Acne
Overview
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting adolescents and adults alike. It occurs when oil glands become blocked with sebum and dead skin cells, followed by inflammation and changes in the skin's natural bacterial environment.
Acne can appear as blackheads, whiteheads, red bumps, pustules or deeper, painful nodules. It commonly affects the face, chest and back.
While acne is often associated with adolescence, adult acne is also common and may be influenced by hormonal changes, stress, skincare products and other factors.
Early and appropriate treatment is important because persistent inflammation can lead to post-inflammatory pigmentation and permanent acne scarring.
Common Types of Acne
- Comedonal acne - blackheads and whiteheads
- Inflammatory acne - red, swollen bumps and pustules
- Nodulocystic acne - deeper, painful lesions
What Causes Acne?
Acne develops through several interacting processes:
- Increased sebum production
- Blockage of oil glands
- Changes in the skin microbiome
- Inflammation
Treatment Options
Medical Acne Treatment
Topical and oral medications may be recommended depending on the severity and pattern of acne.
Chemical Peels
Selected chemical peels can help reduce excess oil, unclog pores and improve superficial acne.
Yellow laser + infrared light
The yellow light targets blood vessels to reduce redness, calm inflammation, and eliminate acne-causing bacteria, while the infrared light penetrates deeper to shrink oil-producing sebaceous glands and stimulate collagen to heal scars.
Hydrafacial
Deep cleansing and exfoliation may be incorporated into an acne management programme for selected patients.
Radiofrequency Microneedling
Generally considered after active acne is controlled, particularly when acne scarring is also present.
Our Approach
Successful acne treatment is not simply about treating individual pimples. Our approach considers active acne, oil production, inflammation, pigmentation and the risk of scarring together.
Early treatment can help minimise the long-term effects of acne on skin texture and pigmentation.