New Year, New You: Top Treatments to Defeat Acne in 2023

Acne is one of the most frustrating, disheartening conditions because it directly impacts our appearance and, often, our self-esteem. You try not to obsess over your acne scars or let your acne outbreaks frustrate you, but after years of suffering through the same old treatment options, you’ve learned how to cope—if only sometimes.

You’re not alone in your fight against acne. This new year, take the steps you need to finally free yourself from the grip of chronic skin conditions by exploring different treatment options at Pinnacle Dermatology.

What Is Acne?

Acne is an inflammatory skin condition that can affect those of all ages. In the skin, sebaceous oil glands produce sebum, an oil that keeps our skin hydrated through our pores. When dead skin cells clog the opening, the sebum and skin cells are trapped, creating the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. As the wall of the clogged follicle breaks down, pimples appear as the inflammation spreads to the nearby skin.

Acne is typically seen as whiteheads, blackheads, bumps, pimples, pus-filled cysts, and other irritating spots on the skin. These inflamed patches can vary in severity and can be caused by factors like hormones, family history, and medications. Many people notice their acne flares up with stress, irritating skin care products, or environmental irritants.

Top Acne Treatment Solutions

While it can feel like you’ll never be able to treat stubborn acne, the experts at Pinnacle Dermatology can help. Our team can diagnose the cause of your acne and form a treatment plan for flawless, smooth skin. Treatment options depend on the cause and severity of your acne, so remedies may vary between people.

Every person’s skin is unique, and there’s no one size fits all solution, and our skin experts may combine treatments to produce outstanding results. Let’s take a deeper look at the effective acne solutions offered at Pinnacle Dermatology.

Personalized Skin Care Regime

If you’ve only used whatever products you can find on the store shelf, personalized skin care can make a big difference for your skin. Our team can create a unique skin care regime based on your skin type. There are three skin types: dry, oily, and combination. As the names suggest, they are categorized based on how much oil your skin naturally produces. You may need more or less moisturizing products depending on your skin type.

But, no matter your skin type, a dermatologist will recommend a cleanser, toner, and moisturizer. From there, you can add products specifically tailored to your acne. These acne-specific products usually consist of acne creams and lotions designed to unclog your pores. Depending on the remedy’s strength, these topical products can be over the counter or prescription.

Your provider can help you determine your skin type and recommend products that are best for your skin. You should notice improvements in a few weeks after consistently using products from your skin care regime.

Medications

If topical acne treatments aren’t successful, various types of medications can kill acne-causing bacteria and regulate hormone levels. The two most common kinds of oral medication we prescribe at Pinnacle Dermatology include antibiotics and Isotretinoin, also known as Accutane®.

Antibiotics work by killing the bacteria that cause pimples and cysts. Most people notice clearer skin after a few weeks of consistently taking the antibiotics, and the results can be long-lasting. However, some people build up resistance to antibiotic treatment, so your dermatologist may combine oral medication with a topical treatment for optimal results.

Isotretinoin, more commonly known as Accutane, is a retinoid that shrinks oil glands and destroys bacteria in the skin. Results may take longer to be visible compared to antibiotics, but Isotretinoin often provides outstanding results for people who have become resistant to other treatments and those with severe acne.

Photodynamic Blue Light Therapy

Photodynamic blue light therapy has quickly become a popular, effective method for fighting acne in the last few years. The power of light can minimize oil production, kill any bacteria contributing to acne, reduce the appearance of acne scars, and even promote the shedding of cells in the follicle.

Before the light is applied, a photosynthesizing agent is applied to the skin. A 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is used, which makes the skin more sensitive to light. Depending on your treatment plan, the solution may sit on your face for some time, or light treatment may immediately begin after application.

Many people notice improvements after one treatment. However, two to three treatments over a few weeks are needed to produce optimal results, but your provider can provide a personal treatment schedule that’s best for your skin. Photodynamic blue light therapy can be used in conjunction with other treatments, like acne creams, which can speed up results. If you’re interested in combining acne remedies, your dermatologist can curate an acne-curing strategy that’s right for you.

Find an Acne Treatment That’s Right for You

Acne is a frustrating, disheartening condition that can impact our everyday thoughts and feelings. If you’ve suffered from acne for years, it can feel like you’ll never find a solution that works for you. At Pinnacle Dermatology, we are experts in treating acne and can tailor a solution that generates clear skin and self-confidence. Don’t hesitate to achieve clear skin in 2023—contact our team today.

Your Trusted Acne Experts: Pinnacle Dermatology

Proudly serving the Beaufort and Bluffton area, we are your trusted acne experts. With years of experience, our team can provide effective solutions that boost your confidence and improve your quality of life. Call us at 843-524-5550 or contact us online to schedule an appointment today!