ACNE CHEAT SHEET

Acne can be extremely frustrating whether you are a teen or an adult. Acne lesions vary from whiteheads and blackheads to red bumps (papules) to pustules and cysts.

If you suffer from extensive lesions or primarily cystic acne, it’s probably best to see a dermatologist for an evaluation and prescription medication.

But if you have a milder case of acne and want to try some over the counter products or simple in-office procedures first, we wanted to give you some helpful info about some solid products and procedures.

DRUGSTORE FAVORITES: Topical Products for Acne

Differin 0.1% gel - This workhorse for acne is the first over the counter retinoid and can help prevent and clear break outs. Start with a green pea sized amount for the entire face. We recommend using every other night for 2 weeks to start and then going to every night if it doesn’t dry or irritate skin. Pro tip: you can continue to use it every other night if nightly is too much and still see improvements.
Benzoyl Peroxide Cleansers - Find products that have 4% or less (PanOxyl and Cerave are two of our favorites).
Salicylic Acid Cleansers - 2% cleansers are great (Neutrogena Oil Free Acne wash and Cerave Renewing SA cleanser are good).

*Note: These can be drying so start off once a day and increase to twice a day after 2 weeks if your skin feels comfortable.

SKINCARE SUGGESTIONS from our Advanced SkinCare Store

Elta UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46 - Great sunscreen for acne-prone skin, with niacinamide to help reduce inflammation
Revision Pore Purifying Clay Mask - to cleanse, exfoliate and smooth. Purifies and reduces sebum
Elta AM Therapy - if you are cursed with acne and dry skin, this is a good option. Has niacinamide to reduce inflammation and salicylic acid to encourage cell turnover.
SkinCeuticals Blemish and Age - elegant option for those with adult acne
SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser - a mix of alpha and beta-hydroxy acids to gently exfoliate skin and improve texture
Elta Foaming Cleanser - rich, foamy cleanser with gentle enzymes (bromelain from pineapples). Especially good for those with acne and more sensitive or dry skin

SHOP OUR ACNE COLLECTION

IN-OFFICE PROCEDURES offered in our Advanced SkinCare Center

Acne Facials - a very light chemical peel followed by manual extractions of blackheads and whiteheads. Can be done every 3-6 weeks
Chemical Peels - a variety of strengths of chemical peels are available that can be customized. Typically done monthly in a series of four.
HydraFacials - a type of hydra-dermabrasion with deep pore cleansing, hydration and an infusion of antioxidants and peptides. Can be done monthly or as needed
SkinPen Microneedling - wonderful for acne scarring, helps to remodel scar tissue while keeping the overall structure of the skin intact. Typically done in a series of 3-5 depending on the severity of the scars
Vbeam Laser - the gold standard pulsed dye laser that helps treat inflamed acne lesions and post-inflammatory erythema (those flat, pesky red spots that remain after the red bump goes away)

For more information about any of our Acne Cheat Sheet products or procedures just give us a call or stop by our Advanced SkinCare Center! (770) 497 0699 ext 112