There are numerous causes for acne, and puberty is only the beginning. Acne is caused by hormone changes, pollution, sun exposure, genetics and stress. Luckily, you don’t have to grin and bear it. Find out more about types of acne skin treatments.

Topical Acne Treatments

When acne isn’t responsive to over-the-counter treatments, it’s time to seek care from a qualified dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon. Some mild cases of acne can be solved with a prescription for a topical cream known as Tretinoin, or Retin-A. In addition to treating acne, Retin-A can also be beneficial for sun damage and fine lines. You may experience redness during early use, which should subside within a few weeks.

Antibiotic Skin Treatment for Acne

An antibiotic, referred to as Accutane, may be prescribed for more severe cases of acne. Accutane is taken orally, which may be beneficial if acne is present on other parts of the body. Medication is taken for about six months. Normally, patients will not see results during the first two months.

Chemical Peel for Acne Skin Treatment

A chemical peel is a noninvasive cosmetic surgery that can help clear acne. A chemical solution exfoliates the damaged layers of the skin. Chemical peels can be adjusted from light to deep treatment. Deep phenol chemical peels yield the best results, but light chemical peels contain acne fighting alpha-hydroxy or glycolic acids.

Chemical peels improve skin texture, help clear up acne and reduce acne scars. They also reduce wrinkles and fine lines. Regular light peels can provide lasting benefits when accompanied by an appropriate skin care regimen at home.

Treat Acne With Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a skin polishing treatment that can be used to treat acne and acne scars. A cosmetic surgical tool is used to direct crystals onto the surface of the skin. The crystals ablate the dead damaged layers of the skin, making room for healthy new skin. Microdermabrasion takes less than an hour. The non-allergenic crystals may be more appropriate for individuals with sensitive skin.

Blue Light Acne Treatment

Blue light therapy is a mild acne treatment that provides massive benefits. Treatment involves safe exposure to high intensity blue light. Blue light therapy requires weekly 30-minute sessions until the acne disappears.

Blue light therapy addresses the causes of acne, in addition to symptoms. Most patients enjoy the results from blue light acne treatment for several months. Follow up sessions are recommended for sustained benefits.

Blue light therapy may be combined with a photosensitizing solution called Levulan. Levulan can intensify treatment and increase results. In addition, Levulan reduces the duration for each therapy session.

Intense Pulsed Light Acne Treatment

Intense pulsed light therapy is a new procedure that yields impressive results. Intense pulsed light is a comprehensive treatment, addressing acne, underlying causes and reducing acne scars. During treatment, different wavelengths of light penetrate the skin. Multiple sessions are normally required for best results. Many patients enjoy the benefits of intense pulsed light therapy for up to a year.

Cosmetic Laser Surgery for Acne

Lasers can be used for many skin rejuvenation treatments. Cosmetic laser surgery is also a proven method for treating acne and acne scars. Heat from the laser goes directly to the source of acne, reducing oil production from the sebaceous glands. Laser treatment also induces collagen production and improves skin tone, rejuvenating the appearance of the skin.

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