How Cosmetic Acne Treatments Can Restore Confidence
No matter how common acne may be, it can still produce feelings of depression, frustration, and embarrassment, intruding on our social lives and affecting our careers and relationships. The good news is that there are resources and support groups out there to help those suffering from acne-related stress regain their confidence. Indeed, there are plenty of ways to remain self-assured in your skin, with or without acne. But if you feel like your acne is holding you back, you may want to seek treatment as well. Here’s how cosmetic acne treatments can help you restore your confidence.
Chemical Peels Tame Acne and Reduce Lines, Wrinkles, and Discoloration
If you have a busy schedule, getting a chemical peel treatment is a fast and popular way to calm down the surface of your skin. These treatments are often offered by spas and salons, though it’s best to get your chemical peel done by a certified dermatologist. The most common type of chemical peel for acne is a light-duty peel, which is a superficial facial treatment containing some type of hydroxy acid, such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid. These chemical peels help exfoliate the skin, dissolving oil build-up, unclogging pores, and helping to get rid of dead skin cells.
After your chemical peel treatment, which may only take 30 minutes, you can get on with your day feeling more confident with your bright, fresh, smooth skin. For the best results, skin care experts suggest that chemical peels be done in conjunction with other acne treatments, such as over the counter acne cleansers containing benzoyl peroxide, or prescribed anti-acne medication.
Laser Treatments Can Reduce Scarring and Mild Acne
A somewhat newer development, laser treatment for acne is growing in popularity as a way to reduce both acne outbreaks and acne scars. This treatment involves the use of concentrated light pulses to target certain bacteria in the skin to help clear up acne and stimulate the growth of new skin cells. While current acne laser treatments don’t typically clear acne completely, multiple treatments can greatly reduce the inflammation and scarring associated with this skin condition.
As with chemical peel treatments, patients should use other dermatologist-recommended acne treatments alongside laser treatment for the best results. Results will vary, but some patients will see major improvements in their skin and confidence in a matter of months.
Dermabrasion Unclogs Pores and Lightens Acne Scars
Dermabrasion is another commonly used method for treating acne and clearing up skin in general. This method is most effective in efforts to reduce acne scars left over from previous breakouts. During this process, your certified practitioner will use a coarse material to gently scrape away dead skin cells to encourage new skin cell growth. With proper maintenance and care, about 5-8 days after treatment the new skin will have started to grow in. Most patients will notice clearer, smoother skin in 6-8 weeks or less, feeling more confident and ready to take on the world.
Medical Acne Treatments for When Cosmetic Treatments aren’t Enough
Cosmetic dermatology has so much to offer in terms of treating acne and helping those with acne feel more comfortable in their own skin. That said, sometimes acne must be tackled at its root, requiring medical intervention. Severe acne might be caused by hormonal changes or immune system malfunction. Whatever the case may be, your dermatologist may recommend medical treatments such as topical retinoids, oral medications, antibiotics to fight infection, or other prescribed methods for fighting acne at the source. These medical treatments can often be used in conjunction with cosmetic treatments, too.
Acne can be difficult to live with. Fortunately, you have both cosmetic and medical options to reduce the appearance of acne and acne scars so you can live your life with complete confidence. At Premier Dermatology Partners, one of our goals is to help our patients feel good about their skin and themselves. Our cosmetic, medical, and surgical expertise allow us to help you love and care for your skin. To learn more about our team and all the services we provide, contact us.