While acne most commonly affects teen and young adults, or so most people think, it can actually impact anyone. In fact, the skin condition is becoming increasingly common in older adults. Not only does acne cause an immediate skin concern when dealing with blemishes and breakouts, though. More and more individuals are finding their skin plagued with dark spots, discoloration, and acne scars as a result of ineffective treatment. Fortunately, however, there are several acne treatments that help to prevent and remove imperfections caused by acne.
Prevention Is Key
While it is possible to correct acne scarring once it has occurred, effective acne treatment helps prevent issues before they happen. There are several measures to be taken before and during a breakout to minimize discoloration and scarring:
- Medication – Applied topically or taken orally, medication can treat a breakout and reduce inflammation that may contribute to scarring. A dermatologist can help you determine the specific medication and skincare regimen that will best suit your skin needs.
- Anti-inflammatories – Inflammation associated with acne is actually what causes scarring and discoloration, so treating inflammation as soon as possible is key. Anti-inflammatory treatments, including a topical sulfur application or even a cortisone shot, can help immensely.
- Cleansers – The age-old advice to avoid picking at blemishes still holds true today. But since most people can’t help but pick at a breakout, cleansing the area after is just as important. A solution of half water, half hydrogen peroxide will help prevent bacteria from growing, but again, a dermatologist can provide you with a more skin-specific treatment.
Treatment Is Possible
In some cases, acne scarring is unavoidable. Whether it is the result of hormonal acne from the teen years or more complicated cystic acne, scars can be removed, and treatment is possible. Your dermatologist will work with you to determine the best course of action for your skin type and situation. Nevertheless, several treatment therapies are available:
- Laser Therapies – A combination of laser therapies can be used to both smooth the skin and restore plumpness to the affected areas. Laser treatment is targeted to the scarred areas and can, within just a few sessions, regenerate a fresh new surface and fill indentations left behind by scarring. Laser therapy helps reverse the damage caused by acne without harming surrounding skin.
- Skin Fillers – Another option for individuals with deep and pitted acne scarring, fillers are effective for treating some types of acne scars. This facial therapy is injected into the skin to reduce the appearance of indentations left behind by acne and to provide a smoother skin surface. While effective, this treatment must be repeated every few months to maintain the skin’s appearance.
- Chemical Peels – Peels are effective for both treating acne scarring and reducing breakouts. With this skin therapy, a chemical solution is applied to the skin to stimulate chemical exfoliation, allowing the skin to shed a layer and reveal fresh, new skin. This option typically requires a few treatments to achieve the desired effect, but it is long lasting and can also reduce the look of fine lines and other skin concerns.
Ready to Work with a Dermatologist?
If you are one of the many individuals suffering from the physical and emotional impact of acne and acne scarring, it’s time you seek help. Contact us at Kole Plastic Surgery for your free consultation today.
