3 Acne Solutions That Work

Many different products claim to clear up your acne and improve your complexion, but not all products or treatments are created equal. If acne is a persistent problem in your life that affects your self-esteem, and you’re tired of trying the “latest and greatest” serums and cleansing systems, you’ve come to the right place.

Here at Specialists in Dermatology, with locations in Tucson and Green Valley, Arizona, the team of board-certified dermatologists recommends three acne solutions that work. Now you can look better, feel better, and improve your skin’s health without the hassle of trying yet another new product — which may or may not deliver outstanding results.

1. Chemical peels help clear up acne and minimize acne scarring

Acne comes from the buildup of excess oil and bacteria on the surface of your skin that clog pores and form pimples. Chemical peels drastically reduce this buildup and help minimize acne breakouts.

It’s important to note that not all chemical peels are effective at treating all types of acne. That’s why it’s a good idea to receive your chemical peel from a dermatologist who understands your skin type, your acne problem, and the best solution to resolve it.

A chemical peel strips away dead skin cells and exfoliates your skin using different types of acid. Your dermatologist at Specialists in Dermatology customizes a chemical peel for your skin tone, type, and specific acne condition for optimal results. Some of the most common types of acid found in chemical peels include:

• Glycolic acid
• Polyhydroxy acid
• Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA)
• Beta hydroxy acid (BHA)
• Salicylic acid
• Amino fruit acid
• Trichloroacetic acid (TCA)

Depending on whether you’re treating an acne breakout or correcting acne scarring, chemical peels are available in three levels:

• Superficial chemical peels: penetrate only the surface layer of skin to help reduce acne breakouts
• Moderate chemical peels: penetrate into the deeper layers of skin to promote collagen production
• Deep peels: penetrate deepest layers of skin to minimize the appearance of acne scars

Dermatologists most often recommend superficial chemical peels tailored to your specific skin type to treat acne. In combination with your daily skin care routine, chemical peels can give your skin the boost it needs to be acne free.

2. Microdermabrasion is safe and effective for acne-prone skin

Microdermabrasion is a noninvasive exfoliation technique that uses gentle suction to remove impurities on the outer layer of your skin. It’s safe and effective for mild acne and acne scars. Microdermabrasion treatments unclog pores and clear blackheads and are safe for all skin types and colors.

Treatments are relatively painless and there’s no downtime. Your skin may appear slightly red after a microdermabrasion appointment and typically feels tighter, but these effects usually subside within a few hours. Your dermatologist customizes a microdermabrasion treatment plan to suit your needs, and may even combine it with gentle, superficial chemical peels for maximum benefit.

One of the advantages of microdermabrasion as an acne treatment is that it’s not just for your face. It’s gentle enough to treat just about any area of your body that’s prone to acne breakouts, such as your back, neck, and chest. Microdermabrasion works well on different types of acne, too, so almost anyone can benefit from the procedure, whether you have pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads.

3. High-quality skin care products make a difference in the recurrence of acne

Once you’ve had microdermabrasion, a chemical peel, or a combination of both, it’s important to use high-quality skin care products to improve your skin health for the long term. Because let’s face it, if you invest in professional acne treatments and go back to using drugstore cleansers, you may be setting yourself up for the vicious cycle of acne breakouts all over again. For some people, over-the-counter products may work, but for those with acne-prone skin, these products may actually make the problem worse.

The experienced team at Specialists in Dermatology recommends medical-grade skin care products based on your individual needs. Obagi® and Topix Pharmaceuticals, Inc. are two of the prescription-level brands your dermatologist may prescribe based on your skin and acne type. These advanced skin care products use some of the purest, natural ingredients that have been formulated to achieve your best complexion and minimize acne breakouts.

If you’ve tried everything, but can’t get rid of acne on your own, or you want to minimize acne scars, it’s time to consult a professional dermatologist. Call one of our convenient offices to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward radiant, acne-free skin.