Acne Management

According to World Health Organisation criteria ^[1], acne is defined as a chronic disease based on its clinical characteristics. It is estimated to affect 9.4% of the global population, making this a prevalent and most common skin disorder.

Acne, or acne vulgaris, is a very common skin disorder that affects more than 85% of teenagers ^[2] and it typically starts at puberty and slowly resolves in the 20s, although there are some who continue to have acne way into their 40s and 50s.

Acne is a multifactorial skin issue caused by overactive oil glands, hormones, and bacterial infection. When oily secretions under the skin block the tiny opening of hair follicles, it can lead to the development of spots such as blackheads, whiteheads, and cysts on the skin. Acne commonly occurs on the face, neck, back, and chest.

Depending on the severity of the condition, acne symptoms may vary. Acne can be classified as mild, moderate or severe, and the type of treatment you will require will largely depend on the type of acne you have and where.

Acne occurs when oil and dead skin cells clog up the pores. This combination causes swelling, leading to infection and pus. Aside from puberty, genetics, hormonal imbalance and using oil-based skin products are also factors behind its appearance. Acne typically appears on the face, chest, and back.

Factors that influence the development and severity of acne include genetics, androgens (hormones), smoking, excess sweating and stress. Medical conditions such as Cushing's syndrome and polycystic ovary syndrome are known to induce acne eruptions. Lithium, bromides, and iodides can also trigger acne.

Severe acne can leave significant scarring.

Cystic pimples are inflammatory acne which involves more white blood cells rushing to the area, and because there are more enzymes in that area, it leads to more destruction. The skin then tries to desperately heal itself, which results in a scar. There is a major difference between acne marks and scars.

Acne marks are usually pigmentation left after the acne is healed. Acne scars leave an indent on the skin as follows:

During the consultation, Dr Ivan Puah will assess your clinical condition and grade the severity of your acne condition to determine the appropriate treatment for you. It is tailored based on the following:

• The type of acne
• Severity of acne
• Your psychological state (how it affects you)

If you are suffering from acne, you would probably have gone through periods of extremely low self-confidence and feelings of despair. Indeed, acne can affect sufferers physically (acne scars) and psychologically.

At Amaris B. Clinic, we have seen many patients who have spent a lot of money trying a variety of "over-the-counter" acne treatments and skin care with little success. Needless to say, this can be extremely frustrating.