Different Treatments for Acne

Different Treatments for Acne

If you suffer from acne, you know the discomfort, insecurity and even pain that can come with chronic cysts and blemishes. While everyone experiences the occasional breakout, acne that doesn't abate or respond to drugstore creams and solutions can be frustrating and distressing.

Those with severe acne may require professional intervention to effectively treat their blemishes and prevent them from coming back. At Choice Dermatology, with locations in Basking Ridge and Union, we offer several options for treating acne, and can help you find a solution that fits the needs of your skin.

Topical treatments

The most commonly used acne treatments are applied to the surface of the skin, penetrating the surface to reduce oiliness, kill bacteria and clear pores. These treatments usually come in cream, ointment or liquid form and contain powerful ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or retinol. Your dermatologist Dr. Marc Meulener can prescribe you a topical treatment with a higher percentage of these powerful ingredients than are available in over-the-counter versions.

Oral treatments

Medications are another method for treating acne. Taken orally, medications can help with cystic acne or especially red and swollen blemishing. Your dermatologist may prescribe antibiotics to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria, or a medication that regulates hormone levels, like birth control, for females who experience flare-ups during certain stages of their menstrual cycle.

Isotretinoin, commonly known as Accutane, is another option, which uses a vitamin A derivative to treat nodular acne.

In-office treatments

Acne that doesn't respond to oral or topical medications may require treatments done in our Basking Ridge or Union offices. Light or laser therapy can be effective in killing the bacteria that causes acne, and those with blackheads may benefit from chemical peels. The chemicals used in-office are stronger and more effective than those found in drugstore pads or masks designed for acne-prone skin. We also offer acne facials done by a licensed aesthetician for the removal of blackheads a thorough cleaning of the skin.

For large cysts, your dermatologist may carefully extract the blemish after draining the fluid, relieving pain and reducing the chance of scarring your skin. To quickly diminish a large pimple, your dermatologist may offer a cortisone injection.

The specialists at Choice Dermatology are here to help you effectively treat your acne so feel and look great. Call our Basking Ridge, NJ office at 908-766-7546 or our Union, NJ office at 908-355-0112 today to make an appointment.