Do you suffer from acne? Did you know that acne is a very common skin condition affecting over 60 million Americans? Staggering! It most commonly affects people in their teens to 20s-40s. For some people, acne is a nuisance but for others, chronic unrelenting acne can be debilitating, negatively impacting their self-image. This negative self-image can have detrimental consequences in their personal and professional lives.

How Does Acne Develop?

Acne is an inflammatory disorder with multiple causative factors. It is a disorder of the pilosebaceous (hair and oil gland) unit. It involves abnormal keratinization, hormonal stimulation of the sebaceous glands, and follicular inflammation from the Propionibacterium acnes – bacteria that normally resides in the pilosebaceous unit. It is caused by overproduction of androgens, hormones that stimulate the sebaceous glands causing them to enlarge and increase the production of sebum. This increase in oil production, coupled with dead skin cells, results in blockages in the hair follicle and sebaceous glands.

What Are Some Traditional Acne Treatments?

Many acne sufferers have gone through over-the-counter acne products containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. They’ve also tried prescription topical creams, oral antibiotics, and even Accutane. Some have even done painful extractions and harsh chemical peels. Often, these treatments are too harsh, drying out the skin, causing redness and flaking.

Who Are Typical Acne Clients at Beatitude?

Demographically, we have only a handful of teenagers. Our male clients are mostly treating their acne scars. Over 95% of our acne clients are adult women ranging in age from 20s through 40s. Most Beatitude clients have already tried the traditional therapy route and found them to be ineffective, intolerable and/or unsustainable solutions. Many of them do not want to go on Accutane. Some have done Accutane but had only temporary improvement. They understand that there is no cure for acne, but that it can be controlled with treatments we offer such as facials, lasers, and high quality home care products.

After initial series of recommended treatments, many of our acne clients continue to do maintenance facials and/or lasers. They may still break out under stress or during their monthly cycle but their break outs typically much less. Our long time acne clients are also very happy with the improvement in the quality and appearance of their skin as well as anti-aging effects of our acne treatments.

What Acne Treatments Are Offered at Beatitude?

We use the latest aesthetic tools to treat different types of acne/scars in all skin colors from photodynamic therapy, to laser resurfacing with Fraxel DUAL and SkinFinity. All devices work, but Dr. Chang has the experience to customize best treatments for each client. So, it’s good to be an informed consumer, but remember that ultimately, Dr. Chang has the expertise and experience to recommend treatments that are best for you.

Acne Treatments

Initial treatments are determined by the type(s) of acne with which the client presents. For example, if the client has significant cystic acne, photodynamic therapy would be recommended. If the client has more papular acne and scars, resurfacing treatments would be recommended. Some of our clients start with facials and home care products. If they do well, then we’d maintain them on that regimen. Dr. Chang and her staff work with every client to ensure best results and value for them.

How Much Do Acne Treatments Cost?

Starting treatments can range from a single custom facial ($150) to a laser/facial package ($1899). Products can range from $125-$250. During your initial consultation, Dr. Chang can help you get started.

How Do I Get Started?

Call Beatitude at 619-280-1609. When you come in, you’ll fill out a quick medical history form. Then, Dr. Chang will meet with you to discuss your concerns, goals, budget, and lifestyle that can affect your treatment recommendations. The consultation generally takes 5-15 minutes.