At 512skincare, we offer the most effective acne treatments in Austin. Our deep pore cleansing Signature Acne Facial is designed to reduce inflammation and bacteria in blemish-prone skin. Our acne facial includes an enzyme exfoliation, facial extractions, and a healing mask to calm irritated skin. This treatment ends with a calming skin gel and sun protection. Our treatments are tailored differently for men, women, and teens suffering from mild to moderate acne.
Acne is a common condition that causes clogged pores, pimples, cysts, and other lesions on the skin of the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders, and upper arms. People of any age can suffer from acne, which can lead to physical distress and self-confidence issues. We use several effective treatment methods that improve the skin’s appearance and prevent future breakouts.
Causes of Acne
Acne develops when pores become clogged, either from an overproduction of oil, a buildup of bacteria, or a shedding of dead skin cells. When oil, bacteria, or dead skin cells build up in the hair follicle, they form a soft plug that forces the follicle wall to bulge and protrude from the skin, causing a lesion. The cause of excess oil production is unknown, but is believed to involve a combination of several factors, including hormones, bacteria, heredity, and, in some cases, the use of certain medications. Many inflammatory skin conditions, including acne, rosacea, and eczema, have been linked to gut microbes. Although it is unlikely that gut health is the sole cause of acne, it could be a contributor.
A professional skin analysis and following a home care routine that is specific to your current skin health will get you moving in the right path to healthy, blemish-free skin.
Symptoms of Acne
Although it can appear anywhere, acne typically appears on the face, neck, shoulders, back, or chest. Symptoms of acne may include the following:
- Blackheads
- Whiteheads
- Cysts
- Nodules
- Pustules
- Redness
- Swelling
These symptoms can come and go, and may flare up at certain times as a result of hormonal or environmental triggers such as pregnancy, menstrual periods, high levels of humidity, using oily cosmetics or hair products, and taking certain medications. Severe cases of acne may cause scarring, which can have a damaging emotional effect on the sufferer. There are many different ingredients that can help with acne so it’s important to discuss your concerns with someone who specializes in corrective skincare. Prescriptions should be used in patients who don’t respond to professional treatments and a quality home care routine.
Acne Treatments
Topical Treatments
In addition to the Signature Acne Facial, we recommend certain topical products to treat acne. Over-the-counter creams and ointments, which are used to treat mild to moderate forms of acne, may contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or lactic acid as their active ingredient.
Oral Prescription Medications
Moderate to severe cases of acne can often be treated with prescription oral antibiotics, which reduce bacteria and inflammation, and are usually combined with topical treatments. Isotretinoin may be prescribed for severe cases of acne that do not respond to other treatment methods.
Scar Treatment
Certain procedures may be recommended to help reduce scarring caused by acne and post-inflammatory pigment. These include: microneedling, chemical peels, laser treatments and dermaplaning. Many patients experience great results from these types of treatments once free of breakouts. Each of these treatments help to smooth the skin and diminish the scars created by acne.
Each patient is different, and how the skin heals and responds to treatments can vary depending on age, current skin health, post-care, and lifestyle choices.
Preventing Acne
Although acne cannot always be prevented, there are certain ways to reduce the risk of breakouts. They include the following:
- Avoiding heavy or oily cosmetics
- Removing makeup before going to bed
- Using a cleanser two times per day
- Using an antibacterial serum to combat bacteria
- Avoiding sun exposure and wearing a physical sunscreen that is specific to acne-prone skin
- Avoiding constant touching of the skin
It is important to avoid picking or squeezing blemishes as it can lead to post-inflammatory pigment, scarring, and redness.