What is acne?
The way acne affects the skin can vary tremendously between individuals. Some of us may just get an odd spot from time to time. For others, acne can cause persistent, large and inflamed pustules and nodules which may leave a blemish or a scar during the teenage years and beyond. We are able to help the whole spectrum of acne, from mild to severe, and have particular expertise in managing persistent acne in adults. Treating acne at an early stage will prevent permanent blemishes and scars from developing.
Who gets acne?
Acne is most common during the teenage period amd 90% of teenagers get acne at some point. However, acne is not just a teenage problem. 30% of those in their twenties and 20% of those in their thirties are also affected by recurrent acne. Adult acne is increasingly common and we see a large number of adult sufferers in our practice.
What are the causes of acne?
- Hair follicles clog up because the cells lining them become sticky
- The sebaceous glands produce too much sebum which gets trapped in hair follicles because of the sticky cells clogging them
- Proprionobacterium acnes is a bacteria that builds up in the sebum that has collected in clogged follicles
- This causes inflammation and spots, nodules and cysts
- The treatments we offer are designed at addressing each of the three causes of acne.
How is acne treated?
Following a detailed consultation, our Dermatologists will be able to offer you treatments which are tailored to the type of acne you have taking into account your age, the previous treatments you have had, your lifestyle, and your goals. We offer a range of latest treatments which may be recommended alone or in combination.
What are the effects of acne
Visible acne lesions on the face can be embarrassing and frustrating, and it is common for many sufferers to feel significant psychological distress from them. Lesions themselves may cause discomfort and bleeding, and can lead to permanent scarring of the skin.
Why should acne be treated?
Treating acne improves quality of life significantly, and can transform self-confidence and self-esteem. Treating acne early is important to prevent scarring.
I already have acne scars – is it too late?
Definitely not. The first step will be to gain control of the acne so that new scars do not form. Once this is achieved we can work through different treatments to improve the scars including laser therapy, Tixel thermo-mechanical treatment, fillers, TCA cross and many others. It is never too late.
