What Causes Acne?

Acne is a skin condition that manifests as various types of bumps including whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and cysts. It is estimated that at some point in our lives, acne affects 80% of the population. When the pores of the skin become clogged with too much oil, dead skin cells, and/or bacteria, the result is acne.

Factors including heredity, stress, hormonal changes, medications, birth control pills, heat, sun, humidity, friction against the skin, cosmetics/moisturizers, and some industrial chemicals can all trigger an outbreak.

There are several types of acne lesions. The basic lesion is a comedone which is a sebaceous gland blocked by oil, dead skin cells and bacteria. A closed comedone is a small skin-colored bump under the skin; an open comedone has a surface opening filled with black debris. When inflammation is situated deeper in the pore, a nodule (a firm red painful bump, deep under the skin) is produced. This nodule may grow and become a cyst which is a deep cavity filled with pus and cellular debris.

What Treatments Are Available?

There are several options available to clear and control acne. The two main categories are home care options and professional in-office treatments.

CosMedics Acne Treatments

1. Chemical Peels

Chemical peels work by expelling clogged pores, reducing inflammation, and killing the bacteria that cause acne eruptions. Typically a series of treatments are often necessary along with a home care regimen. Light acne peels are performed by a medical esthetician. The process usually takes 30 to 45 minutes and although some client's faces may seem a bit pink afterwards, there is no "downtime" and makeup can be applied immediately after the treatment.

2. Laser Treatments

Laser treatments work by delivering a laser light that kills the bacteria responsible for the acne. Laser therapy effectively clears 70%-90% of moderate, inflammatory acne in four to six weeks. Results are especially impressive when compared with conventional treatments, such as topical creams and oral antibiotics. Laser treatments usually help control acne breakouts for four to eight months; after that, occasional touch ups may be necessary.

3. Radio Frequency

Current research is being done in the treatment of moderate and severe acne using a radio frequency device called ThermaCool by Thermage. Radio frequency has shown very promising early results in the treatment of both acne scarring and active acne. Although it is still early, results can be seen in 1 to 4 months after treatment. Often, a single 20 minute treatment under topical (cream) anesthesia is all that is required. We invite you to contact CosMedics to schedule your no charge consultation and evaluation today.