A dermatologist can help you manage your acne and correct the damage that is caused by this common skin condition. Dr. Keith Llewellyn offers treatment for acne and acne scarring for residents of Santa Barbara, Ventura, Solvang, Santa Maria, Santa Ynez, and the surrounding areas of California.
Acne is an inflammatory disease of the sebacous hair follicles that occurs primarily on the face, neck, chest and back. Many people believe that acne has a single cause, such as excess oil, dirt or even eating chocolate (not true). In reality, acne has many causes. Acne starts when a keratin plug blocks the sebaceous hair follicle opening which causes blackheads and white heads. The blocked follicle may then become distended and burst releasing keratin, sebum and bacteria especially Propionibacterium acnes into the dermis. This elicits an inflammatory response causing acne cysts, red bumps and pustules. These larger inflammatory cysts may lead to permanent scarring. Scarring may also be caused by picking and squeezing smaller inflammatory lesions. Acne is further influenced by the action of hormones on the sebaceous glands which leads to increased sebum secretion. Other factors that may influence acne in someone who is predisposed to acne include cosmetics, frictional and mechanical forces.
The cost of your acne treatment is based on a personalized plan that meets the unique needs of your skin. After the consultation, we can discuss pricing, and our payment options include cash and major credit cards. You can learn more on our financing page.
Scars may form when your skin experiences some type of injury, such as the damage that is caused by cystic acne and by the picking or squeezing acne lesions. Scars often do not match the surrounding skin and of cosmetic concern to many acne patients. Dr. Llewellyn offers several treatments to improve the appearance of acne scars.
Acne extraction treatments remove the keratin plugs, dirt, oil, dead skin cells and bacteria that is clogging your pores. It is most often recommended for blackheads and whiteheads, but may be appropriate in other situations. Acne extraction treatment should only be performed by a dermatologist or qualified aesthetician, as performing the technique incorrectly can exacerbate the problem.
Dr. Llewellyn uses advanced techniques for acne treatment and scarring reduction. Your plan of care may include:
Whether you have smaller pimples or larger red cysts, acne is an embarrassing and challenging skin condition at any age. Aloe Dermatology offers acne treatment for men and women in Santa Barbara, Ventura, Solvang, Santa Maria, Santa Ynez, and the surrounding areas of California. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.