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Acne Vulgaris Treatments Singapore
Acne vulgaris or acne is a common skin condition many individuals struggle with. Although it may happen during adolescence, cases of acne vulgaris may not always subside during adulthood. Dealing with acne vulgaris can be frustrating and affect self-confidence. If you are dealing with persistent acne, learn more about various acne vulgaris treatments that can help address your skin condition below.
What is Acne Vulgaris?
Acne vulgaris is a skin condition characterised by the formation of comedones, papules, pustules, nodules, and/or cysts as a result of hair follicles clogged with dead skin cells and excessive oil or sebum from the skin. Once it heals, it may result in permanent scarring.
The severity of acne vulgaris can be mild to severe. Aside from the physical lesions, this condition may also pose a significant psychological and social impact on individuals.
What Does Acne Vulgaris Look Like?
Depending on its severity, acne vulgaris may look differently on each individual. Milder cases appear as non-inflammatory lesions such as blackheads and whiteheads. Some inflammatory lesions like papules or pustules may also be noticeable. For moderate cases, there is a greater number of papules and pustules due to more inflammation. They are usually more widespread across the face, and may be found on the chest and back.
The most intensive form of acne or severe acne is characterised by a high number of inflamed cysts and nodules along with papules, pustules, and comedones. This level of acne is more likely to cause permanent scarring due to the depth and severity of the lesions.
Acne Vulgaris Treatment Options
Various acne vulgaris treatments may be recommended to help clear lesions as well as prevent new lesions and scarring. Here are the different treatments available:
Carbon Laser Peel
Carbon laser peel uses heat to address excessive sebum production and kill bacteria in the pores. This process also removes debris within the pores, supporting softer and clearer skin. It is a quick treatment with little to no downtime that is also suitable for sensitive skin.
Chemical Peel
For mild acne cases, chemical peels are often recommended, using an exfoliating solution to remove dead skin cells and help clarify the skin. Chemical peels also have minimal downtime, but individuals are advised to limit sun exposure after the treatment.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy
IPL therapy pulses light waves at multiple wavelengths to help reduce acne symptoms and improve skin texture. This treatment is more often recommended for those with lighter skin tones.
Photopneumatic Therapy
Photopneumatic therapy is an acne vulgaris treatment that combines pulsed light with a vacuum to address clogged pores. This integrated treatment helps to remove dead skin cells and excess oil while attacking acne-causing bacteria in the skin.
Extraction
Extraction is the opening of skin pores to remove blackheads and whiteheads, and is typically done to help clear the complexion. The extracted areas may temporarily experience redness.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)/Blue Light Therapy
PDT or blue light therapy uses photosensitisers or a substance that gets activated by absorbing light, killing bacteria that promote acne growth. This treatment may also help shrink oil glands to reduce excess sebum production. Individuals who undergo this treatment are also advised to limit sun exposure for a short time.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive treatment that helps to gently exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin and clean debris. It is a milder version of dermabrasion, which may be too rough on most individuals.
Steroid injections
Steroid or cortisone injections are used to address acne bumps, especially more severe cases of nodular and cystic acne. These shots help to reduce the symptoms from inflamed lesions.
Topical and oral medication
Certain topical and oral medications may also be used to address acne vulgaris. Prescription from a professional doctor is needed before getting acne treatment products.
What Are The Symptoms of Acne Vulgaris?
The different symptoms of acne vulgaris may appear on the skin of the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders. Key symptoms include:
- Comedones: A primary form of acne also known as blackheads (open comedones) and whiteheads (closed comedones).
- Papules: Raised, tender bumps due to inflammation with no visible yellow or white centre of pus
- Pustules: Formed after papules develop, characterised by pus at their tips.
- Nodules: A severe case of acne in the form of painful, solid lumps beneath the skin’s surface without a whitehead or blackhead. Nodules can last for weeks or months and often lead to scarring.
What Causes Acne Vulgaris?
Acne forms due to the accumulation of oil, bacteria, dead skin, and debris that block the pores. Individuals with oily skin are typically more prone to acne, but those with dry or combination skin are also at risk of having acne vulgaris.
Acne vulgaris often begins in puberty, when hormonal surges stimulate excessive sebum production on the face. Other triggers include hormonal changes during pregnancy or the menstrual cycle, high humidity, and sweating. Some medications such as corticosteroids may also worsen acne symptoms.
How to Prevent Acne Vulgaris?
Here are some tips on how to prevent acne vulgaris:
Keep your face clean
Whether or not you are already dealing with acne, wash your face once to twice daily to prevent excess oil and dirt from building up on your skin’s surface. Use a mild facial cleanser or one recommended by your doctor depending on your skin type. Always dry your face with a clean tissue or towel, and try your best not to touch your face throughout the day, as bacteria can easily transfer from your hands.
Moisturise as needed
Even if you have oily skin, you still need to moisturise your face daily. This is especially important if you are already on an acne treatment, as some treatments can leave the skin dry. Look for moisturisers that are non-comedogenic to avoid clogging your pores. Before you sleep, make sure to cleanse your face thoroughly with a suitable cleanser for acne-prone skin, avoiding oil or cream-based cleansers or makeup removers to prevent excess residual oils from clogging your pores.
Change your pillowcase regularly
Bacteria transfer from dirty pillowcases may be one of the triggers of your acne. Wash your pillowcase at least once a week using a gentle detergent, or consider using silk or antimicrobial fabric to reduce bacteria buildup. If possible, sleep on your back as much as possible.
Use makeup sparingly
If you are going through an acne breakout, avoid using makeup for a few days, especially foundation, powder, and blush. If you do have to wear makeup, double cleanse to wash it off completely at the end of the day. If possible, go for products labelled as non-comedogenic.
Be mindful of your diet and exercise
While food is not a direct cause of acne, it is still wise to avoid greasy food and junk food, incorporating more fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet. Some individuals are also more likely to get acne due to a diet high in dairy products and high-sugar foods, so do your best to reduce intake of these foods if possible. Do your best to exercise regularly to help regulate your hormones.
Manage your stress
Stress has been linked to worsening the severity of acne vulgaris, as it increases hormones like cortisol and androgens which stimulate oil glands to produce excessive sebum. Try relaxation techniques and self-care routines to reduce your stress and prevent stress-related acne.
Consult a professional doctor
Sometimes, despite changes in your lifestyle, acne may still persist. Consulting with a professional aesthetic practitioner can help you understand the severity of your acne and suitable treatments that can help control them.
If you are looking for an acne clinic in Singapore CuraMed Medical and Aesthetic Clinic’s highly qualified and professional team is here to take care of your skin needs and help you address your acne. Contact us right now to book an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acne Vulgaris Treatment in Singapore
How long will it take for acne to go away?
On average, it may take between one to two weeks for acne pimples to clear up on their own. However, the exact time varies depending on each individual’s condition and may take longer for severe acne, even with treatment.
Can I squeeze acne?
No, you are not advised to squeeze or pop acne because it pushes the bacteria and pus deeper into the skin, worsening inflammation and causing infection. It may also cause permanent scars and dark spots. See a dermatologist immediately for a safer treatment.
When should I seek professional advice?
If lifestyle changes and over-the-counter treatments are not effective in treating acne, you may consider consulting a professional doctor to recommend the best treatment for your acne.
What is the most suitable treatment for my acne?
Everyone’s acne condition is different and there is no one-size-fits-all treatment. A consultation with a professional can help you be recommended with the most suitable procedure. The results of each treatment may vary depending on each individual and the severity of their skin condition.
Can acne go away for good?
While acne is not a permanently curable condition, many treatments may be recommended to help control breakouts, reduce inflammation, and prevent new lesions.
Need help with Acne Vulgaris?
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Dr. Kan Hun Yee
Headed by our director and sole founder, Dr Kan, who is not just a certified family physician by the College of Family Physician, as she is also a certified Aesthetic Physician with the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine.
She possess a number of qualifications which speaks to her knowledge:
- Medical Degree (University of Southampton, UK)
- Diploma in Family Medicine (National University of Singapore)
- Diploma in Dermatology (Cardiff, UK)
- Diploma in aesthetic medicine (American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine)
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