Acne and uneven Skin Texture

Acne is one of the most common, yet hardest skin problems to clear and it is not just a problem found in puberty. It is a disease that can span right the way through to adult life and for some it can be persistent.

Scarring from acne is a common occurrence following acne episodes. Fractional treatments have always been the most effective to minimize scarring of any forms. With the new generation Discovery Pico laser, treatments are now also accessible to Asian skin due to the very low percentage of PIH ( Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation) and now downtime is greatly reduced for everyone in comparison to standard fractional laser machines.

In normal circumstances, our skin’s sebaceous or oil glands will normally make oil that lubricates the surface of the skin. Acne is a result of the overproduction of oil by these sebaceous glands, inflammation and redness resulting as the pores of the skin become blocked, not only being filled with sebum, but also dead skin cells. Despite the blockage, oil continues to be produced, resulting in a swelling behind the blockage causing white heads or blackheads if the oil is exposed to air but still stuck into the pore. A perfect environment for bacteria develops leading to the larger red spots of acne.

Hormonal changes are the predominant cause of acne and should be addressed particularly in adult females. Diet and stress can also add to the burden of the skin and attempts to cover the skin with makeup can often make the condition worse.

Renude Laser Clinic provides a number of treatments and advanced technologies for acne and acne scars.

Treatments

The most effective way to treat enlarged pores is by Fractional laser. With the highest powered Pico in the world, our Pico Fractional Laser offers fractional treatments that require much less downtime due to its micro-ablative not ablative action.

A variation of our Pico Toning/Rejuvenation is ideal for reducing oil production, reducing the levels of sebum (oil) and should also reduce the symptoms of acne and the size of acne cysts and nodules. The photo-acoustic shock waves of the laser and the advanced combination of the Dicovery Pico Fractional laser reorganise the skin’s collagen resulting in tightening of the skin, improving the condition of acne scars. A specialised Fractional treatment is used for acne scars, ideal for all skin types.

Light therapy/Cold Laser Therapy

The medical grade laser we use at Renude Laser Clinic, is a super pulsed laser with blue, red and infra-red light housed within the one unit. A super pulsed laser means that it can penetrate deep within the dermis providing therapeutic healing to the targeted skin.

Low Level laser therapy has a wide range of applications of use in dermatology, especially in indications where stimulation of healing, reduction in inflammation, reducing cell death and skin rejuvenation are required.

Red light penetrates deeper into the tissues changing the action of the sebum secretion of sebaceous glands. It reduces inflammation, swelling and redness, improves lymphatic drainage and can decrease signs of scarring.

Blue Light therapy kills Propionibacterium acnes bacteria, the bacteria that causes acne, making it the ideal light therapy to help improve the condition of acne.

Expectations

Enlarged pores responds well to laser and is best with a course of three treatments 4 weeks apart. Changes can often be noticed after 4 weeks.

Our Laser protocol including Photo-Thermal ( thermal causes disinfection), Pico and Pico Fractional Laser is ideal for any acne. With cystic acne, blue light therapy is usually recommended every second day. Mild to moderate acne, we usually recommend twice weekly appointments with blue light. Low dose Roaccutane ( 10-20mg ) is tolerated with laser. If higher doses are taken, no Pico laser treatments can be performed for at least six months. A few treatments are often required for the best results. To maintain great results, follow up treatments are generally recommended once or twice a year.

Results do vary from person to person and most people do require a series of treatments. Several studies have found a significant improvement with several treatments. Like most healing treatments, it does take time. It is always important to address the cause of the condition and heal from the inside out. As acne is predominately caused from hormonal imbalances, including Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and high androgens (Testosterone), herbal remedies and bioidentical hormones can be most useful. It is important to see your health care provider to get hormone blood levels monitored carefully if pursuing this form of treatment.

No one laser can heal acne including blackheads, whiteheads and acne cysts. This is why we use different laser applications here at Renude Lase Clinic.

Following all laser treatments sunlight must be avoided for 48 hours wherever possible or a 30+ sunscreen should be used.

Skin Care, Body Care and Enzyme Exfoliation

The most effective way to treat enlarged pores is by Fractional laser. With the highest powered Pico in the world, our Pico Fractional Laser offers fractional treatments that require much less downtime due to its micro-ablative not ablative action.

A variation of our Pico Toning/Rejuvenation is ideal for reducing oil production, reducing the levels of sebum (oil) and should also reduce the symptoms of acne and the size of acne cysts and nodules. The photo-acoustic shock waves of the laser and the advanced combination of the Dicovery Pico Fractional laser reorganise the skin’s collagen resulting in tightening of the skin, improving the condition of acne scars. A specialised Fractional treatment is used for acne scars, ideal for all skin types.

More on good oils and enzymes

Vitamin E in pumpkin seed oil is necessary in maintaining good barrier function of the skin. Pumpkin seed also regulates sebum, so is great for oily skin. Zinc, an essential mineral involved in hormones and healing skin, is also present in pumpkin seeds

Tamanu Oil has mild antibacterial properties minimizing the growth of acne. The actives of canophyllol and canophyllic acid have been compared to amoxicillin, a commonly used antibiotic. Tamanu oil has also been found to be beneficial on aged scars due to its regenerative properties. Xanthones and coumarins found within the oil are potent antioxidants. Antioxidants inhibit the breakdown of cell membranes from free radicals and the xanthones have been found to reduce swelling and inflammation.

Protein destroying (proteolytic) enzymes are found in papaya and pumpkin. These enzymes stimulate exfoliation by digesting keratin and loosening the bonds between the cells. These enzymes are activated by water and are suitable for most skin types.

Salicylic acid can not only be found in mint but also is found in willow bark, wintergreen leaves and sweet birch. Salicylic acid produces less irritation and exhibits anti-inflammatory properties making it a preferred option for clients with rosacea, acne and skin sensitivities.

A few studies have been performed on the benefits of castor oil for acne skin. It is thought to disinfect the skin and kill the bacteria. Interestingly, it is often used internally for systemic fungal infections by health care professionals.

Facial scrubs or abrasive exfoliations should be avoided as these are likely to irritate and inflame the skin.

Facial toning mists containing rosemary, neem, aloe or thyme are non-drying and can be effective to help control excess oil. Astringents, often containing alcohol can unbalance the pH of the skin. As with any skin care treatment, knowledge of the ingredients is always important. Here is our blog of toxic ingredients in skin care.

It does matter what you eat.

The glycaemic index of food (GI) is very important with people afflicted by acne. Low GI food decreases insulin-like growth hormone which affects acne, growth of skin cells and skin-cell production of androgens and rate of oil production. PCOS has been found to also respond to low GI high fibre diets (fresh fruit, vegetables and beans). Organic proteins lower androgens and removing food allergens such as dairy can be beneficial. Histamine intolerance is another important condition to be aware of in the fight against acne. Zinc, a very important mineral for sexual development, menstruation and ovulation has been found to be deficient in people with high androgens and acne. There are some genetic conditions that cause the body to dump zinc regularly, so supplementation can be beneficial. The antioxidants Vitamin A and C would be other supplementation to consider.

Disclaimer The information contained on this site is general in nature and for informational purposes.

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