All it takes is a close look around a crowded room to realize that acne is extremely common. In fact, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, it’s the most common skin condition in the US. Unfortunately, “common” is often mistaken with, “doesn’t need treatment.” Allowing acne to simply run its course can cause long-lasting damage to the skin, like scarring. Plus, as you may experience first-hand, acne doesn’t always go away on its own. Fortunately, Atlanta skincare patients have several ways to overcome acne, and modern technology has opened many new doors.

Isolaz™

How does it work? The Isolaz™ system combines a variety of approaches. First, vacuum pressure is used to gently but effectively clear pores of excess oil and other debris that can clog them and lead to a pimple. Targeted light is then sent to the pores to kill acne-causing bacteria. Finally, the vacuum pressure is used to more effectively apply a topical medication.

Who can it help? Isolaz™ acne treatments are safe and effective for all skin types, and can treat bacteria-caused acne breakouts on the face, chest, and back.

What’s involved in the treatment? Isolaz™ treatments are brief, often lasting around thirty minutes or less, depending on the area being treated. While the number of sessions needed depends on the individual patient, treatments are painless and don’t require any downtime.

DiamondTome™ for Microdermabrasion

How does it work? DiamondTome™ is a microdermabrasion wand tipped with natural diamond chips. The wand exfoliates the skin to remove the damaged and dead cells on the skin’s surface, ensuring that these skin cells don’t clog the pores and cause acne breakouts.

Who can it help? Microdermabrasion at Skin Medics™ Medical Spa is only recommended for specific acne patients. Those who tend to have inflamed acne should generally avoid microdermabrasion, as the treatments can further inflame and irritate the skin.

What’s involved in the treatment? Microdermabrasion with DiamondTome™ does not require any downtime beyond the slight flushing immediately after treatment. However, the newly exposed skin can be more sensitive to light, so you should be especially vigilant about sunscreen use. The course of treatment varies, but many patients get optimal results after six to eight sessions.

Smoothbeam™ Laser

How does it work? One of the most common causes of acne is overactive sebaceous glands (the glands in the skin that produce a natural oil called sebum). Smoothbeam™ laser treatments shrink the sebaceous glands to stop overproduction of sebum.

Who can it help? Smoothbeam™ is typically best for those acne-prone patients who have particularly oily skin. The procedure also comes with some cosmetic benefits, like minimizing facial redness and fine lines.

What’s involved in the treatment? Most Smoothbeam™ acne patients can go right back to their daily activities after their procedure. However, as with all laser treatments, it is crucial to follow the provider’s instructions regarding sun exposure.

VBeam® Perfecta

How does it work? VBeam® Perfecta improves both the appearance of acne and some of the causes of the breakouts themselves. The treatments kill acne-caused bacteria and reduce inflammation of the skin, while also decreasing facial redness to give you an especially clear complexion.

Who can it help? While its ability to kill acne-causing bacteria makes VBeam® Perfecta an effective acne treatment for many patients, those who have facial redness along with their acne (like patients who also have rosacea or facial veins) are often the best candidates.

What’s involved in the treatment? Because the VBeam® Perfecta has customizable settings, every patient’s course of treatment is unique. The laser uses a cooling process to minimize patient discomfort, and while post-treatment sun protection is important, typically no downtime is required and any redness or swelling only lasts a few hours.

Like every skin condition, acne should be examined and treated by a board-certified dermatologist. Every patient’s skin is different, and everyone’s acne is different as well, so the key is for a dermatologist to match you with the best course of treatment for your individual needs, whether that means one of the procedures above, topical or oral prescriptions, or a combination of both. To start taking control of your acne, schedule an appointment at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta. Or, to learn more about the treatments we offer and the latest news in dermatology, join us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.