Acne Treatments
HELPING YOU LIVE LIFE MORE BEAUTIFULLYHeadingAt Erickson Cosmetic Dermatology, we understand how frustrating acne breakouts can be and the importance of effective treatment to prevent acne scarring. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Quenby Erickson is a leading provider of acne treatments in Chicago, offering patient-tailored care and advanced dermatological solutions to help patients find relief from breakouts and achieve clearer, healthier skin.
What Is Acne?
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It can appear as blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, cysts, or nodules, most often affecting the face, chest, back, and shoulders. Acne is most common in teenagers, but it can persist or develop in adults. If left untreated, acne can cause permanent scarring and skin discoloration.
What Causes Acne?
Acne is caused by a combination of factors, including excess oil production, clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, diet, and certain medications can also contribute to acne breakouts. Identifying the underlying cause of your acne is key to finding the most effective treatment plan.
What Are the Best Treatments for Acne?
At Erickson Cosmetic Dermatology, we offer an extensive selection of acne treatment options, so we can safely and effectively meet the needs of each unique patient. After assessing your skin and reviewing your medical history, Dr. Erickson will determine the optimal care strategy for treating your acne. Your personalized treatment plan may include one or more of the following acne treatments:
- AviClear®: The first FDA-cleared laser treatment for mild to severe acne, AviClear® targets sebaceous glands to reduce oil production and prevent future breakouts.
- Forever Clear BBL®: This powerful broadband light treatment destroys acne-causing bacteria, reduces inflammation, and promotes skin healing.
- ClearSilk®: This non-ablative laser treatment reduces inflammation, helping patients achieve clearer skin.
- HydraFacial®: This gentle yet effective facial treatment deeply cleanses and exfoliates the skin to clear clogged pores.
- Chemical Peels: Chemical peels remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve skin tone and texture, helping to minimize acne breakouts and scars.
- Medical-Grade Skin Care: Incorporating high-quality skincare products specifically designed to regulate oil production, reduce inflammation, and promote clear skin can help prevent acne breakouts.
- Prescription Topicals: Topically applied prescription medications like Retin-A Micro, as well as Aczone® and Winlevi®, help regulate cell turnover and reduce inflammation.
- Oral Medications: Spironolactone, isotretinoin (Accutane®), and antibiotics may be prescribed for severe or persistent acne that does not respond to topical treatments.
How Much Will My Acne Treatment Cost?
The cost of your acne treatment will depend on the type of treatment, the severity of your acne, and the number of sessions required. During your consultation, Dr. Erickson will evaluate your skin and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Complete pricing details will then be reviewed with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best treatment for hormonal acne?
Hormonal acne is often best treated with a combination of oral medications like spironolactone, isotretinoin (Accutane®), and prescription topicals like Retin-A Micro or Winlevi®. Additionally, laser treatments such as AviClear® can be beneficial to help regulate oil production and prevent breakouts.
How long does it take to see results from acne treatments?
The timeframe for visible results varies by treatment. With topical and oral medications, it may take 4-8 weeks to see improvement, while treatments like AviClear® or Forever Clear BBL® may produce noticeable changes in a few sessions. Dr. Erickson will answer any questions you may have about a realistic results timeline during your consultation.
How can I get rid of acne scars?
Dr. Erickson can reduce the appearance of acne scars with laser treatments, Sofwave®, chemical peels, RF microneedling, and injectables like Bellafill® and Skinvive™ scar treatment for you will depend on the type and severity of your scars.
learn moreSchedule a Consultation
If you are ready to take action against acne and reclaim a clear, beautiful complexion, contact Erickson Cosmetic Dermatology today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Erickson. Erickson Cosmetic Dermatology is conveniently located on the Mag Mile in Chicago to serve patients from throughout the city and from nearby Madison and Milwaukee.