Acne vulgaris is a skin condition that affects nearly everyone to a various degrees. Over 90% of all adolescents and 25% of adults have problems with acne, the symptoms of which can sometimes be severe enough to cause physical and psychological stress.
Acne is the result of many interacting factors. The primary problem is the overproduction of oil (sebum) that is produced by the sebaceous glands in the hair follicles of the skin. When the ducts of these secretory glands are blocked due the buildup of the overlying dead skin layer, acne bacteria proliferate inside the follicle, forming “pimples” that cause swelling, inflammation and redness. Hormones have a regulatory part in the activity of sebaceous glands, therefore, acne is a disease prevalent not only in teens, but in premenopausal women. Severe cases of acne can form pustules and deep cysts under the skin, ultimately leaving scars, redness or pigmentation which can be permanent. While there is no cure for this skin condition, acne can be controlled and managed.
Just beneath the surface of the skin lie hundreds of tiny glands called sebaceous glands. Their function is to collect and excrete the oily substance called sebum, to keep the skin healthy.
At the MD Laser Skin Clinic, we offer a combination approach to controlling acne. After a detailed assessment performed by our medical doctor, a course of treatment will be designed that is appropriate for you. The type of treatment/s will depend on your medical history, your present acne condition, your medications, your age and gender. It is very important to have a proper medical evaluation done prior to any treatment since moderate to severe acne will require a variety of therapies. These therapies may include topical medicated creams, special cleansers, microdermabrasion and peels, oral medications (other than Accutane and hormone therapy) and now, the new way to clear up acne … BLU-U Blue Light photodynamic therapy.
The BLU-U is a special blue light that can kill the p. acnes bacteria in the skin. This procedure is non-invasive and pain free, with full-face and neck treatments taking approximately 15 minutes. The patient simply sits or lies down comfortably in our spa chair while the light is applied to the affected area (like a tanning bed). Patients are welcomed to bring their Walkman and music to enjoy during this procedure. The light works with all skin types and is safe for even tanned skin. There is no down-time with this alternative acne therapy, and has no known serious side effects (unlike oral Accutane which can produce some rather serious side effects).
The BLU-U treatment and should be done twice a week for about 4 weeks. It is important to stick to these scheduled appointments to see maximum results. The blue light can control the acne or clear it up for a long period of time. For maintenance, one treatment every 4 to 8 weeks is recommended. The procedure is relatively inexpensive and therefore is affordable in the long term.
After your acne is controlled, MD Laser Skin Clinic offers microdermabrasion treatments and a variety of chemical peels to improve the tone and texture of your skin. Our skin consultant is available by appointment to assess your skin to help improve acne scars and particularly, to address those stubborn areas of redness and pigmentation. It is a slow process to good skin but excellent care will reveal nice skin with time and patience!
For more information and details of treatments and fees, please book for a free general consultation appointment with our staff consultants. Exams with our medical doctor will be arranged only after the initial information appointment is completed.
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