young man with acne issue

Acne

At our clinic, we offer acne treatments that begin with a comprehensive facial regimen designed to tackle both active acne and scarring. Our skin exams are meticulous, ensuring personalized care. Our methods yield significant improvements—about 60% by the first visit, and up to 90% clarity after just four sessions, typically within two months. Your dedicated doctor will craft a tailored regimen that evolves with each visit, maintaining momentum and ensuring continued progress.

What is Acne?

Acne is a common skin condition characterized by the presence of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and sometimes cysts or nodules on the skin. It primarily affects areas of the body with a high concentration of oil glands, such as the face, chest, back, and shoulders. Acne occurs when the hair follicles become clogged with dead skin cells, excess oil (sebum), and bacteria, leading to inflammation and the formation of various types of acne lesions.

Acne

Symptoms of Acne

Acne is a common skin condition that manifests through various symptoms on the face, chest, and back.

The most noticeable signs are blackheads (open comedones), whiteheads (closed comedones), and pimples (pustules), which appear as tender, red spots, often topped with white pus.

More severe forms may develop into painful nodules and cysts beneath the skin’s surface, which can lead to scarring.

Those affected by acne might also experience oily skin or, alternatively, dry, flaky patches in the affected areas.

Factors such as hormonal changes, stress, diet, and skincare habits typically cause the severity of symptoms to fluctuate.

Risk Factors of Acne

Several risk factors can contribute to the development or exacerbation of acne. These include:

1. Hormonal changes:  Hormonal changes during puberty can increase oil production and make the skin more prone to acne breakouts. 

2. Family history:  There is a genetic component to acne, so having a family history of the condition can increase your risk.

3. Hormonal medications:  Some medications containing androgens or corticosteroids may also contribute to acne breakouts.

4. Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental elements can worsen acne. Factors like high humidity, pollution, and occupational exposure to certain chemicals or oils can increase the risk of developing acne or exacerbate existing acne.

5. Cosmetics and skincare products: Some cosmetics and skincare products, especially those that are oil-based or comedogenic (tend to clog pores), can contribute to pore blockage and acne breakouts. 

6. Certain medications: Some medications, including certain steroids, lithium, and anticonvulsants, have been associated with acne development or worsening of existing acne.

7. Diet:  high glycemic index foods, dairy products, and foods rich in saturated fats, may contribute to acne. 

8. Stress: While stress does not directly cause acne, it can worsen existing acne or trigger breakouts.

 

What causes Acne?

Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Several factors contribute to this common skin condition.

Firstly, hormonal changes, particularly during puberty, pregnancy, and menstrual cycles, can increase oil production significantly, exacerbating acne.

Genetics also play a role; if your parents had acne, you’re more likely to develop it as well.

Additionally, certain medications and cosmetics can provoke acne outbreaks by causing further blockages in the pores.

Stress and diet—specifically foods high in sugars and dairy products—have also been linked to worsening acne symptoms. 

When Should I seek Medical Advice?

It is advisable to seek medical advice for acne in the following situations:

1. Severe or persistent acne: 

2. Acne affecting self-esteem and quality of life:

3. Early signs of scarring: 

4. Failure of over-the-counter treatments: 

5. Persistent acne into adulthood: 

6. Acne accompanied by other symptoms such as excessive hair growth, irregular menstrual cycles, or signs of hormonal imbalances.

 

Treatment Options For Acne

Several effective treatments are available for managing acne, catering to different severity levels and skin types.

Over-the-counter topical treatments containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or alpha hydroxy acids can help by clearing pores and reducing the number of skin bacteria.

For more persistent cases, doctors often prescribe topical retinoids or antibiotics that reduce inflammation and bacteria on the skin.

medications, including antibiotics or hormone regulators like birth control pills, are options for severe acne.

Additionally, treatments like light therapy and chemical peels can target and mitigate stubborn acne by destroying bacteria and removing dead skin cells, promoting clearer skin.

For the best results, combining these treatments with good skincare habits, such as washing your face regularly and using non-comedogenic products, is the road to better acne control. 

Get Your Acne Consultation Today

Reclaim Your skin health

Why Choose Us?

  • Personalised Treatments 
    Our minimally invasive procedures offer fewer risks, a quicker recovery, and higher success rates than open surgery.
  • More than 15 years of experience
    Following our non-surgical treatments patients are recovering much quicker with a cure rate of 98%.
  • Integrity
  • We are passionate about helping you and will always ensure that no treatment is recommended unnecessarily
  • Experienced Assistance by our Friendly and Trained Doctor
    Our practice promotes a relaxed and friendly atmosphere where patients are provided with accurate information based on the latest research and technology
  • Everything Under One Roof
    At Parkwood Skin Clinic we’re committed to providing complete, integrated care under one roof. From diagnosis and treatment to prevention.
Dr gilles Laur

 

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