A personal plan that finds the type and cause of your spots and calms them without leaving marks.
Acne, or spots, is inflammation of the sebaceous glands and hair follicles. It is not a lack of hygiene or a “teenage phase”: acne is a treatable skin disease. Early and correct treatment both calms the breakouts and prevents marks and scars.
Types of acne
Comedonal acne: open (blackheads) and closed (whiteheads) comedones
Papulopustular acne: red bumps and pus-filled spots
Nodulocystic acne: large, painful lesions deep in the skin that leave marks
Hormonal acne: breakouts on the chin and jawline that flare with the menstrual cycle
Cosmetic and mechanical acne: breakouts caused by unsuitable products and pressure or friction on the skin
Why it happens
Four main mechanisms drive acne: excess sebum production, follicles clogged with dead skin cells, bacterial growth and inflammation. Hormonal changes, genetics, stress, some medicines and the wrong skincare also play a part.
How treatment is planned
Examination: I identify the type, severity and cause of the acne and order tests if needed
Topical treatment: preparations applied to the skin that reduce inflammation and clogging
Oral treatment: for moderate and severe cases, under a doctor’s supervision
Procedures: chemical peels and cleansing as an add-on to treatment when needed
A daily care plan: a cleanser, moisturiser and SPF that suit your skin
What not to do
Do not squeeze spots: the inflammation goes deeper and leaves marks and scars
“Home remedies” such as alcohol lotions, toothpaste and baking soda dry out and irritate the skin
Washing several times a day with a harsh scrub does not reduce breakouts; it makes them worse
Do not stop treatment on your own as soon as you see results
Acne clears with patience and the right plan. Squeezing only leaves marks.