Six Facts You Need To Know Before Considering Acne Treatment

Acne is a common skin disorder that affects both men and women. It is often thought of as a teenager’s problem because it starts around the onset of puberty; however, adults can be plagued with acne too. If you’ve tried over-the-counter products but are still plagued by acne, you may be considering laser acne treatment. Before you decide if this is the right or wrong procedure for you, these six facts can help.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. There is no cure for acne but you can prevent it.As of yet, scientists have not found a cure for acne. They know it is caused by excess oil production, dead skin cells, clogged pores and bacteria, but they have not found a full solution to this epidermal problem. Still, acne is preventable, especially if you use laser treatments. The lasers can be combined with other treatments, such as topical creams for optimal prevention.
2. There are two types of acne out there.When it comes to acne, there are two major types that people find on their skin: comedonal and inflammatory. Comedonal acne is the mildest form of acne and occurs when the oil blocks the pores and old skin cells. Inflammatory acne is more severe and happens when the blackhead or whitehead that is formed from the comedonal acne becomes inflamed.
3. Acne laser treatments kill bacteria.The way laser acne treatments work is by burning away oil producing glands and follicular sacs. When these glands and sacs are burned, oxygen is forced into the acne, causing bacteria, thus killing them. The less bacteria you have on and in your skin, the less acne you’ll have.
4. Laser treatments are more effective for plain old zits.Research has shown that laser acne treatment is more effective at treating papules and pustules that are plain old zits. Although non-inflammatory acne, like whiteheads and blackheads, and severe lesions like cysts and nodules can be treated with this method, the lasers are less punishing against them. That doesn’t mean that if you are prone to cysts and blackheads that laser treatment won’t work for you.
5. It’s okay to zap your face with lasers.When you hear the word laser, you may think of Darth Vader or some other evil entity using laser power to annihilate the good guys, but that’s not what’ll happen to your face. The lasers used in your acne treatment are government-approved and completely safe.
6. This treatment can take months, but when you see results you’ll be happy.Laser acne treatment requires trips to the doctor. Each treatment is done at monthly intervals and the severity of your acne will depend on how often you will need to have the treatment done. Some people are able to see results in as little as three months while others take longer. However, when you do see results you’ll be amazed at how amazing and acne-free your skin is.