Acne is an inflammatory disorder of the skin, which has sebaceous (oil) glands that connects to the hair follicle, which contains a fine hair. In healthy skin, the sebaceous glands make sebum that empties onto the skin surface through the pore, which is an opening in the follicle.

Keratinocytes, a type of skin cell, line the follicle. Normally, as the body sheds skin cells, the keratinocytes rise to the surface of the skin. When someone has acne, the hair, sebum, and keratinocytes stick together inside the pore. This prevents the keratinocytes from shedding and keeps the sebum from reaching the surface of the skin. The mixture of oil and cells allows bacteria that normally live on the skin to grow in the plugged follicles and cause inflammation —swelling, redness, heat, and pain. When the wall of the plugged follicle breaks down, it spills the bacteria, skin cells, and sebum into nearby skin, creating lesions or pimples.

For most people, acne tends to go away by the time they reach their thirties, but some people in their forties and fifties continue to have this skin problem.

Who Gets Acne?

People of all races and ages get acne, but it is most common in teens and young adults. When acne appears during the teenage years, it is more common in males. Acne can continue into adulthood, and when it does, it is more common in women.

Types of Acne

Acne causes several types of lesions, or pimples. Doctors refer to enlarged or plugged hair follicles as comedones. Types of acne include:

• Whiteheads: Plugged hair follicles that stay beneath the skin and produce a white bump.
• Blackheads: Plugged follicles that reach the surface of the skin and open up. They look black on the skin surface because the air discolors the sebum, not because they are dirty.
• Papules: Inflamed lesions that usually appear as small, pink bumps on the skin and can be tender to the touch.
• Pustules or pimples: Papules topped by white or yellow pus-filled lesions that may be red at the base.
• Nodules: Large, painful solid lesions that are lodged deep within the skin.
• Severe nodular acne (sometimes called cystic acne): Deep, painful, pus-filled lesions.

The following factors may increase a person’s risk for developing acne:

• Hormones. An increase in androgens, which are male sex hormones, may lead to acne. These increase in both boys and girls normally during puberty and cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge and make more sebum. Hormonal changes related to pregnancy can also cause acne.
• Family history. Researchers believe that you may be more likely to get acne if your parents had acne.
• Medications. Certain medications, such as medications that contain hormones, corticosteroids, and lithium, can cause acne.
• Age. People of all ages can get acne, but it is more common in teens.

Acne Treatment Options

Topical Medications

• Benzoyl peroxide: Kills acne-causing bacteria.
• Salicylic acid: Exfoliates and reduces inflammation.
• Retinoids: Regulate oil production and cell turnover.
• Antibiotics: Reduce bacterial overgrowth.

Oral Medications

• Antibiotics: For moderate to severe acne.
• Hormonal therapy: For women with hormonal imbalances causing acne.
• Isotretinoin: A strong retinoid for severe, resistant acne.

Procedures

• Chemical peels: Exfoliate and remove the top layer of skin.
• Extractions: Manually remove blackheads and whiteheads.
• Laser therapy: Targets acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation.
• Microneedling: Creates tiny punctures in the skin to stimulate collagen production and improve scarring.

Lifestyle Changes

• Cleanse your face regularly: Use a gentle cleanser twice daily.
• Wear sunscreen: Sun damage can aggravate acne.
• Manage stress: Stress can increase oil production and worsen acne.
• Eat a healthy diet: Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and dairy products.

Other Considerations

• Consult a dermatologist: A dermatologist can diagnose your acne and recommend the best treatment options.
• Be patient: Acne treatment can take time to show results.
• Follow instructions carefully: Use medications and follow procedures as directed.
• Avoid over-the-counter products without consulting a doctor: Some products can irritate the skin and worsen acne.

Dr. Muñoz recommends Accutane, also known as isotretinoin. Approved by the FDA in 1982, it is a powerful oral medication used to treat severe acne. It is a retinoid, which means it works by regulating the production of oil in the skin and reducing inflammation.

How Accutane Works

Reduces oil production in the skin, prevents the formation of new acne lesions, and reduces inflammation.

Benefits

• Effective for severe acne that has not responded to other treatments
• Can provide long-term acne clearance
• May improve skin texture and appearance
• Lower risk of scarring compared to other acne treatments

If your acne is not responding to the usual treatments, find out if is right for you! Contact Vista Dermatology today.

The post Types of Acne and Treatment appeared first on Vista Dermatology.

This customized treatment is designed to target pigmentation, acne, and aging. It’s a painless, effective treatment available only through authorized clinicians such as Dr. Muñoz.

Here are some questions you may have about the procedure:

I found a VI Peel product online. Can I buy it and apply it myself?

No! VI Peel is a medical in-office treatment and needs to be applied by a trained VI provider. If you find a VI Peel product for sale online, it is probably through an unauthorized retailer that is not a credible VI Peel source, and therefore may not be safe to use.

What skincare products should I use after getting a VI Peel to maintain my results?

The peel kit comes with a generous size sunscreen, cleanser and moisturizer for you to take home.

Can I get a VI Peel if I have eczema?

VI Peel treatments are typically not recommended for patients with Eczema.

How many peels do I need to start seeing results?

Everyone’s skin is different, and the number of peels needed for desired results varies from person to person, and from skin condition to skin condition. Three to six treatments are usually required for optimum results.

Does the treatment burn?

No. You may experience slight warmness and tingling in the beginning, but this should quickly subside. Besides the warmness and tingling, VI Peel treatments are virtually painless.

It’s my first night after treatment and I’m itchy. What should I do?

It is normal to experience itching on the first night of your VI Peel treatment. You may apply the Post Treatment Repair anti-itch Cream to your skin throughout the night. Avoid scratching!

When can I wear makeup after a VI Peel?

After the VI Peel solution is applied to the skin, no makeup or any topical products can be applied for the first four hours. You can apply makeup after you’ve completed the “Four Hour Post-Treatment” steps.

When can I get my next facial, waxing, etc.?

Most treatments are safe for your skin after four weeks, but we’ll advise you on exact time frames.

When can I shave?

You can shave once the peeling process has completed (About seven days after you receive your VI Peel treatment).

When can I go into the sun?

You want to avoid direct and extreme sun exposure for the first seven days. Make sure you’re applying your VI Derm SPF 50 Sunscreen (provided in your Aftercare Kit) every morning. Also note that lifestyle sun exposure, like running errands, going for a walk, walking your dog, grabbing coffee, and driving, are all fine, provided you are following the usual precautions such as protecting your skin from the sun by wearing SPF and a hat.

Find out if the VI Peel treatment is right for you! Contact us at (210) 698-0500 for a consultation.

Ask us about ToxBooster!

Dr. Muñoz will enhance your VI Peel by treating you with Botox immediately after. Known as ToxBooster, this treatment works together in harmony. VI Peel tales care of the skin conditions that Botox doesn’t address, while Botox does the same!

The post VI Peel FAQ appeared first on Vista Dermatology.

Here are some commonly asked questions about the treatment.

What is Sofwave™?

Starting in our mid-20s, collagen and elastin start to break down, causing our skin to wrinkle. Sofwave is a new, clinically proven, non-invasive approach to rebuilding that essential collagen. Sofwave is FDA cleared for lifting the eyebrow, submental tissue and neck, and for the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.

How does Sofwave work?

Its unique, Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam Technology (SUPERB™) generates heat at the right depth of 1.5mm in the mid-dermis. Additionally, there is an integrated cooling SofCool™ mechanism that protects the uppermost skin layer from burning. The impacted treatment zones stimulate a healing response, called neocollagenesis, which increases and regenerates the collagen in the skin, leading to the reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.

Who is a good candidate for Sofwave?

Those in their 30 and older who have mild to moderate skin aging. The potential patient should have some degree of fine lines and wrinkles.

Can Sofwave replace a surgical procedure?

Sofwave is a great alternative for those who are not ready to take that extra step and undergo plastic surgery.

The results would be more dramatic in a surgical procedure, but there are risks involved, including undergoing anesthesia and the occurrence of scar tissue.

How does Sofwave stimulate the growth of collagen?

Collagen is a natural protein that gives skin its youthfulness by keeping toned. As we age, collagen breaks down, and the result is sagging skin. Sofwave’s SUPERB™ technology generates heat at a depth in the mid-dermis to promote new collagen growth.

How does Sofwave differ from other cosmetic procedures?

Today there are various invasive surgical options designed to treat facial lines and wrinkles, yet, the need for non-invasive aesthetic treatments with proven efficacy, safety, and minimal downtime are still unfulfilled. The more aggressive options can cause damage to the upper skin, which in turn, requires a long healing period and considerable downtime. Also, there is a higher risk of side effects, including discoloration and discomfort.

Sofwave’s unique technology enables the controlled delivery of energy, in terms of amount and location, while protecting the skin surface with an integrated cooling mechanism, without the interruption to your daily routine.

What does the treatment feel like?

As the ultrasound energy is delivered, patients may feel warmness of the skin, which can be resolved by applying a topical anesthetic cream just before the treatment. Following treatment, there are no uncomfortable sensations and there is no need to apply special care to the skin. Patients may resume their daily activities quickly post treatment.

How long does a treatment take?

The treatment itself is fast, taking approximately 30 to 40 minutes for the full face and neck region.

How many treatments will it take?

Most patients only need one. However, some may benefit from an additional treatment, depending on their body’s physiological response to the first treatment.

How long does it take to see results?

Immediate results can be seen as soon as one week following the treatment. However, the collagen regeneration process can sometimes take up to 12 weeks, so patients are expected to see ongoing improvements three months after their treatment.

Looking for a way to get rid of those pesky lines and wrinkles? Find out if Sofwave is right for you! Contact Vista Dermatology today.

The post Sofwave FAQ appeared first on Vista Dermatology.

WHY SHOULD I UNDERGO THIS PROCEDURE?

If you’re exhibiting skin imperfections or progressive signs of aging, the FRAXIS DUO Fractional CO2 Laser treatment is a viable alternative to invasive surgical procedures that typically cost more and involve longer downtimes. Patients who undergo this procedure can expect skin that becomes increasingly smoother, clearer, and more rejuvenated after the treatment. FRAXIS is designed to treat and reduce the appearance of the following:

• Severe signs of sun damage
• Deeper fine lines and wrinkles
• Scarring from acne or surgery
• Skin irregularities like warts and moles
• Enlarged pores
• Age spots
• Uneven skin tone

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

Unlike other laser treatments available, this machine compounds fractional CO2 laser and micro-needling with radiofrequency to create a skin rejuvenation powerhouse.

This treatment is highly effective for a wide variety of applications and can treat multiple skin concerns in one session. With the added benefit of the micro-needle RF, this brand-new technology offers the following benefits:

• Improved skin tone and texture
• Significantly reduced wrinkles
• Firmer, lifted skin
• Pore size reduction
• Smoother, younger-looking skin

HOW IS IT PERFORMED?

The fractional CO2 laser emits fractionated beams of light that create controlled thermal damage that will be healed by the surrounding tissues naturally, while the micro-needles promote more significant improvement by delivering precisely controlled RF energy at different depths of the dermis and encouraging collagen remodeling within the skin.

We will first apply a topical anesthetic on your entire face or specific target areas and wait until it is sufficiently numb. Alternatively, a sedative may also be used, depending on your anesthetic needs and the extent of the treatment.

We will then begin by making several passes on sections of your face or specific target areas with both the fractional laser and micro-needle handpieces. Heat and tingling sensations can be expected as the laser moves across the skin.

Depending on the size of the target areas, the procedure may take anywhere between 15 to 45 minutes. For a full face treatment, it can last up to two hours.

Find out if the FRAXIS DUO Fractional CO2 Laser treatment is right for you. Contact us at (210) 698-0500 for a consultation.

The post Fraxis Duo Fractional CO2 Laser FAQ appeared first on Vista Dermatology.