Acne is a condition that affects nearly everyone. It is most common in the teen years, with more than 90 percent of teenagers affected. Approximately 25 percent of adults suffer from acne breakouts, most often in the facial area, back or shoulders. Given the prevalence of the condition, it is no surprise that a wide selection of spa treatments for acne have become available in today's health and beauty industry.
Facials
Facials can be very effective for mild to moderate cases of noninflammatory acne. Done regularly, many spa facial treatments can reduce the frequency of acne outbreaks. Thorough cleansing is generally the starting point of a spa facial, followed by the application of various products that can exfoliate, remove excess skin oil, clear pores, soothe and hydrate facial skin.
Light Chemical Peels
Light chemical peels are often used in spas to treat mild to moderate cases of acne. These techniques do not actually peel the skin, but promote rapid exfoliation with the use of chemical compounds such as alpha hydroxy, beta hydroxy or glycolic acid. Facials with these ingredients can help remove dead skin cells and clear pores, reducing the potential for acne breakouts.
Laser and Light Treatments
Photo therapy has become a common spa treatment for acne. The use of laser, or focused light, on the skin, kills acne-causing bacteria and shrinks overactive sebaceous glands, producing less skin oil to fuel acne flare-ups. A variety of photo therapy options are available, such as red light and blue light treatments, as well as some that use a combination of both. Photo therapy can be effective treatment for acne ranging from mild to severe.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a skin resurfacing procedure that gently removes the top layer of skin. Using fine abrasive crystals and light suction, microdermabrasion machines remove dead skin cells, which helps to relieve clogged pores and reduce acne breakouts. This treatment is generally painless, with most patients reporting just a mild tingling sensation and minor redness of the skin immediately following the procedure. Microdermabrasion can also reduce the appearance of some types of acne scarring, minor skin discolorations and fine lines.
Comedo Extractions
Comedo, or blackhead, extractions involve the gentle removal of plugs of dead skin cells, sebum (sabaceous gland secretion) and other debris from the pores. Removing the debris that accumulates in common blackheads and whiteheads can help reduce acne breakouts. Comedo extractions are often done during facials or other spa treatments for acne.
Member Comments