Acne is a common human skin disease that effects most people to some degree during their teen years, and often continues into late adulthood. It is characterized by black heads, inflamed red lesions, and pimples. Acne is caused by excess oil production from the sebaceous gland. This oil called sebum is responsible for lubricating skin and hair follicles. When excess sebum combines with dead skin cells it clogs skin pours: resulting in the formation of inflamed red spots, black heads and pimples. Typically acne occurs on the face, but also can occur on the neck, back, shoulders and trunk.
Treatment for acne depends on the type and severity of the skin lesions. Although acne is usually not a serious health risk, severe acne can be painful and cause scarring. Medical treatment can improve appearance, self esteem, and prevent permanent scarring. Several different dermatology methods are available. Two common methods used here in Rexburg at Fall Creek Skin and Health Clinic are Surgery and Cryospray.
Acne Surgery
Acne Surgery is a process of manually draining and extracting clogged skin pores. Delicate tools such as small scalpels or needles are used to remove the layer of skin inclosing the lesion. Then an extractor can be used to remove the sebum and dead skin. This should not be attempted by patients. Correct training, tools, and sterile environment are essential to successful draining. Improper squeezing and picking can lead to worse infections, deeper scars, and inflamed cysts. Properly done, draining and extracting clogged skin lesions can be very effective treatment method to heal acne lesions and reduce scarring.
Acne Cryospray
Acne Cryospray uses a topical spray application of liquid nitrogen to control active acne as well as reduce and remove superficial lesions. Cryospray is an effective treatment with quick results. It’s ideal for removing some superficial skin lesions, cysts, nodules, and skin tags. These can easily lead to scarring if not treated or treated inadequately. Acne cryospray also encourages new healthy tissue growth beneath the treated skin lesions.