What are the most common types of acne?
Acne vulgaris: Acne vulgaris is the most common form of the condition. Acne vulgaris is what most people think of when they think of spots and zits. The clogging of the hair follicles causes unsightly and sometimes painful skin lesions and pimples. Acne vulgaris ranges in degree from mild to severe and, at its most severe, it can cause scarring.
Acne rosacea: Acne rosacea is an inflammation of the face, neck or chest that results in red, bumpy, oily skin. Acne rosacea usually appears in people aged 30 to 60 and is often accompanied by acne vulgaris often beginning as a short-term condition that can become chronic and cause facial scarring if not treated.
Cystic acne: Cystic acne occurs when the infected contents of a pustule or pimple erupts beneath the skin and is one of the most severe forms of acne. The body's natural defenses then try to fight the infection, leading to swelling and pain and often causing facial scarring. While it usually occurs spontaneously, cystic acne can be caused by scratching and picking at pimples.
What role does diet play in acne?
Everyone has there own opinion on this question. The standard thinking is that it doesn’t have any effect at all. There is a kind of acne associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCO) which is a hormonal imbalance. This kind of acne does have some relationship with food/diet. It is best you see your doctor if you think you have PCO.
What is the best way to treat acne?
Blemishes must be treated on an individual basis. Different remedies work for different people. The basis of acne is the comedone which responds best to Vitamin A and it’s derivatives. Inflammatory acne (the angry red zit) responds best to antibiotics (either topically or orally) and benzoyl peroxide. These medications can be prescribed by your family doctor. In addition to prescription treatment, other treatments that can be helpful include the Zeno, retinoic acid peels, Cosmelan peels and Levulan.
What about Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion exfoliates the top layer of skin and removing so that the healthier skin underneath is visible. It is most useful for sun-damaged skin, age spots, reducing acne scars and hyper-pigmented areas. It is also good for general skin health and texture. It should not be used in active acne.
Is it painful?
Microdermabrasion is relatively painless.
How will I look after treatment? Can I go back to work?
Your skin might look a little flushed immediately after treatment but should return to normal in 10-30 minutes.
How many sessions do I need?
To get the most benefit you should count on 6-10 sessions initially, then maintenance of 3-4 times a year.