Acne

What Is Acne?

Acne is a common, long-term disorder affecting the hair follicle and sebaceous gland, in which there is expansion and blockage of the follicle and inflammation of the pore.

What Are The Features Of Acne?

What Causes Acne?

A whitehead forms when excess oil and dead skin cells build up and plug the opening of a pore. 3 Over time, as the buildup accumulates and oxidises, it turns black.

When bacteria become trapped within a pore that is blocked by an accumulation of excess oil and dead skin cells, it can multiply, leading to inflammation and the formation of a pimple. In cases where the inflammation penetrates deeper into the skin, it can give rise to a tender or painful nodule or cyst. Cysts are characterised by their softer texture and the presence of pus, while nodules feel harder to the touch.

What Are The Complications Of Acne?

Acne breakouts can lead to permanent scars when treated poorly for an extended period of time. More commonly, acne may leave dark marks seen as red, pink, purple, black or brown spots called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).

Depending on how dark the spot is, it can take more than a year to fade naturally. In order to speed up to recovery, there are treatments and chemical peels available to help your skin look fresh.

Read more information on acne scars here. and our guide on PIH here.

What Should I Do When I Have Acne?

Acne is not difficult to treat when a doctor is consulted early and managed correctly. By following your doctor’s regimen, it can be managed and reduced before it causes acne scarring. Early treatment of acne prevents and reduces the severity of scarring and is less painful than treatments available for scars.

What Are The Treatment Options For Acne?

Topical Preparations

Over-the-counter or pharmacy-sold skincare products can help to manage acne through ingredients such as salicylic acid that help to unclog pores.

Below are some examples of common ingredients used to treat acne.

Salicylic acid helps to unclog pores and prevent new breakouts. Possible side effects include mild stinging, skin discolouration and minor skin irritation.
Benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria and helps remove excess oil and dead skin cells which clog pores. Possible side effects include dry skin, scaling and irritation.
Azelaic acid prevents pores from becoming plugged, is mildly antibacterial and helps correct dark marks (PIH)
Antibiotic creams like tetracyclines, and erythromycin reduce the amount of P. acnes bacteria on your skin and soothes inflammation.

At VIDASKIN, we have formulated our own anti-acne skincare products to complement our clinic treatments. Check out our store to make a purchase.

Oral Treatments

There are also pills available to help manage acne. Here are some available treatments.

Antibiotics reduce the amount of P. acnes bacteria on your skin and reduce inflammation.
Birth Control Pills decrease the circulation of androgens which decreases the production of oil in pores.
Isotretinoin reduces oil production and kills bacteria in the pores for more serious forms of acne. Possible side effects include increased sun sensitivity and dry skin. It must be avoided by conceiving or pregnant women as it can cause birth defects.

In-Clinic Treatments

Lasers

Laser therapies are a useful treatment modality and can enhance treatment response when used in conjunction with topical and oral treatments7. Specifically, the picosecond laser is highly recommended for people unable to follow an oral or topical medication regimen.8 Patients typically require multiple sessions to achieve the desired results, with future maintenance.

Chemical Peels

Peels with ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid and mandelic acid help to exfoliate and remove superficial acne lesions and regenerate new epidermal and dermal tissues. The right peel for your skin is determined by the patient’s skin type, acne activity, and type of acne scars.

VIDASKIN Tips

Can I Use Cosmetics When I Have Acne?

Yes, you may continue to use makeup but make sure to remove all makeup before going to bed with an oil-free makeup remover and a gentle cleanser. For optimal hygiene, clean your makeup brushes every week to prevent breakouts.

VIDASKIN Debunks Myths

Does Diet Cause Or Aggravate Acne?

Findings from a few studies suggest that following a low-glycaemic diet (low sugar level) may reduce the severity of acne. Low-glycaemic foods include most fresh vegetables, some fresh fruits, beans and oats. An American study of 2,258 patients found that a low-glycaemic diet reduced acne, with 87% of patients saying they had less acne, and 91% saying they needed less acne medication.11

In another study, 47,355 adult women were surveyed about their dietary habits. It found that women who drank 2 or more glasses of skimmed milk a day were 44% more likely to have acne than others.12

More research is needed to confirm ongoing scientific theories regarding food-related worsening of acne. In our medical experience, food intolerances or specific dietary restrictions are also highly specific to each individual. Do note that what works for you may not work for someone else.

Authors:
Dr Vicki Leong, MBBS (Melbourne), MRCP (UK), Postgrad Diploma in Clinical Dermatology (Cardiff)
Dr Sarah Teo, MBBChBAO (Ireland)