While most people respond favorably to standard acne treatments, which are topical medications applied directly to the skin, others may need to rely on a medical procedure for help with their complexion. Each procedure offers its own set of benefits, ranging from a reduction in oil production to the elimination of bacteria. If you're suffering from moderate to severe acne, a dermatologist can often recommend a treatment for you.
Light Therapy
The American Academy of Dermatology says that light therapy can help to improve the complexion. With this procedure, waves of light energy are directed over areas of the skin suffering from acne. The light penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the P. acnes bacterium, destroying the pathogen, according to the Mayo Clinic. Once the bacteria are destroyed, inflammation subsides. Several treatments are often necessary for best results.
Laser Therapy
Another dermatological procedure that can improve the appearance of the skin is laser therapy. Much like light therapy, the skin is exposed to waves of energy. But instead of affecting the bacteria, the laser energy damages the sebaceous glands responsible for oil production, decreasing the amount of oil on the skin. With less oil on the skin, the pores are less likely to become clogged with excess oil and dead skin, which can form a soft plug and cause inflammation of the hair follicles.
Heat Therapy
The Mayo Clinic says that a combination of heat and light therapy shows promise in treating acne. This has a twofold effect. The light energy works to destroy the bacteria associated with acne while the heat shrinks the sebaceous glands responsible for oil production. With a reduction in both oil and bacteria, inflammation and infection both subside.
Chemical Peels
Although commonly used to improve the appearance of mature skin, chemical peels can also help to manage acne. A chemical agent is spread on the skin, causing it to peel and creating a controlled wound. As the area heals, new skin forms that lacks the papules, pustules or comedones associated with acne. However, the Mayo Clinic recommends using this dermatological procedure with other acne treatments.
Microdermabrasion
You can also see an improvement in your complexion with microdermabrasion. The skin is abraded with fine, or "micro," particles, which causes new cellular turnover that may help to heal acne lesions. The Mayo Clinic recommends using other acne treatments in conjunction with this procedure. Your dermatologist can prescribe the right medication.
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