The Acne Treatment Center

Acne is a condition that can affect children, teenagers, and adults. Blemishes are formed when the sebaceous glands produce oil that becomes trapped underneath the surface of the skin in pores. This results in the bulging of the follicle wall and the formation of a whitehead. If the pore is not fully plugged and it stays open, bacteria can enter and cause the area to darken, forming a blackhead. This bacteria, known as P acnes, thrives in clogged follicles and can leak into the surrounding tissue, causing cystic pimples. When patients do not treat their acne, they may risk deep, permanent acne scars on the skin.

Approximately 90 percent of adolescents deal with acne, as well as over half of adult women and 25 percent of all adults. Acne is a widespread condition that occurs in both men and women, and is not restricted to one nationality or age group. Almost everyone has experienced some form of acne in their lifetime. Though acne is not a curable condition, it can be treated and controlled with medications, topical solutions, and regular cleansing of the skin.

Acne Scars

After acne has occurred, patients may experience acne scarring. Even after the condition has been treated, these “craters” and depressions in the skin can be unsightly. These deep, permanent scars can be addressed with a number of different treatments, including surgical and non-surgical methods. Patients who visit Dr. Sidhu of Foothill Dermatology Medical Center may learn about the various techniques used to treat active acne blemishes, and reduce and refine acne scars on the face. Below are just a few treatments used to address acne scars.

Dermabrasion

Using a special device that helps in removing the upper layer of the skin, the skin begins to heal. Before treatment, patients may be made comfortable with anesthetics or topical treatments that can “freeze” the skin.

Fractional Resurfacing

Using a special laser treatment, patients can undergo fractional resurfacing. This helps in rejuvenating the skin by removing the damaged, old skin cells while also stimulating the skin’s natural healing process. This increases collagen production, which can replace these cells with fresh, youthful skin. Patients will experience significant results in both texture and tone of their skin after fractional laser resurfacing.

Excision / Punch Replacement Graft

During excision and punch replacement graft, the dermatologist will surgically remove the depressed acne scar and close it with a fine suture. While this may leave a scar on the skin, it will be far less visible than the deep, permanent depression previously there.

Fat Transfer

Using patients’ own fat cells removed from another part of the body, Dr. Sidhu can transfer them to the acne scars to add volume and reduce their appearance. This form of treatment allows patients to rest easy and not worry about allergic reactions, as the cells are taken from their own body.