Active Acne Treatment in Highland Park, NJ

Symptoms of Active Acne

Acne manifests in various forms, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Recognizing these symptoms early can help prevent complications and scarring.

Common Symptoms:

• Blackheads (open comedones)
• Whiteheads (closed comedones)
• Papules (small, red, inflamed bumps)
• Pustules (pus-filled pimples)
• Cysts (painful, pus-filled lumps under the skin)
• Nodules (large, complex, inflamed lumps deep within the skin)

Severity Levels:

• Mild Acne – Consists mainly of blackheads, whiteheads, and a few inflamed pimples.
• Moderate Acne – Includes more noticeable papules and pustules, with some risk of inflammation spreading.
• Severe Acne – Characterized by numerous deep, painful nodules and cysts, often leading to scarring.

Potential Complications:

• Permanent scarring (atrophic, hypertrophic, or keloid scars)
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots left after acne heals)
• Emotional distress, anxiety, and depression

Causes of Active Acne

Acne is a multifactorial condition influenced by genetic, hormonal, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Understanding these triggers can help in effective prevention and treatment.

Common Causes:

• Excess Sebum Production – Overproduction of oil by sebaceous glands can clog pores.
• Bacterial Growth (P. acnes) – Cutibacterium acnes bacteria triggers inflammation.
• Clogged Hair Follicles – Accumulation of dead skin cells leads to blockage and acne formation.
• Hormonal Imbalances – Androgen hormones increase oil production, often worsening acne during puberty, pregnancy, or menstrual cycles.

Risk Factors:

• Genetics – A family history of acne can increase susceptibility.
• Diet – High-glycemic foods and dairy products may trigger breakouts in some individuals.
• Stress – Elevated stress levels can increase hormone production, leading to flare-ups.
• Medications – Certain drugs, including corticosteroids and hormonal medications, can contribute to acne.
• Environmental Factors – Exposure to pollutants and humid climates can worsen acne.

Medical Conditions That May Contribute to Acne:

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
• Hormonal disorders
• Chronic inflammatory conditions

Treatment Options for Active Acne in Highland Park, NJ

Managing active acne requires a personalized approach, combining medical and lifestyle interventions. At The Park Med Spa in Highland Park, NJ, various advanced acne treatments are available to help patients achieve clearer skin.

Non-Invasive & Medical Treatments:

Topical Treatments

• Retinoids (adapalene, tretinoin) to unclog pores and promote cell turnover.
• Benzoyl peroxide to reduce bacteria and inflammation.
• Salicylic acid exfoliates and clears blocked follicles.
• Topical antibiotics to control bacterial growth.

Oral Medications

• Antibiotics (doxycycline, minocycline) for moderate to severe acne.
• Hormonal therapy (birth control pills, spironolactone) for hormonal acne.
• Isotretinoin (Accutane) is used for severe cystic acne and is resistant to other treatments.

Advanced Aesthetic Treatments Available at The Park Med Spa:

• Chemical Peels – Exfoliate dead skin cells and reduce acne lesions.
• Laser and Light Therapy – Kills acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation.
• Microneedling with PRP – Stimulates collagen production and reduces acne scars.
• HydraFacial for Acne-Prone Skin – Cleanses pores, removes impurities and hydrates the skin.

Recovery and Expected Results:

• Improvement in acne can take 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the treatment approach.
• Consistency with skincare and prescribed treatments enhances results.
• Long-term maintenance may involve skincare modifications and follow-up treatments.

Lifestyle Modifications for Acne Prevention:

• Use non-comedogenic skincare and makeup products.
• Maintain a balanced diet, reducing high-glycemic foods and dairy.
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques and exercise.
• Keep hands and hair away from the face to prevent bacterial transfer.