Acne Specialist

Renee Patel, M.D.

Internist & Aesthetic Specialist located in Downey, CA

Acne is the most common skin condition in the country, affecting up to 50 million teens and adults. At her private practice in Downey, CA, Dr. Renee Patel, MD has cured unsightly acne using various acne treatments for generations of patients throughout Downey and neighboring Santa Fe Springs, Bell Gardens and Norwalk.

Acne Q & A

Click below for information on Venus Versa and Venus Viva treatments to help fight acne:





What causes acne?

A chronic inflammatory condition characterized by blackheads, whiteheads, pimples and cysts, acne is caused by an excess of oil produced that when combined with skin cells, plug pores. Plugged pores causes bacteria to multiply, causing skin lesions. Hormones, menstruation, emotional stress, medications and genetics can also cause an increased production of oil. Acne most often affects people ages 12 to 24, but can occur in older adults, as well, and usually appears on the face, neck, chest and back.

How does blue light acne treatment work?

Blue light kills the acne-causing bacteria known as Propionibacterium, or P, which can cause inflammation in acne. By eradicating bacteria from the skin, blue light decreases the inflammation associated with red pimples (papules) seen in acne. After several treatments, pimples and redness disappear and skin regains a healthy appearance.

What is microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment that is highly effective in eliminating acne scars. The process entails puncturing the skin with microscopic holes to stimulate the production of collagen. Called collagen induction, this process rejuvenates the skin, improving texture, reducing hyperpigmentation, fine lines and scars – especially acne scars. To perform the procedure, Dr. Patel uses a small, hand-held device to make the tiny holes in the skin’s top layer.

What other acne treatments are available from Dr. Patel?

Dr. Patel also utilizes the RevLite laser with PhotoAcoustic energy to get rid of acne, acne scars and enlarged pores. The laser emits light deep into the skins lower layers to stimulate collagen production and improve acne and acne scars. Other acne treatment options include: topical prescription medications, such as: benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, retinoids and salicylic acid. Oral antibiotics are another option for managing acne, especially acne that covers a large surface of the body. Antibiotics used to treat acne include: tetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline, erythromycin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, trimethoprim and azithromycin.