Chemical peels are a great way to control current acne breakouts. More specifically, the Jessner peel was designed to deconstruct the topmost layer of the skin, dry out active acne, dislodge blackheads, and unclog pores, which also leads to the removal of actinic keratosis (sunspots). Photodynamic therapy shrinks oil glands, decreases inflammation, kills Propionibacterium acnes (bacteria contributing to acne), and improves discoloration from old acne lesions. IPL treatment and salicylic acid peels can lessen the appearance of pigmentation following acne.
Successful acne treatment consists of a multi-step approach, including short-term treatment (controlling acute inflammation) and long-term prevention. The treatment plan will depend on each case and will be custom-tailored to address the underlying cause of your outbreaks. It is important to identify the underlying cause of your acne in order to develop a comprehensive treatment plan and definitive treatment.
Acne scarring can be addressed once active acne is under control. Combination treatment is usually needed in addition to early, appropriately aggressive intervention.