Over-the-counter acne products and a consistent skincare routine can help keep acne breakouts at bay, but if you have inflamed skin and persistent acne problems, a more intensive treatment may be necessary. Skincare products that only reach the surface of the skin cannot change the skin’s behavior from inside out; you may be able to shrink pores and reduce inflammation temporarily, but the problem lies deeper within the skin’s surface.  

Fortunately, there are several innovative skincare treatments and cosmetic surgery procedures that can help treat acne and improve the skin’s texture overall. Dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons are making use of light-energy to kill bacteria under the skin, applying targeted lasers to the face to break down problem skin areas, and using chemical peels to help the skin become healthier and more resilient. 

If you’re frustrated with acne products that are only making your skin more sensitive, consider any of these cosmetic surgery treatments to get your acne under control:  

Photofacials  

Photofacials help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, even out the skin tone and improve the complexion. However, they are also effective at decreasing the rate of acne breakouts and tightening up the pores. By combining red and blue light energy waves, photofacials help rejuvenate and repair damaged skin so that acne breakouts are much less frequent. Over time, the skin also becomes stronger, more resilient and less vulnerable to blemishes and acne breakouts. Brandeis Medical Center reports a 75-95% improvement rate after a set of treatments, and a 50% improvement rate in redness and rosacea immediately after treatment. (Source: Brandeis Medical Center)  

Laser Skin Resurfacing  

Laser skin resurfacing is commonly used for reducing blemishes and getting rid of acne scars. If you have just finished a ‘breakout’ cycle and want your skin to look clearer and healthier, a laser skin resurfacing treatment can help remove the top layer of skin and stimulate collagen production deep within the skin’s surface. This is a fairly intensive procedure, but produces remarkable results for anyone who wants to rejuvenate the skin and restore its natural glow.  

Chemical Peels  

AHA peels, TCA peels and Phenol peels are commonly used to treat different types of acne, and your dermatologist can create a series of skin treatments to help balance out your skin and improve its texture and response to different products. Chemical peels work from the inside out, as they slowly sink into the skin’s layers and injure the skin tissues. This creates a reaction where the skin is forced to regenerate and repair itself. A series of treatments then results in a clearer complexion, reduces inflammation in the skin and helps you achieve a fresher, more youthful look.  

Microdermabrasion  

Microdermabrasion offers indirect benefits for acne sufferers, and is often used in conjunction with a chemical peel. In most cases, microdermabrasion can be used after inflammation is reduced as it works as a deep exfoliating treatment. Microdermabrasion helps buff away dead skin cells on the top layer of skin, reduces the appearance of scars, and makes it easier for skin cells to grow back in a healthy way.  

After acne breakouts subside, you can also take advantage of acne scar removal treatments to improve the overall texture and tone of your skin. Acne scar removal procedures help to buff away dead skin cells, reduce the appearance of scars and help the skin cells regenerate naturally.   

Learn more about acne treatments and acne scar removal in our information guide, or consult with a cosmetic surgeon in your area to find out which acne treatment plan is best for you.