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Acne And Rosacea Getting You Down? Laser, Light And Cosmetic Treatments Give Patients A Much-Needed Boost
It is estimated that approximately 50 million people in the United States alone are affected by acne vulgaris, and another 14 million Americans experience the redness, flushing and pronounced blood vessels associated with rosacea. While there are no cures for these persistent skin conditions, dermatologists are broadening their treatment options to include laser, light and cosmetic therapies that are proving effective in managing these conditions and improving patient satisfaction. .
Two Different Peels Both Effective In Treating Acne
Chemical peels using either alpha-hydroxy acid or beta-hydroxy acid are both highly effective in treating mild to moderately severe facial acne, researchers at the Saint Louis University School of Medicine have found the first study to compare the two different types of acid peels as therapies for the skin disorder.
Peels using beta-hydroxy acid (or BHA) had slightly fewer side effects and results that lasted a bit longer than did peels using alpha-hydroxy acid (or AHA), the study found. But overall, both types of treatments were similarly effective in reducing lesions caused by acne vulgaris, the medical term for common facial acne, which affects some 85 percent of all people 12 to 24 years old.
"This is good news for the millions of Americans who suffer from mild to moderately severe facial acne," said Dee Anna Glaser, M.D., vice chair and professor of dermatology at the Saint Louis University School of Medicine.
Adult acne: Is it caused by a hormonal imbalance?
Hormones likely play a role in the development of adult acne. Some adult women experience mild to moderate acne due to hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, menstruation, and stopping and starting birth control pills. But hormones generally are not the root cause of acne. It is true that some people with hormonal imbalances due to diseases such as polycystic ovary syndrome experience more problems with acne. However, the vast majority of those with adult acne have no measurable hormonal imbalance. A number of so-called natural acne treatments promise to "equalize" hormonal imbalances to reduce adult acne breakouts. As dietary supplements, these products are subject to limited regulation by the Food and Drug Administration. So buyer beware. Adult acne can be a distressing and frustrating problem.
Two Different Peels Both Effective in Treating Acne
Chemical peels using either alpha-hydroxy acid or beta-hydroxy acid are both highly effective in treating mild to moderately severe facial acne, researchers at the Saint Louis University School of Medicine have found – the first study to compare the two different types of acid peels as therapies for the skin disorder. .
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