Acne — it’s something most of us have encountered at some point in our lives. It can be annoying as well as embarrassing for patients of all ages and skin types. Acne is the most common skin condition, but the good news is there are various treatment options available depending on your unique skin needs. Acne is usually caused by dead skin cells, excessive oil production, hormonal issues, or bacteria growth within the pores. Dermatology Associates of Atlanta is here to identify the cause of acne and work with you to create an effective, personalized treatment plan for you.

Topical treatments are usually our first line of defense against acne for their ease of use and availability. Some of the most common topical solutions include benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, salicylic acid, and retinoids.  Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are two of most popular ingredients in over-the-counter acne medicines that work to kill bacteria on the skin.  Topical and/or oral antibiotics can help inhibit the growth and/or kill acne-causing bacteria.  Topical retinoids are derived from vitamin A and can treat mild to moderate acne by unclogging pores. Sometimes other prescription drugs can be used with severe cases of acne.

Although these topical treatments are commonly used to treat acne there are other options available to combat your skin concerns. At Dermatology Associates of Atlanta, we offer customized prescription compounds for your specific acne concerns.  Microdermabrasion, Isolaz™ laser treatment, Allumera® photodynamic therapy, and chemical peels can help repair the skin’s surface damage and purify your skin of pore-clogging dead skin cells. We also offer numerous skin care products, including customized prescription compounds, that can help prevent and treat acne.

Before trying any of these treatments it’s important to set up a consultation with a dermatologist to determine your type of acne and the most appropriate treatment. If you are interested in setting up an acne consultation please contact our office today. Stay up-to-date on the latest skin care news by following us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.