All you need to know about Acne
Acne vulgaris, known simply as acne, is among the most common skin disease that is commonly seen during adolescence, it can also affect people of all ages too.
Acne occurs when your hair follicles or pores become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Acne can take many different forms, including blackheads or whiteheads, pimples and pustules, or simple scaly red patches. They usually appear on the face, neck, chest, upper back and shoulders, varying in size, shape, number and concentration. Acne may appear in outbreaks of differing severity for different lengths of time. Scarring may result from severe acne.
“Acne risk factors can be hereditary, hormonal, anxiety and stress, hot and humid climates, oil-based makeup contact, lifestyle and diet.”
Although hormones are often somewhat responsible, as commonly seen in adolescents; an increased level of stress as well as the consumption of certain foods can also play a role. Acne is considered unsightly; acne and acne scarring may cause significant reduction in the quality of life, depending on individual patient.
“Acne is a common problem. It can however, be a reason for low self-confidence and even anxiety or depression about one’s appearance. But treatment is available, and it is effective in many cases.”
What about Acne Redness?
Acne Redness can be seen when an inflammatory acne breakout occurs and erythema develops around the follicular openings. It is likely due to a change in micro-vascular structures of the superficial dermis after an injury to the skin caused by the acne itself or by poorly done extraction. This redness can persist long after the acne itself had resolve, which is very frustrating for patients. Often, patients have to wait many months for the redness to go away. If ongoing acne is still present, there can be many different shades of redness ranging from dark brownish spots (from older lesions) to brightly inflamed reddish spots (newer lesions) all over the patient’s face.
How can Acne be treated?
Treatment regimen can vary, and it depends on one’s age, type and severity of one’s acne, and how much is one able to commit to the treatment. In most anti-acne treatments, you probably will not be able to see results immediately, and your skin could get worse before it can get better. It might take many months or years for your acne to clear up completely.
Acne treatment ranges from over-counter topical creams or lotions to doctor prescribed medications. Other treatment options include microdermabrasion, chemical peel, light therapy, intense pulsed light (IPL), photodynamic therapy, laser peel, etc. Often, a combination of treatments can be indicated for better outcomes. There is no true way to cure acne, the main goal is proper acne control to reduce the spread of the bacteria, and also to reduce the risk of redness and scarring that could occur with it.
Introducing Lutronic Spectra Laser with Gold Toning Laser
How Does these Lasers Work?
Lutronic Spectra Laser treatment:
- By using highly specialized laser energy, we can reduce acne and hyperpigmentation marks over the skin. The laser works to help evening out the skin tone, as well as reduce pigmented lesions caused by the acne itself, it can also reduce sebum secretion (which can prevent clogging and thus prevent acne), resulting in fairer and smoother skin.
Gold Toning Laser treatment:
- This laser is aimed at acne redness and inflammation. It gently penetrates the skin to reach the tiny vessels which are the cause of the diffuse redness seen with acne. It only reduces inflammation and swelling, and does not damage any tissue at all. This laser is suitable for all skin types and is the most effective for acne redness treatment.
In short, the benefits of choosing Lutronic Spectra Laser and Gold Toning Laser are as below:
- Reduces all types of acne
- Reduce sebum production
- Shrinks large pores
- Reduces redness from inflamed acne
- Safe even for inflamed acne
- No medication required
- Reduced recurrence
- Painless procedure
What to Expect During Your Treatment?
Your doctor will begin the treatment by properly assessing individual skin type, severity of acne and inflammation; specific laser settings are then chosen and used for treating different lesions. You will hear a slight snapping sound when the laser is fired and may feel a mild tingling or warmth throughout the process. Your doctor may make multiple passes with the laser over your skin during each treatment.
Majority of patients report no pain, only experiencing a slight warm feeling on their skin, some even describe it as a light prickling sensation. No topical anesthesia is required.
Is there any Down Time?
There are no major side effects associated with this treatment. Your skin may experience some mild redness which is temporary. With almost no downtime, you can immediately return to your daily activities after treatment.
How do I take care of my skin after the Laser Treatment?
Continuous sun protection is the most important post treatment care, this include frequent sunscreen application, wearing UV blocking clothing and staying out of the sun. Second most important thing is ensuring your skin is properly hydrated by using gentle skin care products to help hasten results.
How many Treatments will I need?
Results will gradually be seen after a period of several months, noticeable improvement can be seen after each session. Most individuals are recommended to complete a treatment cycle of 5 to 10 sessions spaced 2 weeks apart, amount of treatment required varies depending on your skin condition and severity of your acne.
Your doctor will suggest you different treatment options for discussion, and tailor a treatment regime that is right for you.
This Laser Treatment may not be suitable for you if
- You are currently pregnant.
- You are recently treated with Roaccutane
- You have experienced abnormal wound healing.
- Your skin is prone for keloid scarring.
- You are currently on light sensitizing medication.
- You are likely to have seizures triggered by light.
Experience Sharing:
Beau & Hans 