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Condition Overview

Acne is a common skin condition involving the oil glands at the base of the hair follicles. It is an inflammatory condition which is due to the skin glands and hair follicles becoming clogged with oil, dead skin cells or bacteria. These clogged pores are seen as red spots, white heads, black heads and sometimes cysts or nodules. Acne usually occurs on the face, neck, back, chest, shoulders or upper arms and commonly begins in puberty, when hormones called androgens causes the skin follicle glands to grow larger and produce more oil, known as sebum.

What causes acne?

While there is no one specific cause of acne, there are several factors involved in the development of the condition. These include hormones, including those changes experienced during puberty and pregnancy, topical skin applications such as certain make-up, and also a hereditary or genetic component.

How can acne be treated?

Acne can be successfully treated, with a range of options available such as topical and oral medications and light-based therapies. Factors such as your general health and wellbeing, lifestyle and the nature of your acne, are all considered when determining the best treatment for your acne. Some treatments require a dermatologist to prescribe them, and cannot be prescribed by a GP.

Acne can often be successfully treated and we recommend those experiencing acne consult a dermatologist.

Where do I start with acne treatment?

At NBLDC, you’ll initially see our dermatologist, who will assess your acne and determine the best treatment plan for you. You’ll also be advised on whether a follow-up consult is required, to review the efficacy of treatment, or perhaps to alter the treatment plan, where necessary.

After this consult, you have the option of an additional consult with one of our nurses, who can talk through what skin care products might be helpful for you, taking into account the treatment plan you’ve been given. The nurse will talk you through various options, as well as giving you samples to take home and try out. It’s important to remember that skin care needs to be tailored to your skin and treatment, and samples can be important in determining whether your skin responds positively to recommended products.

If the dermatologist has recommended chemical peels or light-based therapy, most patients will be given the option of having these treatments on the same day as your consult with the dermatologist.

You’re welcome to return to the clinic at any time, to consult with our nurses about skin problems or reactions to products. They can help fine tune the skin care regime for optimal skin health.

How can i encourage healthier, acne-free skin, every day?

  • Eat a health, well balanced, low GI diet, avoiding sugary foods
  • Drink plenty of water, avoiding sugary soft drinks
  • Maintain a healthy weight, exercising regularly and learn to better manage stress
  • Take cool, short showers, using only a gentle cleanser to acne prone areas
  • Engage an easy, consistent skin care regime that becomes a habit
  • Avoid picking at your acne to minimise the risk of scarring
  • Diligent use of SPF50+ sunscreen

What are the treatment options for acne?

The treatment options for acne include:

  • Prescription medication, either topical or oral
  • Biophotonic treatment
  • Light based therapy
  • Chemical peels
  • Daily skin care regime
  • Lifestyle changes
Treatments

Corrective Treatments

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Love the skin you’re in

At Neutral Bay Laser & Dermatology Clinic, we’re committed to providing the most effective treatments for your skin, with the utmost safety, for the whole family. That’s why the first step of every treatment is a review by our dermatologist, Dr Terence Poon. Make your appointment today to love the skin you’re in.

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