Acne Treatment in Singapore by Synergy Aesthetics Clinic

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What is acne?

Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It often results in the formation of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and other types of lesions on the skin, primarily on the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders. Acne is most prevalent during adolescence due to hormonal changes, but it can affect people of all ages.

What causes acne? 

  1. The main factors contributing to the development of acne include:
  2. Excess oil production (sebum): Overactive oil glands can lead to the accumulation of oil on the skin, promoting the formation of acne.
  3. Clogged hair follicles: When dead skin cells mix with excess oil, they can block hair follicles, creating an environment for the growth of acne-causing bacteria.
  4. Bacteria: Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is a type of bacteria that naturally lives on the skin. When hair follicles are blocked, it can multiply and contribute to inflammation and the formation of acne.
  5. Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormones, particularly during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and certain medical conditions, can increase oil production and contribute to the development of acne.
  6. Genetics: There is a genetic component to acne, and individuals with a family history of the condition may be more prone to developing it.

Acne can manifest in various forms, including:

  1. Whiteheads: Closed plugged pores.
  2. Blackheads: Open plugged pores with the dark surface resulting from oxidation.
  3. Papules: Small, red, raised bumps.
  4. Pustules: Pimples filled with pus at their tips.
  5. Nodules: Large, solid, painful lumps beneath the surface of the skin.
  6. Cysts: Deep, painful, pus-filled lumps.

How to prevent acne?

Preventing acne involves adopting a consistent skincare routine, making lifestyle adjustments, and being mindful of factors that can contribute to acne development. Here are some tips to help prevent acne:

  1. Cleanse your face: Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to wash your face twice daily, in the morning and before bedtime. Avoid harsh soaps or scrubbing, as this can irritate the skin and exacerbate acne.
  2. Moisturize: Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. Even if you have oily skin, moisturizing is important to prevent the skin from producing excess oil to compensate for dryness.
  3. Choose non-comedogenic products: When selecting skincare and makeup products, look for those labeled as “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free.” These products are less likely to clog pores and contribute to acne.
  4. Avoid touching your face: Touching your face, especially with dirty hands, can introduce bacteria and irritate the skin. Try to keep your hands away from your face as much as possible.
  5. Regularly clean personal items: Wash items that come into contact with your face regularly, such as pillowcases, towels, and makeup brushes, to reduce the risk of transferring bacteria.
  6. Watch your diet: While the link between diet and acne is not fully understood, some people find that certain foods can trigger or worsen acne. Pay attention to your diet and consider reducing intake of high-glycemic foods, dairy, and sugary items.
  7. Stay hydrated: Drinking an adequate amount of water helps keep your skin hydrated and can contribute to overall skin health.
  8. Manage stress: Stress can exacerbate acne, so finding healthy ways to manage stress is important. Practice relaxation techniques, exercise regularly, and ensure you get enough sleep.
  9. Be cautious with makeup: Choose makeup labeled as non-comedogenic, and remove it before going to bed. Consider using mineral-based makeup, which tends to be gentler on the skin.
  10. Limit sun exposure: While some sun exposure can initially improve acne, excessive sun exposure can lead to skin damage and may worsen acne in the long run. Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin.

Acne Treatment by Synergy Aesthetics 

    1. Establish a Consistent Skincare Routine:
      • Cleansing: Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to wash your face twice a day (morning and night). Avoid harsh scrubbing, as it can irritate the skin.
      • Moisturizing: Even if you have oily skin, use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.
    2. Choose Acne-Friendly Products:
      • Non-comedogenic products: Look for skincare and makeup products labeled as “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free” to avoid clogging pores.
    3. Medical Grade skincare products 
      • Medical grade skincare products exfoliate the skin, unclog pores reduce inflammation and oil secretion 
    4. Prescription Medications:
      • Retinoids: Prescription retinoids like can help unclog pores and promote skin cell turnover and scar healing. 
      • Oral Medications: In severe cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe oral antibiotics, oral anti-androgens (for females), or isotretinoin.
    5. Steroid injections: 
      • Corticosteroid injections are typically reserved for large, painful, and inflamed acne lesions, such as cysts and nodules. These injections can help reduce inflammation quickly.
    6. Laser therapy:
      • Reducing Sebum Production:  long pulse laser targets the sebaceous glands, reducing the production of sebum (skin oil). Excessive sebum production is a contributing factor to acne development.
      • Killing Acne-Causing Bacteria: yellow laser can target and kill Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), the bacteria associated with acne.
      • Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Lasers can have anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne lesions.
      • Promoting Collagen Production: Laser treatments can stimulate collagen production, which may help in improving skin texture and reducing the appearance of acne scars.
    7. Microneedle Radiofrequency (RF):
      • Reduced Sebum Production: RF energy can target sebaceous glands, potentially reducing sebum (oil) production, which is a factor in acne development.
      • Tightening Pores: The collagen-stimulating effects may contribute to the tightening of enlarged pores, common in acne-prone skin.
      • Collagen Production: Microneedle RF promotes collagen synthesis, which can improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of acne scars.
    8. Medical Facials:
      • These facials often involve more advanced techniques and may use medical-grade products to target specific skin concerns, including acne
    9. Lifestyle and Dietary Changes:
      • Healthy Diet: Some people find that certain foods can trigger or worsen acne. Consider reducing the intake of high-glycemic foods, dairy, and sugary items.
      • Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated.
      • Manage Stress: Stress can contribute to acne. Practice stress-reducing activities such as exercise, meditation, or yoga.
      • Sleep early: Adequate sleep helps regulate hormones, including those that can affect skin health. Hormonal imbalances, particularly elevated levels of stress hormones like cortisol, can contribute to acne development.
    10. Sun Protection:
      • Use sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 50 or taking oral sunblock. Some acne medications can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight.
    11. Regular Follow-up with a Doctor:
      • Remember, treating acne is often a gradual process, and it may take time(up to 3months) to see significant improvements. It’s essential to be patient and consistent with your chosen treatment plan. If you experience any severe side effects or if your acne persists, seek professional advice from a healthcare provider.