Acne Treatments

Acne Facials
Acne facials are customized based on skin type and severity of acne.  The treatment includes a chemical peel followed by comedonal extractions.  The process cleanses the skin, removes dirt and debris from clogged pores, gently exfoliates dead tissue and leaves the skin soothed and hydrated.  Acne facials are an excellent addition to topical and oral treatment regimens or for someone with occasional breakouts.

Acne Surgery
Acne surgery is an effective method for unblocking obstructed pores.  This process extracts comedones and helps aid in the clearing of acne.

Acne Light Therapy
The Omnilux Light System is an FDA approved, high intensity, narrow band light treatment that uses LED technology to treat mild to moderate acne.  The blue light destroys bacteria responsible for acne while the red light stimulates cell growth and decreases inflammation. 

The protocol for Acne Light Therapy is a 20 minute treatment twice a week for 4 weeks – a total of 8 sessions.  Chemical peels for acne-prone skin are performed prior to the light therapy at visits one and five.  The light sessions alternate between the blue and red light applications.  There is no discomfort while you rest on the exam table with the light device above the treated area.

Optimal results are obtained in 8 to12 weeks after therapy and most patients report that the appearance of acne is gone for 6 months.

PDT for Acne
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is an effective way to treat acne.  The process involves the use of a photosensitizing agent (Aminolevulinic Acid) and the application of a light source to activate the chemical.  A short rest period is associated with the treatment to allow time for the medication to “incubate” on the skin. 

This treatment is ideal for patients with inflammatory acne that has not responded to topical treatments or for patients who cannot tolerate or wish to be on oral medication.  It does require 48 hours of sun and bright light avoidance.  Several days of redness, swelling and peeling is expected followed by a much smoother, even-toned appearance of skin.  Depending on the severity of acne, 2 to 3 sessions might be required at 6-week intervals.

All of these procedures are considered cosmetic and non-medically necessary by insurance plans.

For additional information or to schedule a consultation,
please call 770.497.0699