Over the last year, have you tried treating your acne, but unfortunately, didn’t see results? Possibly, your selected treatment isn’t addressing your acne type or you have been using the wrong acne product.
Read on to learn more about the best acne products recommended by our dermatologists, and learn why most products prescribed by a dermatologist are superior to products that can be purchased at a drugstore.
ACNE PRODUCTS FOR ANY TYPE OF ACNE
The three most common types of acne are whiteheads, blackheads and inflamed lesions.
Leading cases of acne are bacteria and congested or clogged pores.
Acne products containing Salicylic and Benzoyl peroxide are effective in treating acne. These products kill the acne causing bacteria and remove dead surface skin cells that are prone to clog pores. Products available at the Dermatology Center for Skin Health, PLLC, that are great in combating acne include:
- Benzoyl 5% wash
- Benzaderm 10% wash
- Gly/Sal Pads
- Benzoyl Peroxide Gel
WHAT PRODUCTS SHOULD TEENAGERS AVOID? WHICH PRODUCTS ARE EFFECTIVE?
Some studies show that 70–87% of teens suffer from acne and 30–50% experience psychological issues associated with their acne.
Our dermatologists recommend teenagers avoid products that are overly harsh or drying. These products can cause irritation and actually worsen acne symptoms. Finding the right product, or combination of products, will aid in effectively treating current acne symptoms, while also preventing additional breakouts.
We have several prescription-based medications that are safe and effective for teens suffering from acne. For teenagers who are suffering from self-esteem issues related to acne symptoms, please read our Beyond Skin Deep blog.
ARE THERE ANY PERMANENT SOLUTIONS TO CURE ACNE, NOT JUST TREAT IT?
The most permanent solution for acne is an oral prescription medication, Isotretinoin, formally known by the brand name Accutane®.
Isotretinoin (Accutane®) is an effective treatment for the most severe types of acne.
This Vitamin A-based medication permanently reduces the size of the sebaceous glands that create sebum (oil). Sebum clogs the pore, trapping acne bacteria and results in acne (pimples) on the surface of the skin.
HOW DOES ADULT ACNE DIFFER FROM TEENAGE ACE? WHICH PRODUCTS GIVE GOOD RESULTS?
Adult acne is different than teenage acne.
Teenage acne is caused by active oil glands and excess oil production. Adult acne can be caused by hormonal activity. During the years that we age, our cell turnover slows down, resulting in oil build up. This build up may result in inflammation, cystic acne and pimples.
While acne can show up on the face, back, chest and shoulders, the most common place adult acne is found is on the lower face, jawline and chin.
Different types of acne require different treatment plans depending on what is determined to be primary cause of the patient’s symptoms. Your dermatologist will be able to diagnosis the cause and best treatment options available for effective treatment of your specific symptoms.
ARE THERE COSMETIC PROCEDURES THAT CAN IMPROVE THE APPEARANCE OF ACNE?
MICRODERMABRASION
Microdermabrasion is a treatment option to help decrease the appearance of scars caused by acne. Using a variable-level vacuum system and an assortment of treatment tips, the microdermabrasion wand lifts the skin against the appropriate treatment tip, removing the topmost layer of skin.
Microdermabrasion using the DermaSweep® at the Dermatology Center is safe and painless. Our DermaSweep® system does not use aluminum oxide crystals that can remain embedded in the skin and cause irritation. This eliminates the risks associated with traditional exfoliation or microdermabrasion. In addition, there are infusion treatments available with the DermaSweep® system specifically designed to treat the most common causes of acne.
To learn more about microdermabrasion, click here.
MICROPEN
Eclipse MicroPen® is an automated micro-needling procedure that can aid in the treatment of the appearance of acne.
Eclipse MicroPen® creates a fresher appearance and glow to the skin. It’s the most advanced medical-grade automated micro-needling device on the market.
Tiny needles create controlled micro-injuries to the skin to aid in the production of collagen and elastin. The skin’s repair process results in a thicker epidermis with a softer appearance of wrinkles or scarring.
Eclipse MicroPen® also creates micro-channels, which allow the skin to absorb topical gels, creams and serums more effectively, enhancing the deeper layers of the skin.
To learn more about the Eclipse MicroPen®, download our Guide to Cosmetic Procedures.
CHEMICAL PEEL
Chemical peels are a skin-resurfacing procedure that removes the top layers of the skin. The regenerated skin is smoother and more youthful in appearance. Chemical peels can be used to help treat wrinkles, and skin discoloration or scars caused by acne.
Chemical Peels work at varying depths (light, medium or deep) depending on the desired result. Each type of chemical peel uses a different chemical solution and produces different outcomes.
Consult with your dermatologist to see if chemical peels are viable treatment option for your acne symptoms.
CAN YOU USE ACNE TREATMENTS LONG-TERM?
Depends on the product being used. Antibiotics are not safe for long-term use; however, many other treatments can be.
Your dermatologist will best be able to address changes needed to regarding your long-term treatment plan.
DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED ACNE PRODUCTS VS DRUGSTORE ACNE PRODUCTS
At the Dermatology Center for Skin Health, PLLC, we see many individuals who have tried numerous over-the-counter, drugstore products, but in the end, saw no improvement. This is why we always recommend using dermatology-recommended acne products.
Products at the Dermatology Center for Skin Health, PLLC, utilize pharmaceutical grade ingredients. These grade A ingredients have higher concentrations, giving them a more potent and powerful effect.
The products sold at the Dermatology Center for Skin Health have been curated for our line for their affordable price points and proven effectiveness by our physicians.
THE DERMATOLOGY CENTER FOR SKIN HEALTH, PLLC | ACNE TREATMENTS IN MORGANTOWN
At the Dermatology Center for Skin Health, PLLC, we’ve been helping patients with acne for 12 years.
Call 304.598.3888 to make your appointment today, and download our free Guide to Acne eBook for more quality information on acne.
