Fighting With Blemishes?
Acne has the power to rob us of our self-esteem and suffering from irritated and inflamed skin can definitely take its toll. Choosing an appropriate acne treatment makes all the difference in achieving clear skin, and optimal treatment for acne-prone skin requires a patient-by-patient approach. Adults and teens each face different risk factors for acne. While teens are more likely to experience acne due to diet, genetics, and hormones during puberty, adults (especially women) are more likely to develop acne from hormonal fluctuations and stress. Ava MD is committed to designing the best treatment plan to deliver success. When your skin is clear, a sense of well-being and improved self-esteem take place.
Developing Specialized Protocols for Acne
Our protocols are backed by decades of acne research and thousands of patients treated successfully. Dr. Shamban and the Ava MD providers have all invested in research and clinical trials to contribute to developing effective acne treatments.
Our tested protocols can provide relief to many of our patients, leading to improved self-confidence and feeling much more comfortable in their skin.
Mild and Moderate Acne
Mild acne is characterized by primarily whiteheads and blackheads, with only a few papules and pustules. Moderate acne may involve widespread whiteheads, blackheads, papules, and pustules.
When treating mild to moderate acne, the first step is to establish a proper skincare routine. This includes washing your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser, avoiding picking or squeezing pimples, and using non-comedogenic moisturizers and sunscreens. Additionally, over-the-counter treatments such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and alpha-hydroxy acids can effectively reduce inflammation and prevent further breakouts.
Moderate and Severe Acne
Moderate to severe acne is a common skin condition affecting millions worldwide. This level of acne tends to involve large, painful papules, pustules, nodules, or cysts, with or without some scarring. We understand that this type of acne can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, self-esteem, and mental health.
The first step in treating moderate to severe acne is to seek the advice of a dermatologist or healthcare provider. They will assess the severity of the acne and may recommend a combination of treatment options. Topical treatments such as retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and antibiotics can effectively reduce inflammation and prevent further breakouts. Oral medications such as antibiotics, isotretinoin, and hormonal therapy may also be prescribed, depending on the severity of the acne.
Hormonal Acne During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, hormonal changes can cause an increase in oil production, which can lead to acne breakouts. While maintaining a good skincare routine can help manage pregnancy acne, sometimes it requires more intense treatments. Not all acne treatments are safe for use during pregnancy, so Ava MD providers will create a treatment plan that is safe for mother and baby.
Blue light facials use a specific wavelength of light to kill the bacteria that cause acne. This treatment is considered safe during pregnancy since it does not involve the use of any chemicals or drugs. Microdermabrasion, which consists of using a machine to remove dead skin cells that can clog pores, is also safe during pregnancy as long as it is performed by a qualified professional who can modify the treatment for pregnant women.
Glycolic acid peels are another safe option for treating pregnancy acne. Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates the skin and helps unclog pores. However, using a low concentration of glycolic acid is essential since higher concentrations can be dangerous during pregnancy. When necessary, topical antibiotics and prescription-strength azelaic acid can be used to treat pregnancy acne. These treatments are considered safe during pregnancy since they are not absorbed into the bloodstream.
Your skin is in good hands with the Ava MD provider. Based on the type of acne you have, your provider will come up with a treatment plan to start clearing your skin. This plan is split into three phases:
- In-office treatments: We work with you to develop a customized treatment plan. To set you up for success, this plan will be based on your needs and habits. Options may include peels, PDT, and laser treatments like DermaV and Dynamis Pro.
- AM Routine: To best control your acne, Dr. Shamban and the Ava MD specialists will create an AM routine of products and medications that will protect your skin throughout the day, address your acne, and help heal active breakouts.
- PM Routine: Lastly, you will receive a PM routine of products and/or medications to help your skin heal from active breakout. This routine prevents new breakouts and keeps your skin looking and feeling its best.
Acne can be difficult to deal with, but it is treatable. The Ava MD Acne Clinic experts believe everyone deserves to feel comfortable in their own skin. We approach every individual with a treatment plan tailored to their own needs to help them achieve the skin they deserve.
Areas Commonly Affected by Stubborn Acne
Acne can take several forms and affect several areas of the body. Common forms of acne include blackheads, whiteheads, papules and pustules, fungal acne triggered by a fungus called Malassezia yeast, nodules, and cysts that cause scarring. These types of acne can occur anywhere on the body, including:
- Face
- Neck
- Arms
- Chest
- Back
- Buttocks
Talk to your Ava MD provider if you experience painful or persistent acne. We can help you regain confidence in your skin with advanced treatment options to reduce or eliminate breakouts. Our acne specialists will ensure you get a treatment plan that is right for you.
Results From the Ava MD Acne Clinic
Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither is perfect skin. It’s a process that comes in stages, just like pesky pimples. So, while some spots may bid adieu in a jiffy, others may need a few weeks or even months to clear. It may be as simple as a prescription daily facial cleanser or getting a chemical peel to improve mild acne. Teens and adults experiencing more severe acne may also benefit from a laser treatment or light therapy.
The good news is that your Ava MD provider will be there every step of the way.
Booking Your Appointment
Book your appointment with an Ava MD provider at our in-house Acne Clinic. If you are interested in learning more about how our skin care experts can treat your acne, book a session with the experts today! Contact us online or call us at our Beverly Hills office at 310-843-9915 or our Santa Monica office at 310-828-2282.