Dear Acne sufferers,

Pls look through this FAQ on Acne treatment and ask your questions.

Thanks
Alaxis


FAQ On Acne

How does Acne start?
Acne runs in the family, so look to them. They gave it to you. Think of it as if you are born with a defective pilio-sebeaous gland (pore). So you are much more prone to getting acne than people with a normal pore. This pore of yours get blocked so easily and develops comedones. After it is blocked, bacteria that lives in this pore begin to enjoy the accumulated sebum stuck inside and they start to multiply in huge numerous. As these bacteria are having a party, the body sends immune cells to fight with them, resulting in lots of inflammation. The comedone thus begins to grow into an ever increasing red swollen pustule due to the inflammation and activity. Fortunately, the body always wins this fight, so after a while, the pustule will dry up and die out. But in place, there will be a scar as a reminder. We treat acne aggressively to prevent the scars from developing. The scar is a permanent landmark on your face, it’s difficult but possible to treat – read acne scar laser treatment.

So what can help me?
I will attack acne on 3 counts. They are:
1. Prevent the pore from getting blocked.
2. Kill the bacteria.
3. Reduce sebum production.

On each count of attack there are skincare products and treatments that you can do.

1. To prevent the pore getting blocked: I will use exfliolating creams (PHA, BHA creams) daily, chemical peels treatments and carbon laser peel treatments.

2. To kill the bacteria: I will use topical or oral antibiotics daily. You can also try blue light therapy, but I don’t provide that.

3. To reduce sebum production: I will use vitamin A creams or oral vitamin A daily as well as provide laser treatments.

In addition, we can also consider using oral contraceptive pill to control the acne that’s v hormonal dependent.

So the treatment is very logical and “holistic”.

What will I use for you?
What I decide to use will depend on what you want to do as well. For some, skincare products used on a daily basis would be sufficient to make a lot of difference. For some, we need to start with treatments for the effect. Some patients just don’t want laser treatments or chemical peels, either the cost factor or the fear factor. I am flexible, as long as I am sure we are attacking the acne on the 3 broad fronts. Its mainly a matter of time and control level.

What can go wrong?
These treatments and skincare products are very safe. No worries about downtime. There are some restrictions though – sun protection while on treatment or skincare products. Chemical peels may make your skin more sensitive in the 1st 2-3 weeks.

Summary
Acne treatment is safe and effective, please don’t waste time on cosmetics or facial – they either don’t do much or make things worst – please no scratching and squeezing or you will get pigmented marks. Go get the treatment asap, most doctors would have something good. Or you can come let me see. : )