Acne Treatments

How Acne Treatments Works

Acne treatments are designed to address various aspects of acne-prone skin, targeting issues such as excess oil production, clogged pores, and inflammation. These treatments can include topical solutions containing ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to unclog pores and reduce bacterial growth. 

Additionally, oral medications such as antibiotics or hormonal therapies may be prescribed for more severe cases. Advanced treatments like laser therapy or chemical peels aim to reduce acne scars and promote smoother, clearer skin. The goal of acne treatments is to provide a comprehensive approach, addressing both current breakouts and preventing future ones while improving the overall texture and appearance of the skin.

Oral and topical treatments

Topical Acne Treatments

Topical acne treatments are applied directly to the skin and come in various forms, including creams, gels, lotions, or pads. These treatments often contain active ingredients such as:

• Benzoyl Peroxide: Kills bacteria, reduces inflammation, and helps unclog pores.
• Salicylic Acid: Exfoliates the skin, removing dead cells and preventing clogged pores.
• Retinoids (Retin-A, Tretinoin): Stimulate cell turnover, preventing the formation of new comedones (clogged pores).
• Antibiotics (Clindamycin, Erythromycin): Kill bacteria on the skin's surface and reduce inflammation.

Oral Acne Treatments:

Oral medications are taken by mouth and are often prescribed for more severe or persistent acne. Common oral treatments include:

• Antibiotics (Doxycycline, Minocycline): Kill bacteria and reduce inflammation.
• Oral Contraceptives: For females, hormonal birth control can help regulate hormones and reduce acne.
• Isotretinoin (Accutane): A powerful retinoid used for severe acne that can address oil production, inflammation, and acne lesions.
• Spironolactone: Particularly for females, it can help regulate hormones and reduce acne.

Combination Therapy:

In many cases, a combination of topical and oral treatments may be recommended to address different aspects of acne development. This comprehensive approach helps target bacteria, inflammation, excess oil production, and pore blockage, promoting clearer skin. It's essential to consult with a professional to determine the most suitable combination based on the individual's skin type and the severity of their acne.

Injections

Injections for acne typically involve the use of corticosteroids to target specific, inflamed acne lesions. Here are two common types of injections used for treating acne:

Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroids, such as triamcinolone, are injected directly into individual acne lesions, particularly large and inflamed ones. The corticosteroid helps reduce inflammation by suppressing the immune response in the treated area. This method is effective for quickly reducing the size and redness of a targeted acne lesion. It is commonly employed for cystic acne, nodules, or other severe inflammatory lesions.

Intralesional Steroid Injections

Intralesional steroid injections involve injecting a diluted corticosteroid solution into a broader area of affected skin. These injections are similar to localized corticosteroid injections, but the solution is spread across a wider region. It can be effective for reducing inflammation in a larger treatment area, such as the forehead or cheeks and is suitable for cases where multiple acne lesions are present in a concentrated area.

Agnes RF

AGNES RF is a revolutionary aesthetic technology that utilizes radiofrequency (RF) energy to treat various skin concerns, including acne. Here's how AGNES RF can be used specifically for acne treatment:

• Targeting Sebaceous Glands

  • AGNES RF is designed to target and treat overactive sebaceous glands, which are often a root cause of acne. The RF energy is delivered precisely to the sebaceous glands through micro-insulated needles, creating controlled thermal damage. This process helps regulate sebum production and reduces the size and activity of overactive glands, addressing both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne.

• Sebaceous Gland Ablation

  • AGNES RF can be used to ablate or destroy selected sebaceous glands. The RF energy delivered through the microneedles induces coagulation and necrosis of the targeted sebaceous glands. By selectively targeting problematic glands, AGNES RF helps improve acne lesions and prevent future breakouts.

• Treatment of Cystic Acne and Nodules

  • AGNES RF is particularly effective for treating deep, cystic acne and nodules. The precise delivery of RF energy can penetrate deeper skin layers, making it suitable for addressing more severe forms of acne. It helps shrink cystic lesions, reduce inflammation, and prevent the recurrence of painful nodules.

• Customized Treatment Plans

  • AGNES RF allows for personalized and customizable treatment plans based on the specific needs of each patient. Dermatologists can adjust the depth and intensity of the RF energy based on the type and severity of acne, ensuring tailored and optimal results. Customization ensures that AGNES RF is suitable for various skin types and acne conditions.

AGNES RF represents an innovative approach to acne treatment, offering precision and effectiveness with minimal downtime. Dermatologists can utilize AGNES RF to address both active acne lesions and prevent future breakouts, providing patients with a comprehensive solution for clearer and healthier skin.

Skin Types That Benefit From Acne Treatments

Acne treatments cater to a broad spectrum of individuals, providing solutions for different age groups and skin types facing acne-related challenges. Adolescents and young adults benefit from these treatments as hormonal changes during puberty often lead to increased sebum production, making teenagers more prone to acne breakouts. 

Adults experiencing persistent acne due to factors like hormonal fluctuations, stress, or genetics also find relief through tailored treatments that address active lesions and prevent further outbreaks. Individuals dealing with cystic acne, characterized by deep and painful nodules, benefit from advanced options like AGNES RF, which effectively target inflammation and prevent severe scarring.

Moreover, acne treatments offer solutions for those grappling with acne scarring, helping to improve the skin's appearance and texture. Persistent blackheads and whiteheads, common among some individuals, are effectively addressed through both topical and procedural acne treatments. 

Additionally, these treatments serve as preventative care, supporting individuals in maintaining clear skin and minimizing the risk of future breakouts. For those facing hormonally-induced acne, such as fluctuations during menstrual cycles or menopause, customized treatments can specifically address hormonal factors, providing relief tailored to individual needs. In essence, acne treatments are versatile, offering solutions for diverse skin conditions, ages, and concerns, ranging from managing active breakouts to preventing future acne and improving the appearance of scars.

Acne Treatments in San Francisco, CA

Dr. Fan has extensive experience in a diverse array of aesthetic treatments, particularly in the realm of acne solutions. During your consultation, Dr. Fan conducts a thorough assessment of your unique skin concerns and goals, crafting a tailored treatment plan to address your specific needs. With a commitment to patient safety and satisfaction, Dr. Fan combines his artistic eye, surgical proficiency, and advanced techniques to deliver outstanding and natural-looking results in acne treatment. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Fan today to explore the range of effective acne treatments available and discover how he can enhance your skin's appearance while boosting your confidence.