There are many options to treat acne at the Aesthetic Clinique.
Sebacia
Sebacia is a newly approved treatment for acne. It is done in a series of 3 weekly treatments. There is mild redness and swelling that should subside in an hour or 2. Studies have shown that there is prolonged control of acne. At 2 years, there was 92% improvement in acne severity scores and 77% were off all acne medications.
Skincare
Every acne patient is placed on a tailored skincare regime. This will always include a tretinoin or retinol. These topicals have been proven to improve acne by leading to exfoliation, skin turnover and decreased sebum production. A cleanser and toner that include a glycolic or salicylic acid is often recommended. Sometimes a topical antibiotic is prescribed as well. Benzyl peroxide is also very effective in treating acne.
Lasers
Aerolase NeoClear – This is a 1064nm 650microsecond laser that is safe for all skin types. This unique pulse duration allows for deeper penetration of the laser without creating more side effects. The laser improves the redness, kills the bacteria, and decreases sebum production. A series of 6 is usually performed 1-2 weeks apart. The Aerolase is often combined with other lasers.
Excel V+ – This laser has both a 532nm and 1064nm wavelength. The 532nm is used to treat active acne very effectively. This is used for spot treatment. The 1064 can be used in a “painting” fashion, and this treatment is labeled “Laser Genesis”. This gently heats the tissues to kill bacteria and decrease the sebum. There is occasional swelling with this laser. It is only safe for skin types 1-4
Spectra/PicoPlus Gold Toning Handpiece – This is a 585nm wavelength and is used to improve the redness and the early acne scar formation. It is a no downtime laser. It is usually a series of 6 treatments and combined with other lasers.
All the lasers above can be performed without topical numbing creams. The treatments take about 10 minutes – even if multiple lasers are used. There is some mild transient redness for 24 hours or less. A series of treatments is required and follow ups are needed after obtaining acne control every 3-6 months.
Genius – RF Microneedling
The Genius has coated microneedles that insert to prescribed depths and deliver energy to the dermis. The result is a coagulation zone in the dermis, which also contains the sebaceous glands (sebum/oil glands). These glands become injured and are partially destroyed. With less oil production, there will be less acne. Eventually, the sebaceous glands will grow back, and further treatments might be needed.
