Acne Treatment in Seattle, WA

Nearly everyone experiences acne at some point. Whether you’re part of the 85% who get acne between ages 12 to 24, or you’re in the growing group of adults who struggle with the condition, there are effective treatments that can give you back your clear skin and confidence.

At Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute of Seattle, our passionate team of skincare experts, led by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Steven Greene, regularly treat adolescent and adult acne. As patient-focus providers, our treatment plans are unique to each individual. To find out which advanced options we’d recommend for your skin, book a consultation at 206-402-4797.

What Is the Main Cause of Acne?

It occurs when your follicles become plugged with sebum and dead skin cells. In addition, some people have more active sebaceous glands, which can make skin oily and acne-prone.

Several other factors contribute to acne or make breakouts worse, including:

• Genetics.
• Fluctuating hormones in adolescence or around your menstrual period.
• Emotional stress which increases cortisol and sebaceous gland activity.
• Certain medications like corticosteroids.
• Synthetic or tight clothing that traps moisture and bacteria.
• Wearing sports helmets or other headgear.

It might be challenging to pin down your primary triggers, making it tricky to find a treatment that works. At Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute of Seattle, our providers consider any lifestyle factors that could contribute when creating a personalized treatment plan.

What Are the Best Home Treatments?

Home treatments might be enough to calm your skin if you only get the occasional pimple or small breakout. Using a gentle, alcohol-free cleanser and a lightweight, non-comedogenic SPF moisturizer is a good place to start. In addition, benzoyl peroxide cream can help clear a breakout.

However, your skin doesn’t have to be “bad enough” to seek treatment at a dermatologist. If treating a few pimples or stubborn blackheads makes you more comfortable and confident, it’s worth booking an appointment. A visit with one of our qualified providers could save money you would have otherwise spent on ineffective home treatments.

What Looks Like Acne But Isn’t?

If you have stubborn acne that’s not responsive to treatment, it could be another look-alike condition. For example, rosacea flare-ups look similar to acne vulgaris since they often share the same signs, including redness, bumps, and sensitive skin. Similarly, perioral dermatitis and keratosis pilaris have similar symptoms.

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) can also be mistaken for acne. These deep cysts typically appear in areas of friction like the underarms, groin, or buttocks. Seeking prompt care for HS can prevent scarring or the risk of infection. Seeing a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Greene is the best way to get an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

How Does a Dermatologist Treat It?

Dermatologists use a variety of oral and topical treatments. These include:

• Prescription topical or oral acne-fighting medications.
• HydraFacial® treatments to exfoliate and hydrate the skin while extracting blackheads, whiteheads, and acne.
• Medical facials to treat acne and balance your skin.
• Chemical peels to resurface the skin, unclog pores, and eliminate dead cells.
• Intense pulsed light (IPL) photofacials or laser treatments to decrease acne scars and minimize hyperpigmentation from past breakouts.

Schedule Your Acne Treatment Consultation in Seattle

Whether you struggle with occasional breakouts or deep cystic acne, your complexion can significantly impact your self-esteem. At Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute of Seattle, we love seeing our patients’ progress and hearing about how much more confident they feel with clearer skin. To book your consultation in Seattle, Washington, call 206-402-4797.