Acne Treatment in 535 Miller Ave
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting teens and adults alike, and it can leave lasting marks on both the skin and self-confidence. At Aesthetic Dermatology And Skin Cancer, Inc., we treat acne at every stage with a personalized combination of topical and oral medications, in-office procedures, and advanced light-based therapies such as BLU-U and photodynamic therapy.
What Causes Acne?
Acne develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Bacteria in the follicles trigger inflammation, leading to blackheads, whiteheads, red bumps, pustules, and, in more severe cases, deep, painful cysts. Hormones, genetics, stress, certain medications, and some skin care and hair products can all contribute. Adult acne, especially in women, is increasingly common and often flares around the jawline and chin.
Traditional and Advanced Acne Treatments
Traditionally, acne has been treated with topical medications and oral antibiotics, and these remain important tools. Your treatment plan may include topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, topical or oral antibiotics, hormonal therapies, or other prescription options tailored to your skin and the severity of your acne.
Lasers and light-based devices are playing an ever-increasing role in acne care and offer effective alternatives to traditional treatments:
- BLU-U blue light – a special blue light treatment that reduces the acne-causing bacteria in the follicles. It is an FDA-approved, non-drug treatment for moderate acne that is safe and painless.
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT) – has been shown to provide results similar to oral antibiotics by targeting the oil glands and bacteria that drive breakouts.
Despite evidence of their success, insurance companies consider these light-based treatments cosmetic and do not reimburse for them. Learn more about our lasers and lights.
Benefits depicted are actual and not retouched. Patient results may vary. Each set of photos reflects the benefit realized by the person in that set of photos, and not necessarily the viewers final results.
In-Office Treatments for Clearer Skin
Our licensed aestheticians offer treatments that complement medical care, including the Deep Pore Cleansing Medical Facial with extractions, Beta Lift salicylic acid peels that penetrate and clear pores, and glycolic acid peels to refine texture. These treatments can speed improvement and help keep breakouts under control.
Preventing and Treating Acne Scars
Treating acne early is the best way to prevent permanent scarring. If acne has already left marks, we offer a full range of acne scar treatments, including subcision, microneedling, and Fraxel Restore. Patients with redness and bumps on the cheeks and nose may actually have rosacea, which requires a different approach, so an accurate diagnosis matters. Explore our medical dermatology services.
Acne FAQs
What causes acne?
Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, and bacteria trigger inflammation. Hormones, genetics, stress, and certain products can contribute.
Can adults get acne?
Yes. Adult acne is common, especially in women, and often appears around the jawline and chin.
What is BLU-U light therapy for acne?
BLU-U is a blue light treatment that reduces acne-causing bacteria in the follicles. It is an FDA-approved, non-drug treatment for moderate acne that is safe and painless.
Does photodynamic therapy work for acne?
Yes. Photodynamic therapy has been shown to provide results similar to oral antibiotics for acne.
Are light treatments for acne covered by insurance?
No. Although effective, insurance companies consider light-based acne treatments cosmetic and do not reimburse for them.
How long does it take for acne treatment to work?
Most treatments take six to twelve weeks to show significant improvement, so consistency is important.
Can you treat acne scars?
Yes. Acne scars can be treated with subcision, microneedling, Fraxel Restore, fractional laser resurfacing, and fillers.
Get Clearer, Healthier Skin
Schedule your acne consultation at Aesthetic Dermatology And Skin Cancer, Inc.. Call (415) 383-5475 or request an appointment online today.