Acne is a common condition that can affect anyone at any time in their life.
It is often a long-term concern that can be upsetting; causing discomfort and embarrassment. Spots, pimples, blackheads and whiteheads are common symptoms of acne which can appear on the face, neck, shoulders, upper back and chest.
Those who are more significantly affected by frequent breakouts of acne are likely to also develop acne scarring, which will affect the tone and texture of the skin.
‘Acne Vulgaris’ is the most common form of acne, and usually affects teenagers. During puberty hormone levels will fluctuate, causing the glands in the skin to produce more oil. This excess oil will then become trapped in the skin and produce bacteria, triggering an inflammatory process which displays as spots and pimples.
As hormones control the glands, it stands to reason that other times in a person’s life (such as during pregnancy and with ageing) will encourage the likelihood of breakouts. The One Clinic offers a range of treatments for acne, including: targeted skincare, skin peels and fractora – a microneedling radiofrequency treatment.
It is important to resist squeezing a spot as this not only helps to spread the condition, but can also damage the skin and tissues. It’s this damage that leads to acne scarring which can present as: ice-pick scars (small and puncture-like), rolling scars (giving a rippled effect) and box-car scars (small round indentations).
Skin discolouration (pigmentation) can also result from damage to the skin and tissues, and frequently accompanies acne scars. Laser treatment, chemical peels and radiofrequency microneedling can be effective treatment options that restore the skin’s even texture and tone.