Acne is an inflammatory skin condition that affects people of all ages. Dermatologists are doctors who study and train for years in the different techniques used to treat acne. While there are many different ways to manage acne, dermatologists have their go-to methods for acne treatment, often using a combination of several techniques to produce the best results for their patients.
Acne treatments nowadays are more affordable and highly accessible. Let’s talk about a dermatologist’s most effective treatments for acne and where in Miami and Coral Gables you can go to receive them.
Patient Education
Dermatologists can help patients choose the right treatment for their individual needs. In addition to medication and procedures, dermatologists also recommend lifestyle changes that may help reduce breakouts. These include avoiding acne triggers such as excessive sun exposure, stress, certain cosmetics or greasy hair products, practicing good skin care habits such as gentle cleansing and not over-cleansing, exfoliating regularly and how not to overdo it, and using non-comedogenic oils, sunscreen, and moisturizers.
Patients’ diets can also make acne worse. Some foods that have been linked to causing or worsening acne include sugary foods, dairy products, greasy or fatty foods, and processed carbohydrates. Foods that are high in fiber and low in sugar are generally considered good for the skin. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can also help promote clear skin. In addition to following a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water throughout the day can also help keep your skin hydrated and free from blemishes.
Medication
The most effective medications dermatologists prescribe for acne are retinoids, antibiotics, and isotretinoin. Retinoids are a class of drugs that include tretinoin (brand names Retin-A, Avita, Renova), adapalene (brand name Differin), and tazarotene (brand name Tazorac). These drugs work by increasing cell turnover and preventing the formation of comedones (clogged pores). Antibiotics such as clindamycin (brand name Cleocin) or erythromycin (brand names Ery-Tab, Erycette) work by killing the bacteria that contribute to acne. Isotretinoin (Amnesteem and Claravis) works by reducing the production of oil in the skin, which can help reduce the number of pimples that form.
Acne Surgery
Acne surgery is a type of treatment for acne that can help patients with severe or resistant acne. The goal of acne surgery is to remove the blockages in the pores that are causing the acne and to reduce inflammation. Acne surgery can be performed as an outpatient procedure and usually takes less than an hour. There are several types of procedures that can be used, including comedone extraction, which involves gently squeezing out the contents of clogged pores. Whiteheads and blackheads are all forms of acne that need to be extracted.
Intralesional Corticosteroid Injections
Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory drugs that can be injected directly into an acne cyst to reduce the size and redness of the pimple.
Glycolic Peels
Glycolic peels are alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) peels that help patient with acne by exfoliating the skin and removing dead skin cells. This helps to unclog pores and prevent new breakouts from occurring. Glycolic peels also stimulate collagen production, which can help to improve the overall appearance of the skin. Glycolic peels are so mild, that they can be used on teenage skin.
Beta Lift Peels
Beta lift peels are a type of salicylic acid-based chemical peel that can be used to treat acne. The beta hydroxy acids penetrate deep into the skin (more than AHAs) for deep exfoliation and removal of dead skin cells, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Beta lift peels also help to reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne and minimize pores.
Microdermabrasion
The procedure involves using a handheld device to gently sand the skin, which removes dead skin cells and excess oils, which helps to unclog pores. This can lead to a reduction in breakouts and improved overall skin health.
Acne Treatment in Miami and Coral Gables, FL
At Children’s Skin Center, our team performs a range of procedures that are among the most effective treatments for acne. Our board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Ana M. Duarte, is one of the very few dermatologists in Miami and Coral Gables who can treat both adult and pediatric patients and restore skin to its clearest and smoothest state.
Dr. Duarte and the rest of the team can take care of all your skin concerns. To schedule an appointment for acne treatment, call or text our office today at (305) 669-6555.
