasers, today we will explore the most popular acne treatment options, including topicals, oral medications and lasers, so you can understand your options and help determine which treatment is right for you.
Exploring The Best Acne Treatments
Although there are many types of acne—whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, and more—clogged pores are always the culprit. Understanding your specific acne concerns can be difficult, especially because clogged pores stem from a variety of underlying factors like genetics, hormones, medications and bacteria.
From topicals to lasers, the most effective acne treatments reduce oil production and remove unwanted debris for brighter, clearer skin.
Topical Acne Treatments
Topical treatments are commonly used as a first-line approach for mild to moderate acne. These treatments typically include creams, gels, or lotions applied directly to the affected skin. Topical treatments work by targeting bacteria, reducing inflammation, unclogging pores and promoting cell turnover to prevent new acne breakouts.
- Benzoyl peroxide is a well-known ingredient in many over-the-counter and prescription acne treatments
- Benzoyl peroxide helps unclog pores by removing excess oil, dead skin cells, and debris
- Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that exfoliates the skin and helps unclog pores
- Salicylic acid also has mild anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe existing acne
- Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A and are highly effective in treating acne
- Retinoids unclog pores, promote the shedding of dead skin cells, and stimulate the growth of new, healthy skin
Oral Medications for Acne
In cases where topical treatments alone are not sufficient, oral medications may be prescribed by a dermatologist. Oral antibiotics, such as tetracycline or erythromycin, help combat bacterial overgrowth and inflammation. Hormonal therapies like oral contraceptives can be effective for hormonal acne in women.
- Oral antibiotics, such as tetracycline, doxycycline, or erythromycin, are often prescribed to treat inflammatory acne
- They work by targeting and reducing the bacteria associated with acne breakouts
- Long-term use of oral antibiotics is generally not recommended due to concerns about bacterial resistance
- Hormonal therapy is primarily used to address hormonal acne, which is often associated with hormonal imbalances
- Oral contraceptives (birth control pills) containing estrogen and progestin are commonly prescribed for women with hormonal acne and work by regulating hormone levels and reducing sebum production
- Isotretinoin, commonly known by its brand name Accutane, is a powerful oral medication reserved for severe and resistant forms of acne
- Treatment with isotretinoin is usually undertaken for a defined period, typically around 4 to 6 months due to potential side effects
Laser and Light Therapies for Acne Prone Skin
At PURE Medical Spa, we offer advanced laser and light therapies to target acne and promote skin healing. Plus, these med spa procedures do wonders for easing the look of acne scars and hyperpigmentation. These treatments are safe, non-invasive and can provide long-lasting results, which is why laser treatments at PURE may be right for you.
Acne Laser Resurfacing
Acne laser resurfacing is an effective cosmetic procedure that uses laser technology to improve the appearance of the skin with wonderful results. Acne laser resurfacing emits a controlled beam of light that is directed onto the targeted areas of the skin. The specific wavelength and intensity of the laser can vary depending on the type of laser used and the desired results.
The laser energy creates controlled thermal damage to the skin that stimulates the production of collagen, the protein that helps support the structure of the skin. Increased collagen production can improve the appearance of acne scars, reduce the visibility of redness, and promote overall skin rejuvenation.
Forever Young BBL™️ Photofacial
PURE Medical Spa clients love the Forever Young BBL™️ Photofacial when it comes to reducing the appearance of skin discoloration, wrinkles and fines for more even and smoother skin. This non-invasive cosmetic procedure can help improve acne-prone skin and reduce acne breakouts.
While primarily known for its skin rejuvenation benefits, Forever Young BBL™️ utilizes broadband light technology that targets and destroys the bacteria responsible for acne breakouts. The light energy can help regulate the activity of acne-causing glands, leading to a decrease in excess oil production. Collagen stimulation can smooth out rough skin, minimize the appearance of acne scars, and promote a more even skin tone.
Halo Laser
Halo is the world’s first ablative and non-ablative combination laser. PURE Medical Spa is proud to be one of few elite facilities in the Northwest to have this amazing system. Halo Laser achieves the results of deep resurfacing without the extended downtime.
It is the most effective treatment for dramatically improving sun-damaged skin, texture, and overall skin rejuvenation, while reducing vascularity, wrinkles, enlarged pores and acne scarring.
Pro-Fractional Laser
ProFractional is a laser procedure used to dramatically improve the overall appearance of your skin including wrinkles, scars, tone and texture. ProFractional laser treatment can also be beneficial for individuals with acne-prone skin, as it helps to improve acne scars, reduce active breakouts and enhance overall skin texture.
Because only a fraction of the skin is directly treated with the laser, healing time is accelerated, and downtime is reduced. You may experience some pinpoint bleeding and 2-4 days of redness and/or peeling with this procedure depending on the depth of the treatment.
PURE Luxe Facial
At PURE, our Luxe Facial is designed to give you a deep cleanse, exfoliation and hydration. It also features LED light rejuvenation therapy tailored to your skin tone. LED red light is a non-invasive treatment that can be effective in reducing mild to moderate acne breakouts and improving the overall appearance of the skin.
FAQs
What Type of Laser Treatment Is Best For Acne?
The type of laser treatment that is considered best for acne can vary depending on the individual’s specific skin condition and needs. Commonly used laser treatments for acne include Fractional Laser Treatment and LED Light Therapy. Although IPL is not a laser, it is commonly used for treating acne because it emits light that can target bacteria associated with acne breakouts and reduce inflammation.
How Do You Treat Acne After Laser Resurfacing?
Treating acne after laser resurfacing requires special care to ensure optimal healing and minimize the risk of complications. It’s important to follow post-treatment guidelines which can include gentle cleansing techniques, applying prescribed topical medications or ointments, and avoiding harsh skincare products that could irritate the treated skin.
What Should I Expect After My Laser Acne Treatment?
After laser treatment, the appearance of your skin can vary depending on the type of laser used, the specific treatment performed and your individual skin characteristics. It is common to experience temporary redness and swelling, as well as dryness and flaking of the skin, which is a normal part of the healing process.
Let’s Find The Right Acne Treatment For You
At PURE Medical Spa, our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized acne treatments that address the root causes of your acne and help you achieve clear, healthy skin. We offer a comprehensive range of treatments, including topicals, oral medications, and cutting-edge laser therapies, all performed in a state-of-the-art facility with the highest standards of safety and care.
Say goodbye to acne-related worries and embark on your journey to clearer skin. Contact PURE Medical Spa today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a confident, blemish-free complexion.
