Q: I have nodulocystic acne that is really painful. Do I need to see a skin doctor? What are treatment options? Do I need to worry about scars?
— Ben Q.
A: Nodulocystic acne is a severe type of acne that requires prompt treatment by a skin doctor. As you know, it’s also painful with lots of facial inflammation. And yes, you need to worry about scars. This particular type of acne typically results in severe acne scarring. In order to treat nodulocystic acne, dermatologists first aim to reduce inflammation and minimize the size of cysts and nodules.
Nodulocystic acne appears as multiple inflamed cysts and nodules, which may also turn deep red and purple. This severe type of acne is best treated with a two-fold acne treatment regimen. For severe acne and severe acne scarring, a significant portion of your face is affected. Unless you treat your nodulocystic acne under the care of skin doctor, it will become worse and not resolve on its own.
Using photodynamic therapy (PDT), such as Vbeam and Levulan, addresses both the acne itself and minimizes the potential for severe acne scarring. Using a laser treatment such as Fraxel DUAL treats severe acne, minimizes acne scarring and refines skin.
PDT treatment uses the blue light from Vbeam and the topical photosensitizer Levulan to reduce inflammation and minimize the size of your acne cysts and nodules. PDT treatment also rejuvenates your facial skin. Fraxel DUAL uses light waves from burn away the follicle sac and sebaceous gland so acne eruptions cannot occur. Fraxel DUAL laser treatments also induce oxygen formation within the bacterial cells to prompt destruction. Fraxel DUAL’s Erbium fiber laser deeply penetrates skin for acne scar treatment. The Thulium fiber laser is more superficial and refines skin.
A consultation with a skin doctor will let you know your ideal nodulocystic acne treatment.
