Acne is a condition commonly associated with adolescence, but the truth is that this skin condition can strike at nearly any time of life. While it most frequently occurs during the teen years, many adults are left wondering why their mature faces are sporting those all too familiar pimples once again. The good news is that adults with acne today have many more effective treatment choices to keep those breakouts at bay.
What is Acne Vulgaris?
Acne vulgaris is the name for the ordinary type of acne that strikes most sufferers. It is distinguished from its counterpart acne rosacea, both in terms of symptoms and in the most effective treatment methods. Acne vulgaris is characterized by pimples and pustules that can appear without warning, often just before a major event or important meeting at work.
Acne vulgaris is not considered a serious medical condition, but it can take an emotional toll on the sufferer, particularly during the adult years when acne isn’t as common of an issue. People dealing with acne often have anxiety and self-esteem issues, which can impact both their personal and professional lives. In addition, acne can lead to long-term scarring, which will stick around long after the breakouts have stopped.
Prevalence in Adults
While it may seem like the majority of acne cases strike during the teen years, research has shown that a significant number of adults suffer from this condition as well. A 2008 study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that acne continues to be a common problem long after the teen years have passed. The problem appears to be more prevalent in adult women than men. In fact, more than 15 percent of women and seven percent of men over the age of 50 may still struggle with acne.
Treatment Options
Professional treatments are an effective way for adults to regain control of their condition and restore a clearer complexion. At Dermacare Laser & Skin Care Clinics, we offer the following options in acne treatments for patients of all ages:
- Facials – professional facials can be effective in controlling oil production and reducing bacteria in the skin that leads to breakouts
- Chemical Peels – some formulations are specifically designed to reduce bacteria and clear up acne-prone skin
- Blue Light Therapy – specifically designed to treat acne vulgaris, this procedure uses blue light to kill the bacteria that leads to acne breakouts
- Levulan & PhotoDynamic Therapy – this treatment combines a special topical agent with light therapy to treat acne below the skin’s surface for dramatic, long-lasting results
We also provide medical-grade skin care products you can use at home to support your professional treatments for the best possible results. Our staff has the knowledge and experience to help you determine which procedures and products will meet your specific needs best, treat your acne without irritating your mature skin, and give you the clearer complexion you are hoping for.
Don’t suffer from adult acne any longer. At Dermacare Laser & Skin Care Clinics, we have the treatments you need to stop acne in its tracks and enjoy smoother, clearer skin. To learn more, contact Dermacare Laser & Skin Care Clinics at one of our two locations: San Diego at 858-943-2443 or Carlsbad at 760-472-5088.