Acne Protocol
Guide
Acne Protocol in Manasquan
Acne and the scarring it leaves can truly take a toll on your mental health. You might feel embarrassed or insecure about your appearance, avoid social situations, or keep clear of photo shoots. All of these things can have a big impact on your self-esteem and confidence.
At Simply.Aesthetics, our Acne Protocol is a customized treatment plan designed to address acne scars. We combine microneedling, either traditional or RF, with Ultra Laser treatments. The specific combination and frequency of treatments depend on the severity of your scarring.
Think of it like a tailored skincare routine. We carefully select the best approach to rejuvenate your skin. It’s similar to our popular Total Skin Solution but with a total focus on acne scars.
Picture your skin as a canvas. Microneedling helps to create tiny channels in the skin, encouraging collagen production and stimulating healing. Ultra Laser treatments then target the scars more directly, reducing their appearance. Together, these treatments work synergistically to improve the texture and tone of your skin.
We often incorporate PDO Smooth Threads or Skinvive to complete the Acne Protocol. Threads are tiny, thread-like structures that are inserted into the areas with acne scarring. They restore lost volume and improve your skin’s overall smoothness and texture. Skinvive is a hydration-packed injectable treatment. Both of these procedures give your skin a little support boost to help it bounce back.
How Do Acne Treatments Work?
Microneedling & RF Microneedling
Think of it as a controlled injury. Microneedling treatments like SkinPen create tiny punctures in your skin but don’t worry, it’s not painful! Your body sees these as little wounds and rushes to repair them, producing collagen and elastin. This helps your skin heal itself and look clearer and smoother.
Genius® and Vivace RF microneedling are like microneedling on steroids. The tiny needles create micro-injuries, while the RF energy heats the deeper layers of your skin, stimulating collagen production. It’s a powerful combination for smoother, clearer skin.
LaseMD Ultra™
LaseMD Ultra™ stimulates new growth using laser energy to create tiny channels beneath the skin’s surface. These channels are tiny wounds that trigger your body’s healing response.
Your body then rushes to repair the damage, producing collagen and elastin, two essential proteins that give your skin structure and elasticity. Over time, your skin will become smoother, clearer, and more youthful as old, damaged skin cells are replaced with healthier ones.
During acne protocols, we’re using LaseMD Ultra to treat:
- Acne scars: LaseMD Ultra can help improve the appearance of acne scars by stimulating collagen production and reducing inflammation.
- Enlarged pores: The procedure can help shrink enlarged pores and improve skin texture.
PDO Smooth Threads
Think of them as scaffolding for your skin. PDO smooth threads create a support structure that helps your skin rebuild itself. As they dissolve, they stimulate your skin to produce more collagen, plumping up areas with acne scars and improving your skin’s texture.
SKINVIVE™
SKINVIVE™ by JUVÉDERM® is like a shot of hydration for your skin. It’s packed with hyaluronic acid, a superstar ingredient that attracts and retains moisture. This helps to plump up your skin, reduce the appearance of acne scars, and give your skin a healthy glow.
Are Acne Treatments Right For Me?
Microneedling & RF Microneedling
Tired of dealing with acne, acne scars, or uneven skin tone? Microneedling or RF microneedling might be the answer! These innovative treatments are like a natural reset for your skin. They work wonders on all skin types and tones, improving your complexion and giving you a clearer, brighter glow.
Anyone who wants to rejuvenate their skin and address specific concerns is a good candidate for microneedling. However, if you have certain medical conditions, or active skin infections, or if you’re pregnant or nursing, it’s best to consult with one of our New Jersey skin experts to see if these treatments are right for you.
LaseMD Ultra
LaseMD Ultra is a versatile treatment that can benefit a broad spectrum of people. It’s suitable for all skin types and tones, so no matter your skin’s unique characteristics, Ultra Laser can potentially improve your complexion.
No matter your age, you can experience the benefits of Ultra. If you want to enhance your skincare routine and achieve a more radiant complexion, LaseMD Ultra is a fantastic choice. It can help address a variety of skin concerns and provide long-lasting results.
PDO Smooth Threads
PDO smooth threads can be a great additional treatment for certain acne scars. It’s important to consider a few factors before deciding if they’re right for you:
- Is your skin healthy? If you have active acne, skin infections, or cold sores, it’s best to address those first.
- What kind of scars do you have? PDO threads are better suited for shallow, superficial scars. If you have deep or extensive scarring, you might need a combination of treatments.
- How thick is your skin? Especially fragile or thin skin can sometimes make the threads visible until they heal and dissolve.
- If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have autoimmune diseases or diabetes, PDO threads might not be the best option.
Skinvive
Skinvive is a great option for anyone who wants to give their skin a hydration boost. If your cheeks are feeling dry, rough, or dull, and you’re looking for a brighter, smoother complexion, Skinvive might be the perfect solution.
But who isn’t a good candidate? If you have a history of allergic reactions to hyaluronic acid fillers or lidocaine (the numbing agent in Skinvive), it’s best to avoid this treatment.
When Will I See Results?
We typically schedule these sessions every 4-6 weeks, allowing your skin time to recover and respond to the treatments. Over time, you’ll notice a gradual improvement in the appearance of your acne scars, leaving you with a smoother, more youthful complexion.
How Long Do Results Last?
Microneedling & RF Microneedling
The duration of results can vary significantly from person to person. Factors like age, skin type, lifestyle, and the severity of your skin concerns play a crucial role.
While the initial results may fade over time, the collagen and elastin stimulated by these procedures can provide long-term benefits. Think of it as building a stronger foundation for your skin.
To maintain optimal results, you may need periodic touch-up sessions. Our New Jersey aesthetic professionals can recommend a personalized maintenance schedule based on your individual needs.
LaseMD Ultra
The results of LaseMD Ultra can be long-lasting. With proper skin care and sun protection, you can expect your skin to look refreshed and rejuvenated for several months to over a year.
PDO Smooth Threads
The longevity of PDO thread results can vary depending on factors such as the type of threads used, the treatment technique, and your skin’s natural aging process. While PDO threads are long-lasting, you may still need occasional touch-up treatments to maintain the best results, especially as you age.
Skinvive
Skinvive provides a temporary boost of hydration and can improve the appearance of acne scars. The effects typically last for several months. To maintain the results, many patients opt for regular Skinvive treatments. This can help keep your skin looking hydrated, plump, and youthful.
Aftercare and Healing
Microneedling
After your microneedling treatment, give your skin some TLC:
- Avoid makeup, sun exposure, and strenuous exercise for a few days.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol.
- Use any prescribed creams as directed, and keep your hands clean.
- Sleep on your back to minimize swelling.
- Gently wash your face with cold water a few hours after the procedure.
RF Microneedling
After RF microneedling, it’s important to treat your skin gently:
- Avoid harsh cleansers, exfoliation, and excessive sun exposure.
- Keep your skin moisturized and use sunscreen daily.
- Steer clear of heat, sweat, and makeup for a few days.
- If you have any prescribed medications, let us know.
- To reduce swelling and discomfort, use ice packs and sleep with your head slightly elevated.
- Be patient and avoid touching or picking at the treated area.
LaseMD Ultra
After your LaseMD Ultra treatment, give your skin the time and attention it needs to heal properly:
- For the first few hours, use an ice pack to soothe any burning sensation.
- Gently wash your face, pat it dry daily, and moisturize regularly.
- Protect your skin from the sun with sunscreen and avoid harsh products.
- Take it easy with exercise and alcohol for a week, and skip saunas.
- Avoid other treatments for a couple of weeks to allow your skin to heal.
PDO Smooth Threads
After your PDO threads treatment, give your skin some time to heal:
- Avoid massaging the treated areas for a month, and be gentle when cleansing or applying makeup.
- Skip baths for a week and opt for showers instead.
- Take it easy with strenuous activities and sports for the same period.
- Avoid any treatments that involve heat, radiofrequency, laser, or intense pulsed light for four weeks.
Skinvive
After your Skinvive treatment, be extra careful with your skin:
- To reduce swelling, apply a cold compress for 10-15 minutes several times a day.
- Take it easy with exercise and avoid hot showers or saunas for 24 hours.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoid alcohol or blood thinners.
- Give your skin a break from makeup for 12 hours, and protect it from the sun and heat for a few days.
- Sleep on your back to minimize swelling.
- Gradually reintroduce your skincare routine once your skin has healed.
How to Prepare for Acne Treatments
To get the most out of your microneedling or laser acne procedure, we recommend that you:
- Discontinue blood thinners and anti-inflammatory medications several days before your appointment.
- Avoid topical retinoids, exfoliants, acids, and antibiotics for at least 5-7 days before treatment.
- Limit sun exposure and avoid sunburn for two weeks leading up to your appointment.
- Refrain from shaving, waxing, or using depilatory creams on the treatment area for 5-7 days.
- Limit alcohol consumption during the 24 hours before your appointment and avoid caffeinated beverages on the day of treatment.
- Reduce strenuous physical activity for 24 to 48 hours before your appointment.
- Prioritize a balanced diet rich in whole foods.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Cleanse your face gently with a mild cleanser and remove any makeup, lotion, perfume, or serums on the day of your appointment.
Side Effects & Risks
Microneedling & RF Microneedling
Side Effects: Think of it like a mild sunburn. You might experience redness, swelling, and a little dryness for a few days.
Rare Complications: In rare cases, there’s a risk of infection, bruising, or scarring. It’s like any minor procedure – there’s always a slim chance of a complication.
LaseMD Ultra
Side Effects: LaseMD Ultra is generally safe, but like any procedure, it can come with some temporary side effects. You might notice redness, swelling, and a burning sensation for a few days after treatment. Your skin might also feel dry and rough, or even form a crust. Itching is also common for a few days.
Rare Complications: In some cases, you might experience acne breakouts or even infections. If you have a history of skin conditions like herpes, you might experience a flare-up. For those with darker skin tones, there’s minimal risk of permanent skin color changes.
PDO Smooth Threads
Side Effects: Expect some bruising and swelling for a couple of weeks. You may have a little post-procedure soreness.
Rare Complications: There’s a small risk of infection, especially for those over 50. In rare cases, you might see dimpling or visible threads.
Skinvive
Side Effects: Think of it like a tiny pinprick. You might experience redness, swelling, or a little discomfort.
Rare Complications: While rare, there’s a risk of more serious side effects if the gel accidentally enters a blood vessel. This is why it’s important to choose a qualified injector.
Ready to kiss those pesky acne scars goodbye? Contact our office for your Acne Protocol consultation with the experienced skin professionals at Simply.Aesthetics in Manasquan. Once you start your journey to clear, radiant skin, you’ll be smiling from ear to ear with your dream skin in no time!