Physical Procedures for Treating Acne

A Dermatologist will occasionally use procedures to help clear acne. These methods, which are described below, should be performed by a dermatologist or other health care practitioner. Trying these at home can lead to infection, worsening of the acne and scarring.

Chemical PeelsLight chemical peels of glycolic acid and other chemical agents are used by dermatologists to loosen blackheads and decrease acne papules.

Comedo ExtractionSometimes removing comedones proves beneficial. To extract whiteheads and blackheads, dermatologists use a sterile pen-sized device. This procedure should only be performed by a dermatologist or other medical professional. Patients’ attempts to extract comedones and drain cysts by squeezing or picking, can lead to worsening of the acne, scarring and infection. Tissue injured by squeezing or picking can become infected by staphylococci, streptococci and other bacteria. Continue reading “Physical Procedures for Treating Acne”