ACNE CARE
Acne isn’t just one of the most common skin conditions worldwide — it’s also one of the most notoriously difficult to treat. According to the Australasian College of Dermatologists, acne affects 85 per cent of Australians aged 15 to 24 years old. This is a time when teenagers and young adults want to look their best, and even relatively mild acne can cause anxiety in social situations and damage to self-esteem.
Though acne often appears during puberty, for some people it can be a problem that continues beyond this period or doesn’t appear until their late twenties. Adult acne can be equally distressing, to say nothing of the acne scars that may be left behind by years of severe breakouts.
The Sydney skin specialists at AF Aesthetics have introduced innovative methods and techniques to help patients treat acne and acne scars, restoring a smoother, healthier complexion. Please request a consultation to learn more about our approach to acne care.
ACNE
How Acne Develops
Acne. Zits. Pimples. Spots. Whatever you call it, it’s a common skin condition that typically begins in adolescence. Acne lesions often occur when a hair follicle and its associated oil gland become clogged and inflamed. Bacteria known as P. acnes can exacerbate the problem, causing additional inflammation. The different types of acne lesions include whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pimples, nodules and cysts.
While it is uncertain why some people develop acne and others do not, breakouts can be triggered by:
- Genetics
- Hormones
- Bacteria
- Clogged pores
- Excess sebum
- Emotional stress
- Physical stress
- Diet
- Occupation
- Cosmetic products
- Medications
Treatment for mild acne can be as simple as a targeted skincare regimen, while more severe cases may require a medical approach.
When to See a Doctor for Acne
Acne is not usually a serious health issue, but that doesn’t mean you must learn to live with it. If you suffer from aggressive or chronic acne, professional treatments can improve your appearance and, in some cases, resolve the issue entirely. Seeking medical care can help reduce the emotional and social impact of the condition, as well as reduce your risk of developing permanent skin scarring or discolouration. It is never too early to visit a doctor if acne bothers you.
Personalised Acne Care at AF Aesthetics
Our acne care programs start with a medical assessment to correctly identify the causes and types of acne you’re dealing with. Because acne is often caused by a combination of factors that are unique to each individual, your treatment plan may combine modalities. We will discuss all of the components at play during your consultation and use that information to develop a multi-pronged treatment approach just for you.
Our acne treatments aim to reduce sebum secretion and acne-causing microorganisms. This leads to a reduction in acne lesions and overall inflammation, and may also result in pore size and skin texture improvements. Medical skin conditions that may be associated with acne can also be improved with minimal side effects utilising systemic oral medications.
Sydney Acne Treatment Options
Depending on your condition and skin type, your personalised acne treatment plan may include:
ACNE SCARS
Why Acne Scars Occur
Contrary to popular belief, acne scarring isn’t always the result of popping or picking at spots. Acne scars are usually the result of deep, inflamed lesions that damage more of the surrounding tissue. Various factors can put you at a higher risk of developing acne scars, including:
- Severe (swollen, red and painful) acne
- Delaying treatment for severe acne
- Darker skin
- History of keloid scarring
- Family history of scars
There are two primary types of acne scarring: atrophic or depressed scars, which sit below the surface of the skin, and hypertrophic or raised scars, which protrude above the skin surface. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is not a true acne scar, but it is another lasting consequence of severe acne outbreaks.
When to See a Doctor for Acne Scars
Acne scars are common in young adults, and they are more than a simple aesthetic issue. Even if you outgrow your acne or learn to manage breakouts, acne scars can be lingering reminders of a painful period in your life, and continue to limit your emotional and social well-being. Some patients consider acne scars worse than the acne itself because they are difficult and time-consuming to conceal and virtually impossible to correct on your own. It is important to seek proper medical treatment for acne so scarring can be minimised.
Treating Acne Scars at AF Aesthetics
Acne scars are classified in different grades and are also subtyped based on their morphologic features. Our initial assessment is critical since different treatment modalities are useful for different grades or subtypes. More invasive treatment modalities, for example, are not necessary to improve early-grade acne scars. We provide specific treatments for different types of acne scars to ensure the best clinical outcome.
Our hope is that you will leave our clinic with the best skin of your life. Our specialists understand the complexities of skin conditions and anatomy that underlie effective treatments and satisfying results. Our treatments are thoroughly researched, backed by clinical trials and safe.
Sydney Acne Scar Treatment Options
Depending on your skin type and the type of scars, your custom acne scar treatment plan may include:
The Journey to Clearer Skin Starts With a Consultation
Dealing with acne or the resulting scarring can be discouraging and depressing. At AF Aesthetics, we understand how challenging it can be to live with these conditions and we are here to help. Our Chatswood clinic offers the safest and most effective treatments for acne and acne scars in the Greater Sydney area. As our patient, you can expect a tailored approach that caters to your personal skin type and lifestyle and combines noninvasive treatments to optimise your results.
If you have questions about acne care or would like to schedule an appointment, call AF Aesthetics on 8004 3323. Our experienced team of specialist doctors can help you look refreshed and feel confident in your skin again.