Acne is an inflammation of the hair follicle and its pilosebaceous unit secondary to blockage of the hair follicle opening on the skin. This blockage is due to sebum or dead skin cells. Acne is more common on the face, neck, back, etc. The lesions can be simple eruptions, papules, pustules, nodules, or non-inflammatory comedones or pseudocysts. Open comedones are called blackheads, and closed comedones are called whiteheads.

Everyone experiences acne at some point in their lifetime. It is more common in teenagers but also seen in adolescents and adults. It is more prevalent in females compared to males. Acne can be quite disturbing for individuals suffering from it, often leading to negative self-image, low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.

It is a very common skin condition worldwide; in the USA, almost 50 million people suffer from it. Medical treatment, laser therapy, and a few modifications in day-to-day life can significantly improve acne.

The microorganism responsible for inflammation in acne is Propionibacterium acnes, causing increased sebum production, hypercornification in the duct of the sebaceous gland, and production of porphyrins.

Side Effects of Acne:

• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
• Scarring
• Psychological effects

Causes of Acne:

1. Hormonal Surge: During puberty and young age in both boys and girls.
2. Stress: Mental and physical stress leads to acne in adulthood.
3. Handling Acne Lesions: Repeatedly touching or picking at acne spreads inflammation and activates more acne in surrounding areas.
4. Medications: Anabolic steroids and hormonal treatments can lead to acne eruptions.
5. Diet: High carbohydrate and oily foods contribute to acne outbreaks.

Symptoms of Acne Scars:

Symptoms range from physical discomforts like pain, itching, and redness to psychological effects such as anxiety.

Individuals suffering from acne who have not responded to standard topical and oral medications or who prefer alternative treatments are ideal candidates for acne laser treatments. Candidates include those experiencing:

• Persistent acne lesions
• Acne scarring
• Psychological distress due to acne
• Side effects from traditional acne medications

Acne Laser Treatment Techniques

Standard Treatments:

• Topical Medications: Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, antibiotics, retinoids.
• Oral Medications: Antibiotics, contraceptive pills, spironolactone, isotretinoin.

Lasers Used in Acne Management:

• Erbium
   

  Laser (1540 nm)

• Fractionated Erbium
   

  Laser (1550 nm)

• Q-Switched ND
   

  Laser (1064 nm)

• Diode Laser (1450 nm)
• Pulsed Dye Laser

Mechanism of Action of Erbium Laser (2940 nm) with RecoSMA Technology:

• Targets Propionibacterium acnes: Ablation halts the production of porphyrins.
• Prevents Duct Blockage: Stops excessive cornification in the sebaceous gland duct.
• Reduces Inflammation: Improves microvasculature to lessen inflammation.
• Stimulates Collagen Synthesis: Promotes remodeling and realignment of collagen fibers.

Standard Treatments:

• Topical Medications: Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, antibiotics, retinoids.
• Oral Medications: Antibiotics, contraceptive pills, spironolactone, isotretinoin.

Key Features of RecoSMA Laser:

1. No Local Anesthesia Required: The procedure is painless.
2. Quick Procedure Time: Completed in just a few minutes during office hours.
3. Visible Results: Initial improvements seen within five days, with continued enhancement.
4. Biostimulation: Retriggers collagen synthesis for skin rejuvenation.
5. Irreversible Results: Long-lasting effects without the need for ongoing medication.
6. Eliminates Need for Certain Medications: Avoids potential complications from retinoids, oral contraceptives, and tretinoin, especially in young women of childbearing age.

Aftercare Instructions:

1. Avoid Water Application: Do not apply water to the treated area for 24 hours.
2. Temporary Pigmentation: Light brown pigmentation may appear and typically fades by the fifth day post-treatment.
3. Sunscreen Use: Apply sunscreen for one month after the treatment to protect the skin.
4. Oral Vitamin C: Recommended for one month post-treatment to aid healing.
5. Topical Clindamycin Cream: Apply twice daily for two weeks to prevent infection.
6. Oral Doxycycline 100mg: Take twice a day for two weeks to reduce bacterial activity.

Repeat Sessions:

• Frequency: Sessions are repeated after two weeks.
• Number of Sessions: Most patients with acute acne benefit from an average of two sessions.

By opting for acne laser treatments at Elrevo Clinic, patients can experience significant improvement in acne lesions, reduced scarring, and enhanced skin texture, leading to improved self-esteem and quality of life.