Acne Treatment in Burbank, CA
Acne can cause damage to the skin and unsightly scarring. With the right Medical Skin Care treatment, this can be reversed. While it is true that acne most commonly appears during the teenage years, a large percentage of individuals suffer from adult acne.
What Causes Adult Acne?
It can be caused by several things, one of which is emotional stress. The body can react to stress by increasing the secretions of the skin’s sebaceous glands or by releasing more hormones from the adrenal glands. Oils from the sebaceous glands can block pores, while a greater amount of hormones in the body can create an imbalance — both of which can give rise to acne flare-ups or exacerbate an existing acne condition.
For many adults in Burbank, hormonal fluctuations, changes in medication, or underlying medical conditions can also contribute to ongoing breakouts. Certain cosmetics, hair products, or sunscreens that are not labeled non-comedogenic may clog pores and make acne worse, even if you follow a good cleansing routine. Lifestyle factors such as diet, sleep habits, and environmental exposure can play a role as well, which is why our team takes time during your visit to review your daily routine and identify triggers that may be unique to you.
When you visit our office for acne treatment in Burbank, you will receive a skin evaluation that looks beyond the surface to understand why your acne is persisting. Our providers may ask about your work environment, workout habits, and current skin care products so they can see the full picture of what your skin experiences throughout the week. By combining this information with a detailed exam, we can recommend a customized plan instead of a one-size-fits-all approach that may not address the true cause of your breakouts.
How We Approach Acne Treatment
Our team focuses on creating a step-by-step plan that is realistic for your schedule and skin type, rather than relying on a single product or quick fix. During your initial visit, we review your health history, current medications, and previous treatments so we can understand what has and has not worked for you. This careful intake process allows us to build a plan that you can follow at home while also making use of in-office treatments when they are appropriate.
Acne Scar and Dark Spot Treatment Options
Many people seek care only after acne has left behind scars or dark marks that are difficult to cover with makeup. Our goal is to help soften the look of these marks over time using treatments that are matched to your skin tone and type. During your consultation, we examine the pattern of scarring or discoloration and talk with you about whether your primary concern is texture, color, or both.
Improving scars and dark spots is a gradual process, and we are careful to explain expected timelines so you can make informed decisions. We discuss how many treatment sessions are typically recommended, when you might start to notice changes, and how we will monitor your skin between visits. By setting clear expectations and offering a structured plan, we help you understand the steps involved in treating both active breakouts and their longer-term effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is an Acne Cyst?
Deep, painful pimples, also known as "underground" or acne cysts, can occur when a pore becomes blocked by dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria. These pimples are red, tender, and cannot be popped. Our doctors can inject a diluted cortisone solution into the pimple to reduce inflammation, shrink the bump, and promote resolution within a day or two. This quick procedure is available with any of our doctors.
What Is the Biggest Mistake People Make When Trying to Treat Their Acne at Home?
The most common mistake is over-treating or picking at breakouts. Over-washing, using too many harsh products simultaneously, or squeezing pimples can severely damage the skin barrier, leading to increased irritation, inflammation, and potential scarring.
When Should I Stop Using Over-the-Counter Products and See a Dermatologist?
If you have used over-the-counter products consistently for 4 to 6 weeks without seeing improvement, or if your acne is severe, deep, or painful, it is time to see a doctor.
What Is the Difference Between Treating Active Acne and Treating Acne Scars?
Active acne treatment focuses on clearing existing breakouts and helping to prevent new ones. Acne scar treatment focuses on remodeling collagen and resurfacing the skin.
How Important Is Sunscreen When Undergoing Professional Acne Treatments?
Sunscreen is critical. Many acne medications and in-office treatments make your skin significantly more sensitive to the sun, increasing the risk of burning and hyperpigmentation.