Introducing . . . The Acne KlearUp System
The Acne KlearUp System is designed to provide all the necessary ingredients to combat acne successfully.
Dr.Lopo Recommends
| Step | Product |
| Cleanser | Acne KlearUp Cleanser |
| Toner/Astringent | Acne KlearUp Astringent |
| Exfoliator | Acne KlearUp Exfoliating Creme |
| Masque | Acne KlearUp Masque |
| Lightening Agents | In Office Only – by prescription |
| Moisturizer | Acne KlearUp Blemish Banishing Gel – use as a spot treatment during the day; B-day Moisturizer if desired |
| Sunscreen | EltaMD SPF 40, 41, 45 |
What is Acne?
Acne is a skin condition found in over 85% of teenagers and young adults. Acne is caused in large part because of the hormonal changes taking place at puberty. Several hormones are associated with acne in both young men and women, including testosterone.
Oil from skin glands combines with dead skin cells to block hair follicles (even where you can’t see hair!). Oil continues to be produced, forming a plug and providing a place for bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes to grow. The infection that develops makes the skin swell and redden, forming a pimple. The face, chest, back, and upper arms are the most common places for acne to happen.
Types of Acne.
There are three kinds of acne. Mild: whiteheads and blackheads, no bacterial involvement; Moderate: pimples with pus. Bacteria and inflammation present; scarring develops. Severe: cystic nodules. Bacteria, inflammation, disfiguring scars; hyperpigmentation.
What can trigger/worsen acne?
There is a lot of controversy about this. Important factors include Family history, hormones, and (surprise) diet.
Hormonal activity, such as menstrual cycles and puberty. During puberty, an increase in male sex hormones called androgens cause the follicular glands to get larger and make more sebum.
1Diet and Acne
Recent studies have shown an association between high sugar load foods (high glycemic index) that overload the blood with glucose. . High sugar also increases the level of testosterone in the blood (in both males and females), again contributing to the development of acne.
2Poor Hygiene
Although acne is not caused by dirt, keeping your skin clean is important. Washing with an appropriate cleanser and using an exfoliating treatment is key in improving skin turnover.
3PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome)
High levels of insulin and acne are also both features of polycystic ovarian syndrome. Girls with PCOS tend to have severe acne. (e.g.,lithium,, barbiturates, or androgens)
4Genetics (thanks, Mom and Dad!)
Often, acne will run in families. In these cases, there is often more severe acne.
5Inflammation
Skin irritation or scratching will trigger inflammation, setting up the scenario for acne.
6Stress
Through increased output of hormones from the adrenal (stress) glands.
7Body-building steroids.
Steroids have effects similar to testosterone.
8Some medications
(e.g.,lithium,, barbiturates, or androgens)
9Illicit drugs
Amphetamines cocaine.
Acne Treatments
There are many effective treatments for acne. The best treatments include prescription and non-prescription medications and other treatments such as a good cleanser, exfoliation, blemish treatment gels, light treatments, peels, and lasers.
Generally speaking, successful treatments usually take a period of approximately three months to show significant improvement. So, the key to improvement is patience and persistence. Often two or three products may be prescribed, with each one targeting a different aspect of the acne causes. All should be used exactly as instructed.
Topical medications
such as Retin-A®, Clarity™, Tazorac® , Differin®, and others are very effective. These creams are all Vitamin A derivatives. In young women, acne can be helped with hormone treatments such as the birth control pill.
Oral Medications
Low dose Spironolactone is especially useful in young women. Accutane® is a last resort oral medication. Although brand Accutane® is no longer manufactured, there are generic brands available.
Antibiotics
Once bacteria are complicating acne, adding an antibiotic for 8-12 weeks is useful. Antibiotics used in acne treatment include doxycycline, minocycline, and erythromycin. It is important that other treatments be used alongside the antibiotic.
Light therapy (Photodynamic Therapy).
Photodynamic Therapies (LED Blue Light/Red Light) in combination with Levulan® activates chemicals in P. acnes resultling in its destruction and significant reduction of inflammatory lesions. The process works well and there is no discomfort. Usually 6-8 (20 minute) sessions result in clearance that lasts 12 months.
Vitamins.
Vitamins A, B complex, C, D, E, Folic acid, flavonoids, and beta carotene also are believed to help the skin. Discuss with us a good vitamin program for you. 
Acne Scarring
Acne that is moderate or severe leads to severe scarring. There are several methods to treat acne scarring, depending on the severity.
Microdermabrasion.
The top layer of the skin is taken away to make the scar look less deep. It makes the scar less visible but does not remove it completely. Many treatments may be needed.
Chemical peels.
Different types of acidare put on the skin so that a smoother layer can form.
Laser
A laser is used to burn off the top layer of the skin and stimulate the dermis to make collagen, filling in the scar.
Impact of Acne
The scarring that results from acne leads to reduced self-esteem and depression. This can be a lifetime consequence of untreated acne. 
Prevention is the most effective treatment against Acne Scars.
Don’t put it off!
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