There are many myths about acne including the ways it is caused, where it can appear on the body and who is most affected by this very common skin condition. Growing up, we always heard that acne only affects teenagers, but now as adults, we wonder why these blemishes have stuck with us through our 20s, 30s, 40s and beyond.

The fact is that anyone at any age can suffer from acne, and it can look different from one person to the next. Blemishes can appear in the form of blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules (pimples), cysts or nodules on the face, neck, back, buttocks and chest. While the precise cause of acne is still being studied, we know that puberty, hormonal changes, certain foods and family history can lead to breakouts. Many people believe that the only way to get rid of acne is to let it run its course. But with the effective treatments available today, that is not the best idea because if left untreated, acne can cause dark spots and permanent scars. While topical treatments such as over-the-counter washes and creams can control some people’s breakouts, others have to seek medical help for more stubborn or severe cases.

The Lupo Center offers a variety of acne treatments from face and body washes and topical medication to oral prescriptions. We also offer two unique laser treatments for acne patients – CoolTouch and Isolaz.  Visit our website to learn more about the causes and treatment for acne or read below to learn more about CoolTouch and Isolaz.

Acne is an inflammatory, relapsing skin condition that appears when the skin’s pore becomes clogged with dead skin cells, environmental debris or certain cosmetics. The impacted pores form bacteria that thrive and become swollen and inflamed, and sometimes fill with infection. If the pore is ruptured in the process (or from picking and squeezing), discoloration and scarring can occur. Two laser treatments that help eliminate acne and acne scars are the Isolaz and CoolTouch.

Isolaz is the world’s first aesthetic technology that combines a vacuum with a broadband light to deliver an effective acne treatment. Pores are cleansed with a vacuum that helps loosen and extract dirt, blackheads and excess oil from deep within your pores. The broadband light helps destroy acne causing bacteria, as well as reduces facial redness.

Isolaz is a quick, easy and painless way to treat acne. In fact, many people have their treatments done during lunch without any downtime. Patients have found their skin feels refreshed and has a healthy, radiant glow following an Isolaz treatment. Also, Isolaz is effective on all skin types.

The CoolTouch laser energy is applied in gentle pulses over the treatment area. The energy penetrates deep enough to shrink oil glands and decrease their capacity to produce acne without affecting the oils necessary for healthy skin. The laser’s heat also gently stimulates the dermal tissue, which triggers a repair mechanism, and your body begins to rebuild and replenish your own natural collagen without injury to the skin’s surface. As new collagen is produced, acne scars begin to disappear and your skin begins to look and feel softer and smoother.

CoolTouch treatments are long lasting and safe for all skin types, included tanned and dark skinned patients. Treatments take 10-30 minutes and patients can return to normal activity immediately after.

If you or a loved one suffers from acne breakouts, schedule a consultation with one of our doctors to determine which treatment option(s) will be most effective for your condition.