Acne is one of the most common of all skin problems.  Acne problems are commonly faced by teens but many women are suprised to see acne breakouts in their late 20’s, 30’s, 40’s, and even 50’s.  There are several treatments for both active acne and acne scars.

A combination of treatments can greatly reduce the amount and severity of acne in many cases.

The first visit to Iowa Plastic Surgery Ponds Medi Spa, the patient receives a consultation with our licensed Aesthetician Bobbi and a computerized skin analysis.  The treatments for acne and acne scarring consist of microdermabrasions, glycolic peels, Cool Touch®, Gentle Waves, and a daily skin care regimen.  Based on age, severity of the acne and acne scarring, we will work together with the patient to determine the best option in controlling the acne condition and the steps to prevent future breakouts with out dryness and irritation.  We offer various acne products that have been proven to improve the skin, absorb sebum, and suppress inflammation.  In conjunction with skincare products, there are additional treatments for more severe conditions of acne, such as in-office procedures offered by Dr. Van Raalte.  He will examine your scars, skin and face to discuss with you which procedure best suits your individual needs.  Treatments for active adult acne include antibiotics, retin-A cream, birth control pills (they can be prescribed to you by your gynecologist), skin care products and treatments, and laser treatments.  Each helps in its own way.

We offer Cool Touch® laser treatments.  The laser causes heating underneath the skin, which kills the acne causing bacteria that live in the skin.  Patients undergoing a series of treatments report a decrease in acne breakouts.  The Cool Touch® is usually combined with microdermabrasion treatments and also offers no downtime.

Acne scars can be treated by a variety of modalities, each one improve the acne scars mildly to moderately.  There is no one magic wand type treatment.  The Cool Touch® laser mentioned above may also help acne scarring.  The heating process affects the collagen by causing the collagen to be reformed and may lead to reduction in scarring.  The deepest pit type scar may benefit by excision and closure.

Fillers such as Hydrelle™, Restylane®, or Juvederm® are used to elevate depressed areas of acne scarring also.

Deeper peels such as a TCA peel also will smooth the skin.  TCA peels do have a one to two week recovery.  Other treatments such as laser dermabrasion may help scars, but have a longer recovery, and a prolonged discoloration, so they are reserved for special cases.  Dermabrasion may also help selected cases of moderate scarring, but does have significant down time.

A facelift may benefit those with acne scarring and skin laxity, and the resulting tightening diminishes the appearance of the scars.

If you would like more information or help to find you a regimen that will work for you

please call 322-8877 or email Christina.