Acne

Treatment is aimed at overcoming the factors that cause acne. These are increased oil production, blocked oil glands, overgrowth of bacteria, and inflammatory products. Severe acne may require medication, but excellent results can also be obtained with lasers and light sources including in the blue light spectrum and also in combination with Photo Dynamic Therapy (PDT).

The options for treatment in the clinic include:

• Microdermabrasion, and extractions.
• Peels both micro peels (salicylic acid) and prescription peels (retinoic acid)
• Laser Peels, where a combination of superficial peels and lasers can give faster and better results, including with the Revlite and Genesis lasers.
• LED light, especially red light, can help with reducing acne inflammation and controlling sebum production.
• Photodynamic therapy. A photosensitiser is applied to the skin and left for 60 minutes during which it is absorbed by the sebaceous glands. A light source is then applied to the surface to target the now light sensitive glands. Typically 3 treatments, spaced 4 weeks apart are needed, followed by maintenance every 6 to 12 months is necessary.
• Infini which delivers radiofrequency energy through micro needling can help active acne in certain cases.

Treatment options for acne scars range from surface treatments for very superficial scars (Peels and Microdermabrasion) to laser and needling treatments to treat below the surface of the skin. Lasers start with no downtime lasers such as the Revlite and Genesis to advanced medical lasers such as the latest fractional laser technology (FRAXEL), fractional radiofrequency micro needling (INFINI) and the ultrashort pulse laser procedure of Picotoning.

Treating active acne can significantly improve the appearance of the skin as well as prevent acne scarring. Photodynamic Therapy is reserved for more severe degrees of acne and many doctors feel results as good as Roaccutane can be achieved without the potential side effects of this drug.

Where acne scarring has already occurred significant improvements can be obtained through a series of either radiofrequency or laser treatments.

It depends on the severity of acne and the planned treatment program but before clinic treatments some skin preparation will have been recommended. It is important to remember that a multi-pronged treatment approach is needed in managing acne and that some home skincare routine is essential.

Some acne treatments leave the skin sun sensitive, so sunscreen use is essential. Use an oil-free formulation. Some sunscreens can aggravate acne so you may need to trial a few.