Acne is a chronic inflammatory skin disease of pimples and spots on the face, back, chest, neck, and shoulders that affects 88% of adolescents in Singapore, and 20% of adults still suffer from it.
Many people believe that pimples will clear up on their own if you just let them run their course. however, there are various factors that continue to contribute to acne persisting to adulthood. Some of the factors include changing hormones, stress, environment, menstrual cycles, oil-based products, medications, diet, and lifestyle.
The emotional impact of acne
Overactive sebaceous glands, abnormal skin cell turnover, and the rapid proliferation of bacteria cause acne. Pimples and scars affect more than just appearance. It makes them feel less attractive, confident, and happy. Studies have also shown that those with acne scars are more prone to develop depression and anxiety. These create strain in social interaction and stunted communication.
Acne affects people of all ages. Like teens, adult acne negatively affects their lives—regardless of how severe their pimple is. Therefore, doctors recommend treating acne early and aggressively, especially during the first year of acne development.
Unfortunately, many parents with teenagers suffering from acne decide to wait to treat acne until the children are much older. As the majority of parents are reluctant to start young children on oral medication. So, what are the other treatments available to treat acne?
What are the types of acne treatments?
Acne is a complex skin disease caused by several factors, from skincare products and hormones to lifestyle and genetics. Moreover, not everyone’s acne can be treated the same way. We spoke to Ensoul Medical Clinic about what other pimple treatments you can consider if you have tried multiple treatments and over-the-counter medications without success.
There are many acne treatments on the market ranging from oral to topical to energy-based devices, and we are here to help you understand how each one can help your skin.
Topical Medication
Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), the bacteria responsible for acne breakouts, can be reduced through topical pimple treatment. Additionally, it normalizes skin cell shedding and reduces inflammation.
Here are some common topical treatments:
- Benzoyl Peroxide
- Topical Retinoids
- Azelaic Acid
Chemical Peels
Medical skin peels such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid, trichloroacetic acid and lactic acid are used to treat pimples. The customized peels help to target the epidermal layer and eliminate dead skin cells, deeply lodged debris in the pores, and acne-causing bacteria. They also stimulate epidermal growth and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores.
RF Microneedling Treatment
This treatment uses microneedles and radiofrequency energy to target acne scars and acne, while also helping to improve the overall skin quality and texture. It can also help reduce oil production, minimize the appearance of acne scarring and lighten acne marks (PIH).
Laser Therapy
There are multiple lasers available to treat pimples and scarring, and our doctors at Ensoul Medical Clinic use a blend of different lasers to unclog pores, reduce sebum production, and clear existing breakouts. Other benefits include balancing uneven skin tone and texture and lightening Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Oral Medication
Oral medication is one of the best ways to treat resistant acne. Oral antibiotics can kill acne-causing bacteria and also help to reduce skin inflammation. Isotretinoin is another prescription acne medication that shrinks the sebaceous glands responsible for producing oil, which in turn causes fewer or no pimples.
Why You Should Not Wait to Treat Pimple
Doctors know that the longer you wait to treat your pimple properly, the higher the chances of getting permanent acne scars and PIH. Acne scars are caused by inflammation of acne blemishes. The acne pore swells, and a breakdown occurs in the wall of the pore. Acne scars are formed by a breakdown in the skin’s barrier in the acne pore. Indented scars result when tissue is lost, while raised scars result when there is too much collagen.
AGING WITH ACNE SCARS
When the skin sags, fibrotic acne scarring provides support for the sagging skin, resulting in irregular cascades of scarring in the skin. Treatment of acne and scarring early can lead to smoother results.
Conclusion
Acne is a complex skin disease with causes that go beyond cosmetic concerns. Early treatment can help prevent new scars and eliminate some pre-existing scars. It is also much more affordable. Other benefits include preventing severe acne breakouts, pimple scars, red or brown marks, and lasting damage to individual self-esteem and emotional well-being.Â