Overview | Acne treatments | Expected Outcomes | Self-care | Causes and types | Diagnosis | Looking forward
Acne occurs when hair follicles get clogged with dirt, bacteria, and oil. This leads to pimples or ‘breakouts’, that can occur almost anywhere on the body. We, at The Bombay Skin Clinic, are leading experts in the field of dermatology and have treated thousands of patients affected by this troublesome skin condition. We are here to help you with facts and acne treatment options.
Let’s take a look at the professional acne treatment options at The Bombay Skin Clinic:
Acne Treatment – The Bombay Skin Clinic
At The Bombay Skin Clinic, we employ revolutionary acne treatments like The Acne Freedom Program that have resulted in healthier skin and successful treatment of acne. Our methods of treatment are varied and include everything from chemical peels to laser treatment for acne and skin surgeries. Our patients have benefitted from fantastic results that have not just been quick but also long-lasting.
Listed below are some of the most popular methods of acne treatment for varying severities of the skin condition.
- Microdermabrasion – This non-surgical procedure is used to treat a range of skin problems including pigmentation, blackheads, and acne. In microdermabrasion, the skin specialist uses a small tool to rub fine crystals onto the affected skin with the aim of exfoliating and unearthing the healthier, younger skin underneath. Our patients have seen a significant improvement in their skin appearance after undergoing microdermabrasion. This process truly exfoliates to unveil the soft and supple skin waiting to shine free from scars and spots. With many newer treatments available today, microdermabrasion is usually not recommended as the first line of acne treatment.
- Low-level Laser Light Therapy (LLLT) – Also known as low-level laser light therapy, LLLT is used to treat a variety of skin conditions that require stimulated healing. Stem cells are targeted for improved healing and skin rejuvenation. LLLT is extremely effective in reducing acne and treating inflammation. Patients who opt for LLLT for acne-related skin problems at our clinic are known to benefit immensely from the results. The fact that side effects are close to nil and the treatment is non-invasive makes this an extremely popular and safe pick. LLLT has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
- Acne Freedom Program – Created by Dr Batul Patel herself, our Acne Freedom Program is a seven-step acne treatment process to free you from acne. Beginning with vitamin cleansing, this treatment goes on to tackle acne through an intensive process while keeping the skin hydrated. Cleansing is followed by crystal-free hydradermabrasion that removes dead cells while infusing the skin with water. The next step sees the application of a carbon peel followed treatment with a Q-switched laser that heats the carbon and improves its efficacy. Closed and clogged pores are cleaned and a second gold toning laser helps reduce inflammation. The treatment also includes the use of a Black Peel, which is known to be very effective in tackling acne cysts, and a brightening mask to bring out that fabulous glow.
- Dermapen – The Dermapen is technology at its non-surgical best when it comes to dealing with stubborn acne. Treated with the power of the Dermapen 4, our patients have seen fantastic skin results on areas previously spotted with acne. Also known as microneedling, the Dermapen uses fine needles to gently penetrate the skin at a superficial depth of 0.5mm. Supported with creams containing Azelaic acid or Retinol, microneedling is highly recommended by us at The Bombay Skin Clinic for its efficacy in getting rid of active acne.
- Extraction of acne – Acne extraction is done professionally with the use of hygienic tools to remove pimples. This is more recommended than popping pimples on your own at home, which can lead to further inflammation and scarring. Extraction of acne is the safest way to get rid of recurrent blackheads and whiteheads. It can also be used to remove a large cyst or nodule. Post-extraction, it is important to follow our dermatologist’s advice on proper aftercare methods to ensure the skin recovers well.
- Chemical peels – Chemical peels are known to produce significant results in professional acne treatment. At The Bombay Skin Clinic, our chemical peels include a wide range of options such as Yellow, Black, Salicyclic acid, Azelaic acid, Mandelic acid, Glycolic acid, and Pyruvic peels. Each of these tackles specific acne concerns of our patients incredibly well, giving them clear skin.
Dr Batul herself recommends Black Peel for effective and lasting results in acne treatment. This is a natural and organic peel that is based on black vinegar that comes from black rice. It also contains salicylic acid and jasmonic acid, both of which are noted for their efficacy in treating acne. In just one sitting, the Black Peel relieves you of painful inflammation from acne. There is absolutely no downtime. In fact, the Black Peel is the perfect fix to bid goodbye to any acne before a big party. Our patients at The Bombay Skin Clinic swear by it. - Laser treatments – One of the most effective methods of treating acne, a laser can work like a charm with the efficient handling of a dermatologist. Laser treatment for acne is done through non-ablative laser and Q-switched laser. These laser treatments effectively tackle acne by reducing the sebaceous gland and minimizing acne inflammation. Laser treatment for acne generally targets facial skin. It can be applied to other areas of the body on the recommendation of the dermatologist.
Laser treatment for acne is usually done in conjunction with other acne treatments for the best results. Follow-up sessions are often required; however, the results from laser treatments are long-lasting and, therefore, highly preferred. Patients do need to carefully follow our dermatologist’s advice on post-treatment skincare. - Hydradermabrasion – Using the combined powers of water and oxygen to heal and rejuvenate, this is a popular pick for exfoliation and clearing away dead skin cells. Our patients have reaped fabulous results through crystal-free hydradermabrasion in their acne treatment process. Hydradermabrasion minimizes pores and leaves your skin looking hydrated and healthy. Best of all, here at The Bombay Skin Clinic, the procedure is quick and suited to all skin types. Bid farewell to dull skin and acne as you uncover better and healthier skin with this treatment.
- Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) – Our special Vampire Acne Scar PRP (platelet-rich plasma) treatment makes use of your body’s own blood platelets to rejuvenate your skin through new cell growth and collagen stimulation. PRP contains anti-inflammatory properties that are highly effective in treating active and severe acne.
Since PRP treatment uses your platelets, there is absolutely no risk of an allergy-related side effect. Nor will the treatment be rejected once administered. Moreover, the results in our patients are evident after a single sitting. The Bombay Skin Clinic highly recommends PRP for active acne and all acne-related skin problems. Experience younger, tighter, and brighter skin exclusively with this breakthrough technique that is bound to get heads turning. - SuperJet Facial – Our advanced aesthetic technology impresses with this five-step facial that brings out the very best in your skin. The treatment begins with Vitamin C-rich cleansing and moves to an exfoliation done by a high-speed micro jet spray. This is followed by photodynamic light therapy that stimulates lymphatic circulation and blood flow and improves collagen. An oxygen water spray delivers pulsated oxygen and a special serum with kojic acid, arginine, and Vitamin C to further exfoliate and heal.
The treatment comes to a finish with the use of specially formulated peels and Korean face mask. Indeed, skin care and rejuvenation have never gone deeper than this. Our patients truly swear by the SuperJet Facial and its impactful results for blemish-free, healthy skin.
Expected outcomes after treatment
The outcome of acne treatments can vary between patients and the method of treatment chosen. We advise giving the treatment at least four weeks for complete results. Our dermatologist will let you know what you can expect from your treatment based on your case.
Additionally, acne treatments may have certain side-effects depending on the course of treatment chosen. Common side-effects may include irritation on the treated surface and slight skin dryness. Do communicate any discomfort to your dermatologist immediately.
Acne treatment in children
Treating acne in children involves an initial inspection of the child’s health and the severity of the acne. The doctor also takes the child’s age into consideration. Acne treatment in children aims to heal the skin with minimal to zero remains of any scarring.
Acne treatment for children generally involves the use of topical skin creams and lotions. In certain cases, the patient may be advised to undergo draining of a cyst, laser treatment for acne, or light therapy. Children may also be prescribed oral medicines.
Self-care tips
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, acne can be prevented by avoiding medicines containing lithium and certain corticosteroids. If you are on any such medicines, do inform your dermatologist.
At The Bombay Skin Clinic we recommend you always carry certain essentials for skin care while on the go. These include:
- Facial wipes
- Sheet masks
- Sunscreen
- Facial cleanser
- Skin moisturizer
Armed with these, you can show-off your best skin at work and leisure.
We at The Bombay Skin Clinic do believe that knowledge is power. Here is a quick look at the causes, types, and diagnosis of acne.
Common causes of acne
Any pore in the skin can get clogged with dead skin cells as they are shed. These skin cells often stick together and get trapped due to an excess of sebum, which is the natural oil produced by the skin. In some cases, bacteria known as Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), too, can worsen the infection.
Certain other factors are also known to trigger acne. These include:
- Higher androgen levels (due to the intake of certain medicines)
- Repeat use of greasy or creamy cosmetics
- Menstruation
- Elevated stress levels
A lot of research is being conducted to ascertain the correlation between food and acne. In 2019, the Harvard Medical School stated that it could not categorically link specific foods to acne. However, some studies do show a correlation between acne and high-glycemic loads diets that include white bread and pasta.
Types of acne
Acne is of two main types: non-inflammatory and inflammatory.
Non-inflammatory acne
This type of acne is usually not marked by swelling on the skin surface. The two main sub-types are:
- Blackheads – Marked by a distinctive black color, blackheads form when pores get clogged with dirt, dead skin cells, and oil.
- Whiteheads – Whiteheads are pores that have also been clogged with dirt; however, unlike blackheads, whiteheads close up at the top.
Inflammatory acne
Inflammatory acne can leave the patient with severe scars. The main sub-types are:
- Pustules – Pustules or pimples are inflamed, with a pus-filled center and red base.
- Papules – Papules are bumps that are located under the surface of the skin. They are firm and pink in shade.
- Nodules – Nodules are larger versions of papules and can cause noticeable skin scarring.
- Cysts – Cysts are large and red with a pus-filled center. They are painful.
Who is prone to acne?
Acne can affect anyone. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, even new-born babies can get acne. Yet, there are some who are more prone to it than others. This includes teenagers; patients on certain medications that can trigger bouts of acne; people who are exposed to oil and grease, such as chefs; and people who live a highly stressful life.
Diagnosis of acne
During diagnosis, the dermatologist examines your skin to determine the severity of the acne rash. The level of severity decides the course of acne treatment to be followed. At The Bombay Skin Clinic we take great care to prioritize and personalize each patient’s treatment for the best and most comfortable experience.
Looking forward
At The Bombay Skin Clinic, we want you to have healthy, happy skin days. Acne happens to all of us; however, it does not need to mar your skin permanently. With the latest in biotechnology, we will work with you to heal and treat your skin as per its unique needs.
Walk in for a consultation and treatment at The Bombay Skin Clinic today and walk out with revitalized, clear, and enviable skin.
References
- Harvard Health Publishing: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/acne-what-you-need-to-know-2019010315717
- American Academy of Dermatology: https://www.aad.org/diseases/acne
- Johns Hopkins Medicine: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/acne
