Acne is a skin condition that causes whiteheads, blackheads, and inflamed red growths (papules, pustules and cysts) to form. These growths are commonly called pimples or “zits.”
When glands produce too much oil, pores or holes in the skin can become blocked. Dirt, debris, bacteria, and inflammatory cells build up. The blockage is called a plug or comedone and may look white, red or black. When the plug breaks open, the material inside causes swelling and red bumps to form. If the inflammation is deep in your skin, the pimples may enlarge to form firm, painful cysts and in many cases, long-lasting discoloration and even permanent scarring.
Acne is most common in teenagers, but can occur at any age. Three out of four teenagers have some type of acne. Acne tends to run in families and can be triggered by hormonal changes due to puberty, menstrual periods, pregnancy, birth control pills, perimenopause, or stress. It can also be caused by oily cosmetics and hair products, certain drugs (such as steroids, testosterone, estrogen and phenytoin), high levels of humidity and sweating.
There are a number of self-care strategies that can be used to help reduce acne. However, many people find themselves using these techniques without much improvement in their skin. The embarrassment of acne break-outs and its effects on self-esteem along with the hard work it takes to control acne are quite devastating. Unfortunately, the cost and side effects of over-the-counter treatments, antibiotics, and other drugs prescribed are quite high.
Over the past several years, developing technology has allowed a number of people to find significant improvement in their acne through the use of lasers and light therapy. Advances in Laser/Light technology have significantly reduced the risk of significant side effects, and most patients experience minimal pain or downtime. In fact, many times light therapy can improve the overall health of your skin now and years later.
Rejuvenation Clinic of Sauk Prairie offers several types of laser treatments for acne and acne scarring, many times used in combination to deliver the best results. The right treatment is quite individual and is decided upon at the time of your complimentary consultation after careful evaluation of your type of acne, severity, and overall skin type. Contact us today to find out more!