Acne and Acne Scars

Acne is a common skin condition characterised by the presence of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and sometimes cysts or nodules. It typically occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to the development of lesions. Acne commonly appears on the face, chest, back, and shoulders.

Acne scarring is the aftermath of severe or prolonged acne. It manifests as uneven, textured areas on the skin which can be depressed (known as atrophic scars), raised (known as hypertrophic scars), or as a rippled effect to the skin (rolling scars). These scars are the result of damaged tissue following inflammation, and often persist long after the acne itself has cleared.

The impact of acne and its resulting scarring on a person’s appearance and well-being can be significant. Beyond physical discomfort, individuals may experience emotional distress, low self-esteem. The visibility of acne and acne scarring can lead to social anxiety and hinder one’s confidence in personal and professional interactions.

Several factors are usually involved in the development of acne. A combination of excess oil, dead skin cells and bacterial overgrowth will combine, clogging the pores and leading to inflammation. Hormonal fluctuations, genetics, diet and certain medications can also play a role as these factors may influence the overproduction of oil (sebum). Additionally, picking or squeezing acne lesions can lead to and exacerbate scarring in the future. 

Addressing acne and its scarring often involves a multi-faceted approach. Topical treatments, oral medications, and dermatological procedures like laser therapy or chemical peels often require regular, long-term use. At Bank Medispa we may advise a suitable skincare regime to a patient with acne-prone skin, which can be supported through regular in-clinic treatments such as Dermalux LED Light Therapy. And for acne scarring, treatments including dermal fillers and SkinPen Microneedling can restore the skin’s smooth even surface.