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Acne

Bailey C. Lee, MD, FAAD -  - Cosmetic Dermatology

Bailey C. Lee, MD, FAAD

Cosmetic Dermatology & General Dermatology located in Minneapolis, MN

If you suffer from acne, you’re not alone – it’s the most common skin condition in the United States. Reduce its severity and impact by getting treatment from Bailey Lee, MD, FAAD. As a board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Lee provides treatment for acne and acne scars to reduce the number of outbreaks and scarring. People in Maple Grove and Fridley, Minnesota, can call the office or book online for a consultation and learn how to reduce the effects of acne.

Acne Q & A

What causes acne?

Acne results when your pores get clogged with natural oils and dead skin cells. Your body produces sebum, a natural oil, that can cause sloughed-off skin cells to clump together and become trapped. Bacteria enter the pores and creates the resulting redness, pustules, inflammation, and swelling that define acne.

How do I know I need dermatological help for acne?

Adolescents often suffer from acne, but so do adults. Many women in their 30s, 40s, and beyond can experience unpleasant acne due to hormonal changes. Even after breakouts stop, you may have lingering scarring that makes you feel self-conscious. If acne makes you feel self-conscious, you can get treatment from Dr. Lee to keep outbreaks at bay, prevent scarring, and reduce the appearance of scarring that has occurred.

How is acne treated with chemical peels?

Dr. Lee can address scarring and mild outbreaks with chemical peels. The procedure involves the application of chemicals to your skin that causes the outermost layer to slough off, revealing fresh, unblemished skin. Chemical peels also accelerate the production of new skin cells. With chemical peels, you open up your pores so the dead skin cells are less likely to cause the clogs that aggravate acne.

How does laser treatment improve acne?

A variety of laser and light treatments treat pimples, acne cysts, nodules, blackheads, and whiteheads. Lasers can also help reduce the appearance of scarring.

Laser energy warms the deeper layers of your skin to activate collagen remodeling. Collagen is a compound your skin produces to create a smooth, strong structure. The newly made collagen fills in acne scars while the light energy can help decrease oil production and reduce pore size. Ask Dr. Lee if laser treatment is right for your outbreaks and scarring.

What medical treatments are available for acne?

Dr. Lee may offer topical medications, such as retinoids and antibacterial creams that are only available through prescription. If you have active outbreaks, oral antibiotics and Accutane® may also be recommended, especially if you have a moderate-to-severe case.

To learn more about effective treatments for acne outbreaks and scarring, call the office or schedule an appointment online.