Top Acne Tips & Treatment by a Singapore Dermatologist – Acne… Why you don’t have to live with it

Why do I get acne?

Acne occurs when the oil glands under the skin, known as sebaceous glands, become clogged with sebum, an oily substance. This process is known as inflammation, and it is often genetically determined. Hence, if you have a family history of acne, you are at high risk.

A normal amount of sebum usually keeps the skin healthy. Your oil glands become active once you reach adolescence due to hormones and this is when acne usually starts. When clogged, bacteria grow in the glands, and leads to bumps, swellings and visible blackheads and whiteheads on the skin’s surface.

Why do I tend to get acne on my chest, back and neck? 

These areas have the highest numbers of oil glands and are acne-prone. Acne is not the only condition that can cause that. A fungal infection, known as pityosporum folliculitis, can also cause a similar condition. If you are developing bumps over these areas, it is important to see your dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment to prevent worsening and possible scarring.

As an adult, is it possible to still struggle with breakouts? 

Acne can still affect adults. In fact, many adult females suffer from acne breakouts around the chin especially during certain times of their menstrual cycle. This should be differentiated from other conditions such as perioral dermatitis, which may look similar but is treated differently.

Is there a cure for acne, or do I just wait to outgrow it?

Acne can and should to be treated early to prevent worsening, secondary infections and scarring which may be permanent. It is definitely a fully treatable condition that no one should have to live with. Acne has an impact on one’s emotional well-being, and it is especially crucial during adolescent years and this should not be ignored. Severe forms of acne can result in bleeding, pus and more serious infections, a condition known as acne fulminans, which can result in complications.

What treatments are available for acne?

Under proper dermatologist care, acne can be fully treated with the correct medications, creams and light treatments. For patients who prefer not to be on oral medications, laser therapy is a safe and effective acne treatment method too. Ablative resurfacing can effectively reduce acne scarring. Blue light, a type of laser therapy is designed to treat acne when it is active. Blue light at high energy levels reduces the Propionibacterium acnes burden, leading to improvement of acne.

In addition to treatment, prevention against future acne breakouts are also crucial. Diet and proper skincare are also important factors in contributing to one’s acne condition. Therefore, holistic counselling with specific advice about how to manage your condition is important.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Dr.TWL Dermaceuticals (@drtwlderma) on Mar 22, 2019 at 11:18pm PDT

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Meet with Dr. Teo Wan Lin, accredited dermatologist at TWL Specialist Skin & Laser Centre for a thorough consultation and a full skin examination to control your acne condition over the long run.

To book an appointment with Dr. Teo, call us at +65 6355 0522, or email appt@twlskin.com. Alternatively, you may fill up our contact form here.