For many, the confusing path to clearer skin involves a series of complex skincare routines, creams, medication, and (hopefully) the occasional doctor consultation.
For many, the confusing path to clearer skin involves a series of complex skincare routines, creams, medication, and (hopefully) the occasional doctor consultation.
Even with genuine effort, these treatment regimens often don't give adequate or lasting improvement, especially in cases of recurring, persistent, or nodular/cystic acne.
At any stage of these acne management processes, there is a role for modern medical-grade technology to improve results.
Initial topical acne treatments typically include ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, salicylic acid, and mild retinoids.
While these are useful for managing mild cases, they tend to cause dryness or irritation, generally disrupt the natural skin barrier further, and often do not adequately address deeper causes from germs, inflammation, and blockages.
Prescribed antibiotics often provide notable improvement through antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects over weeks to months. However, causing germ resistance and risk for side effects means they are not for long-term use.
Isotretinoin (Roaccutane, Accutane) is a well-established prescription treatment for severe acne, or acne that did not respond to safer options. It is generally effective and produces significant long term clearance in ~8 out of 10 patients.
Isotretinoin however is associated with a wide range of undesirable and dangerous side effects, including dry skin/mouth/nose/eyes, skin rash/flaking/sensitivity, hair thinning, joint/muscle pain, liver/stomach injury, depression, suicidal ideation, and birth defects if pregnant while taking it.
It is also contraindicated in some patients, and acne recurrence after a full treatment course occurs in 2-3 out of 10 patients.
Aerolase Neo Elite represents an evidence-based complement or alternative for acne treatment.
Using a 650-microsecond laser, NeoClear targets multiple factors implicated in acne development, including:
What differentiates this modality is its capacity to deliver energy deeply into the skin with minimal collateral heat, so no numbing required, and no damage to skin.
It is suitable for all skin types, including darker skin that would hyperpigment with older lasers, with minimal discomfort and no downtime.
Aerolase has demonstrated results as a standalone treatment, as well as in conjunction with prescribed medications and isotretinoin.
Patients who are unable to use or dislike medication therapies, or who have not achieved satisfactory results with topical or oral meds, may particularly benefit from Aerolase intervention.
Aerolase treatment is not an immediate solution and requires consistency over 3-6 sessions. (That being said, for many the inflammation immediately improves following the treatment, and continues to settle over the next few days.)
Treatment response varies based on acne severity, skin health, and the patient's lifestyle.
At Sun Health Clinic, our protocol includes a complimentary non-medical consultation to assess suitability, followed by medical consultation and treatment plan.
Aerolase does not replace basic skincare or medical oversight, but can be integrated very well into a broader management plan.
It is a valuable option for patients seeking effective, low-risk alternatives without systemic side effects risk.
Conventional medical wisdom is that acne is a long term skin condition that can be treated effectively in most cases, but does require long term maintenance to keep the skin acne-free with eg 0.5% tretinoin (which also helps with skin texture and scar/pigmentation reduction).
It is important for patients and clinicians to be aware of the limitations that apply to the widely accepted skincare products, the evidenced-based medications, and even to the newer scientifically advanced options such as lasers and PRP. And to date, there is unfortunately no single treatment that works completely for every person.
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