Acne

Acne is an inflammatory skin condition that appears when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to whiteheads, blackheads, or pimples. It most commonly appears on the face, forehead, chest, upper back, and shoulders.

The main symptoms of acne are spots, however, these spots will present in several different ways, most commonly on the face, back and chest. The types of spots that can occur are as follows:

• Whiteheads: small, white, raised bumps on the skin which occur when pores become closed or plugged
• Blackheads: small, dark bumps on the skin which result from open plugged pores
• Papules: small red, tender bumps that appear on the surface of the skin, due to excess skin cells and oil clogging a pore
• Pustules: pus-filled pimples which occur due to infection or clogging of a pore cavity on the surface of the skin
• Nodules: large, solid, and sometimes painful, lumps that appear beneath the surface of the skin
• Cystic lesions: painful, pus-filled lumps which appear beneath the surface of the skin

Acne is caused when hair follicles or pores become blocked or clogged, which can be a result of many different things:

• Hormonal changes due to puberty or pregnancy
• Dietary factors, such as the consumption of certain carbohydrates that increase blood sugar levels, or dairy products
• Medications that contain corticosteroids, testosterone, or lithium
• Excess oil production
• Hair follicles clogged by oil and dead skin cells
• Bacteria
• Excess activity of a type of hormone (androgens)

Whilst acne is generally not associated with any serious health risks, it can have a major effect on a person’s day-to-day confidence and self-esteem, especially if visible on prominent areas of the body.

In severe cases acne can cause skin scarring which may be permanent, or can result in dark spots on the skin which may take months or years to disappear.

Whilst acne cannot always be fully prevented, there are certain simple measures that can be taken to help avoid flare ups and manage the condition:

• Regularly wash your skin and hair to remove oils and dead skin.
• Avoid heavy makeup and always wash it off before sleeping.
• Eat a balanced diet with less sugar and dairy products.
• Avoid picking or squeezing pimples as it can worsen the acne and cause scarring.

If you suffer from acne or are experiencing associated symptoms then seeking advice from a dermatologist is recommended. 

At RENA Clinics, our team of consultant dermatologists is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of care throughout the diagnosis and treatment process. We recognise that acne is a complex condition that requires a personalised approach to treatment.

A comprehensive consultation at RENA Clinics involves a specialist acne dermatologist conducting a detailed evaluation of your skin, considering factors such as the severity and duration of your acne, its impact on your daily life, and your medical history. This detailed assessment guides the identification of the most appropriate treatment for your specific condition and allows us to develop a customised treatment plan.

We understand the concerns and issues people face when dealing with acne and offer safe and effective solutions to help you achieve the appearance you desire. If you are considering treatment for acne or just want to understand your condition better, our team will thoroughly assess your individual situation, discuss the available options, and guide you towards the best treatment plan to address your unique needs and concerns.

Treatment options may include topical treatments, such as retinoids and benzoyl peroxide, to reduce inflammation and clear pores. For more persistent or widespread acne, oral antibiotics may be prescribed to target the bacteria that contribute to breakouts. Hormonal treatments, like contraceptive pills, may be recommended for female patients where hormone fluctuations are contributing to acne.

In cases of severe or resistant acne, isotretinoin (commonly known as Roaccutane) may be considered. Isotretinoin is the most effective treatment for severe acne, offering the potential for long-term remission. However, due to its potency and the possibility of side effects, it requires careful monitoring, including regular follow-up appointments and blood tests to ensure your safety throughout the course of treatment.

Throughout your treatment journey, our team will closely monitor your progress, making adjustments as needed to ensure the best possible outcome. Our goal is to help you achieve clear, healthy skin and restore your confidence.