Topical Treatments for Acne in Thornton

There are a number of ways to effectively treat acne topically. As mentioned previously, acne is caused by an overproduction of oily sebum together with excess dead skin cells clogging your pores. All of this is made worse when the P. acnes bacteria are trapped within the pores leading to additional infection and inflammation. To effectively treat acne, topical treatments must target several causal factors.

One of the most popular, widely used, and effective chemicals used to treat acne topically is benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide clears your skin by killing the bacteria that inflame acne, reducing general inflammation, as well as unclogging pores.

Benzoyl peroxide has antibacterial properties that target P. acnes bacteria leading to bacterial death. The peroxide portion of the molecule slowly releases localized pure oxygen (O2) which is a strong oxidizing agent. While on the skin the pure oxygen creates an environment that is toxic to these bacteria, effectively killing them. 

Acne is often accompanied by redness and swelling due to inflammation. This inflammation is caused when the immune system responds to an overabundance of bacteria in the pores. This response stimulates the production of a type of white blood cells. These cells, and their by-products, are what cause the swelling, warmth, and redness you see on the surface of your skin. Benzoyl peroxide penetrates the skin and blocks the production of some of these inflammatory cells thereby calming the immune response that causes redness and swelling. 

To unclog pores, benzoyl peroxide causes exfoliation (removal of dead skin cells) and keratolysis (breaking down keratin to help dissolve dead skin for cellular removal).  This helps remove excess oil, dead skin cells, and other debris that can accumulate and block the pores. These actions unclog pores and prevent new acne breakouts while allowing existing blemishes to heal faster. 

Another widely used and effective means of treating acne are chemical peels. Chemical peels are targeted exfoliating solutions. The chemicals used in these peels generally fall into a class of compounds called hydroxy acids. Hydroxy acids are derived from various natural sources, such as sugarcane, fruit, and willow bark. They include alpha, beta, and poly hydroxy acids (AHAs, BHAs and PHAs). AHAs and BHAs will be our focus for acne treatments. They help exfoliate the skin to unclog pores, decrease oil production, and reduce inflammation. These acids are used in various concentrations, from very mild in products that you might use at home every day, to much stronger professional-use strengths that can cause significant skin peeling.

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid derived from willow bark that penetrates the skin and helps to exfoliate dead skin cells. It has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to unclog pores by dissolving the debris and sebum that can contribute to acne. Salicylic acid peels are particularly beneficial for individuals with oily, and acne-prone skin and non-inflammatory acne. 

Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid derived from sugarcane. It exfoliates the skin by lysing the bonds between dead skin cells, helping to unclog pores and reduce acne breakouts. Glycolic acid also stimulates collagen production, improving the overall texture and appearance of the skin. 

Lactic acid is another AHA that helps to exfoliate the skin and promote cell turnover. It is milder than glycolic acid and is suitable for individuals with sensitive skin. Lactic acid is also hydrating which can be very beneficial as many acne treatments can dry out your skin. Lactic acid peels will help to reduce acne breakouts, fade acne scars, and improve skin tone and texture. 

Mandelic acid is an AHA derived from bitter almonds. It has antibacterial properties and helps to kill acne-causing bacteria on the skin. Mandelic acid also exfoliates the skin by breaking the bonds that hold dead skin cells to the surface of the skin. Mandelic acid is a large molecule, which means it penetrates the skin more slowly than other AHAs. This is beneficial for sensitive skin as it is usually well tolerated. Mandelic acid has been shown to be as effective as salicylic acid with far fewer instances of irritation or sensitivity, making it ideal for acne-prone skin of all types.

Azelaic acid is part of a group of naturally occurring acids called dicarboxylic acids that are typically derived from grains like wheat and barley. Its mechanisms of action in acne treatment are two-fold: It will reduce the causes of acne like bacteria and inflammation, and it is also a potent tyrosinase inhibitor. This molecule reduces pigment production and decreases the likelihood of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that acne can leave behind. These are the red or purple marks on your skin where a breakout has healed. Azelaic acid targets the source of this hyperpigmentation in order to decrease the formation of dark spots and has an overall calming effect on your skin.

Another popular topical treatment is niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3. While not necessarily an effective acne treatment on its own, niacinamide has many benefits when used in combination with other topical acne treatments. Niacinamide reduces a number of inflammatory cytokines, thus calming the skin and reducing inflammation. It also provides strength and support to your skin’s barrier, the protective layer of your skin. When your barrier is compromised oil production can go overboard and inflammation ramps up as well. By supporting the skin barrier, niacinamide helps keep excess oil production under control and inflammation to a minimum. Niacinamide also helps treat and prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation by decreasing the amount of melanin (pigment) that is deposited in new cells that are being made as acne lesions are healing.

Zinc oxide is an essential compound that aids the body’s immune system by helping to fight germs and heal wounds, making it a good pick for acne lesions. Zinc has both antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and can also help regulate sebum production. This is one of the reasons that we love mineral sunscreens that contain zinc for acne-prone skin.

Mastering the mechanisms of topical acne treatments are complex lessons in both chemistry and biology. At Amplify Aesthetics we treat acne in Thornton by making certain our aestheticians understand each treatment at the molecular level to to be able to accurately design a customized treatment plan for you. There is no “one size fits all” in acne treatments. Each person with acne prone skin is different, so schedule a consultation now in our Thornton facility to have our acne experts look at your skin and recommend a treatment plan just right for you.

What Causes Acne?

The exact reason one person can struggle with severe acne, while another has clear skin is not completely understood. However, acne is assumed to have a genetic component. Anyone who experiences acne is described as having “acne prone” skin. Many factors contribute to blemish formation or breakouts, so it is imperative that our acne specialists are well-versed in all these factors so they can provide the acne treatment that is best suited to your individual skin needs. Let’s take a look at the five factors that play a role in acne: Excess oil production, hormones, bacteria, inflammation, and environmental factors.

Acne begins with excess oil production. The sebaceous glands in the skin are connected to pores or follicles and their purpose is to produce an oily substance called sebum. Sebum has several purposes including lubricating and protecting the skin as well as helping to remove dead skin cells from the pore. This is part of the natural process our skin undergoes every day as new cells are produced, and old ones are shed. When there is an overproduction of sebum, it can mix with an overabundance of dead skin cells and clog the hair follicles. It is thought that acne prone skin sheds up to 5x more dead skin cells each day than non-acne prone skin. This is more than the skin can keep up with and leads to the formation of comedones (blackheads or whiteheads).

Hormonal fluctuations, especially during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause, or with hormonal disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can trigger acne. Fluctuations in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone lead to an increase in the production of sebum and can also cause skin cells to shed more rapidly, leading to an increase in clogged pores. 

Bacterial growth in the clogged pores creates additional problems, and results in a type of acne called inflamed acne. Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is a type of bacteria that naturally resides on the skin. If these bacteria get trapped in a clogged pore they begin to multiply. This leads to localized infection and inflammation within the follicle and eventually can lead to larger lesions and discomfort.    

Inflammation from the P. acnes infection brings a systemic immune response like any infection. When bacteria multiply, the immune system responds by releasing white blood cells to fight the infection which causes additional inflammation. This inflammation can lead to additional redness, swelling, and the formation of painful, pus-filled papules and pustules. 

Environmental factors can worsen acne, contribute to clogged pores, and trigger breakouts. These include exposure to pollutants, irritants, common household chemicals, fragrances, lotions, and creams, just to name a few. They are not the cause of acne, but they can make acne prone skin more susceptible to flare ups.  Minimizing or eliminating environmental factors can reduce the severity of flare ups, however this doesn’t get rid of the acne as it isn’t treating the root cause.

Successful acne treatments in our Thornton spa is a multi-faceted approach and our acne experts have extensive knowledge and experience in providing acne treatments. At Amplify Aesthetics, we offer an individual approach to your acne treatment program in Thornton that results in a very high probability (>95%) of achieving clear skin. In our next blog we will discuss topical treatments and how they work.

A History of Acne Treatments

Acne is an age-old and common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by the presence of whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, and sometimes cysts on the face, back, chest, and shoulders. In my previous blog we talked about the negative impacts acne can have on a person both physically as well as emotionally. As you might expect, treating acne is not a new phenomenon.

Throughout history, people have searched for effective treatments for acne. The earliest records of acne treatments can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. These civilizations used various natural remedies to combat acne. For example, the Egyptians used a mixture of honey and milk to treat acne, while the Greeks and Romans used a combination of sulfur and lead to create topical ointments. Clearly there was little known about the cause for the breakout and the Egyptians seemed to be trying to make the skin healthy (with milk and honey) while the Greeks and Romans wanted to poison something unhealthy (with sulfur and lead) in the blemish.

In the Middle Ages, acne was considered a result of impure blood or demonic possession. As a result, treatments focused on blood purification and exorcism. Bloodletting, a practice that involves removing blood from the body, was a common treatment for acne during this time. Other remedies included herbal concoctions and religious rituals.

During the Renaissance period, advancements in medical knowledge led to a more scientific approach to treating acne. Italian physician Giovanni Battista Morgagni proposed that acne was caused by the overproduction of sebum, a natural oil produced by the skin. This theory laid the foundation for future treatments targeting sebum production.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, sulfur became a popular treatment for acne. It was believed to have antibacterial properties and was used in various forms, including soaps, creams, and ointments. However, sulfur treatments often had unpleasant side effects such as skin irritation and a strong odor.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, advancements in chemistry led to the development of new acne treatments. Benzoyl peroxide, a compound with antibacterial and exfoliating properties, was discovered in the early 20th century. It became widely used in over-the-counter acne treatments and is still a common ingredient in many acne products today.

In the mid-20th century, the introduction of antibiotics revolutionized the treatment of acne. Oral antibiotics such as tetracycline and erythromycin were prescribed to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria associated with acne. These medications were effective for many patients, but their long-term use was often associated with antibiotic resistance and other side effects such as light and sun sensitivity.

In the 1980s, a breakthrough in acne treatment occurred with the introduction of isotretinoin, commercially known as Accutane. Isotretinoin is a derivative of vitamin A and is highly effective in treating severe acne. It works by reducing sebum production, preventing the formation of comedones (clogged pores), and decreasing inflammation. However, isotretinoin also has potentially serious side effects, including birth defects and mental health issues, leading to strict regulations and monitoring for its use.

More recently, technology has contributed to the development of new acne treatments. Laser therapy, photodynamic therapy, and light-based treatments are being used to target acne-causing bacteria, reduce sebum production as well as to calm inflammation. These treatments show promise in providing effective results with minimal side effects. We will go into each type of acne treatment we do in Thornton at or spa. Acne treatments in Thornton are coming of age! .

Let’s Talk About Acne

Acne is the most common skin condition, with over 50 million people impacted in the United States alone. While it is not typically a serious medical condition; acne can be physically uncomfortable and emotionally distressing. This can affect every aspect of life. 

At Amplify Aesthetics we understand that acne impacts people every day. Our acne specialists focus on acne treatment because we believe that by using proven and effective treatment protocols, we have the opportunity to change lives! When we treat acne, we are by your side every step of the way. Here are a few of the reasons acne can be challenging to deal with. 

Appearance: Acne can be unsightly, with red, inflamed bumps and pimples on the face, chest, and back. It can make people feel self-conscious and embarrassed, affecting their self-esteem and confidence.  

Pain and scarring: Acne can be painful, especially if the lesions are large and inflamed. This can make it difficult to sleep or to engage in physical activities. In severe cases, acne can leave scars on the skin, which can be permanent. This can further impact a person's self-esteem and confidence. 

Infection: Acne can become infected, leading to more serious skin problems. This is more likely to occur if the acne is picked or squeezed, and this can perpetuate the cycle of breakouts. 

Duration: Acne can last for years, and in some cases, it can persist into adulthood. This can make it difficult for people to form relationships, pursue careers, or enjoy social activities.  

Depression and anxiety: Acne can be stressful, and it can trigger feelings of depression and anxiety. The emotional toll of acne can be particularly severe for teenagers, who are already dealing with the stress of adolescence. 

Negative body image: Acne can contribute to a negative body image. People may feel that their appearance is unattractive or that they are not good enough.  

Social isolation: People with acne may avoid social situations because they are self-conscious about their skin. This can lead to social isolation and feelings of loneliness. Acne can also have an impact on romantic relationships, making it difficult for a person to feel confident and attractive to their partner.  

All of these reasons and more are why we have a comprehensive set of acne treatments that we customize just for you. We created the Acne Academy—a program exclusively for our acne clients. Our acne specialists meet with you to understand your unique situation and develop a science-based approach that is specific to your type and severity of acne and budget. Schedule your free Acne Academy consult today and be on the path to a future with clear skin.

A Novel Procedure Combining Two Therapies ; Botox and Chemical Peels in Thornton

November 10th, 2022

Skincare has a wide range of treatment options from very mild to very wild.  So how do you choose what is right for you? First begin with the desired outcome. For example, if you want to look like Cher, you may need to consult a plastic surgeon.  However, if you are looking to reduce wrinkles, improve pigmentation and skin tone in one 60-minute appointment read on.

In a recent clinical study administered by Wendy Roberts MD, FAAD and Nancy Miller RN, MBA, they report on a combined procedure where a VI chemical peel was performed immediately followed by Botox treatment.  The entire procedure was completed in under 60 minutes.  No adverse reactions were reported, indicating it is safe to combine these two procedures. Not only that, the study also showed improved outcomes when the procedures were combined compared to being stand-alone treatments.

The purpose of the combination treatment is to 1) reduce wrinkles, 2) improve pigmentation, and 3) brighten skin tone.  A diverse group of 30 patients ranging from 30- 70 years old were included in the study. On average wrinkles were reduced by 60%, uniformity of pigment improved by 59% and skin tone improvement was 70%.  All of these results are based upon objective Roberts Skin Type Classification.  In addition to the objective measures, patients were given questionnaires to subjectively rate their satisfaction seven days and thirty days post procedure.

For reduction of wrinkles, on average, the subject group baseline was 1.46 on the Wrinkle Severity Scale indicating Mild to Moderate wrinkles. On Day 7, the average rating dropped to 0.92 indicating a 37% improvement and overall Mild Wrinkles. On Day 30, the average rating continued declining to 0.59 indicating an additional improvement of 36% and overall grading of No Wrinkles. Overall scale improvement averages showed improvement at 60% and scale improvement from 1.46 to 0.59 over 30 days.

Regarding uniformity of pigment, on average, the subject group baseline was 2.27 on the Uniformity of Pigment Scale indicating Moderate Pigment irregularities. On Day 7, the average rating dropped to 1.42 indicating a 37% improvement and overall Mild Pigment Irregularity was noted. On Day 30, the average rating continued declining to 0.92 indicating an additional improvement of 5% and overall grading of Uniform Pigment. Overall scale improvement averages showed improvement at 59% and scale improvements from 2.27 to 0.92 over 30 days.

As to skin tone improvement, on average, the subject group baseline was 2.35 on the Skin Tone Scale indicating Moderate to Severe Irregularities. On Day 7, the average rating dropped to 1.04 indicating a 56% improvement and an overall drop to Clear and Radiant. On Day 30, the average rating continued declining to 0.71 indicating an additional improvement of 32% and maintenance at the Clear and Radiant grade. Overall scale improvement averages showed improvement at 70% and scale improvements from 2.35 to 0.71 over 30 days.

The subjects of the study were each asked if they would be likely to repeat the treatment and if they felt that their skin looked better post treatment.  Ninety Six percent (96%) of respondents said they were likely to repeat the treatment and 100% felt their skin looked better after the VI Peel + Botox.  Further, it was agreed that while results were remarkable at 7 days, the improvements continued through day 30.

One very interesting element of the study that was that 60% of the subjects enrolled identified as having Skin of Color.  This can carry a higher risk of developing Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) after a chemical peel and there were zero (0) incidence of this occurring.  This combination treatment, called ToxBooster™ is reported to be a safe and very effective treatment for rapid and noticeably obvious results. At Amplify Aesthetics in Thornton we combine Botox and VI Peels to create amazing results.