Acne

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions affecting millions of people worldwide. While it’s often associated with adolescence, adults can also experience breakouts. At UniqSkin, we are dedicated to helping you understand acne and find effective treatment options.

Causes of Acne

The etiology of acne is a combination of many factors :

1. Disorder of keratinization, which leads to blockage of the duct of the sebaceous gland.
2. Increased sebum production from the sebaceous glands
3. Overgrowth of bacteria, such as Propionibacterium acnes
4. Increased local inflammation
5. Genetics

Aggravating factors in acne

Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Several factors contribute to this process, including:

• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal disorders can increase oil production.
• Genetics: A family history of acne.
• Stress
• Certain Medications: Some drugs can contribute to breakouts as a side effect.
• Fagesorogenic cosmetics
• Diet: Some studies suggest that high-glycemic foods and dairy may exacerbate acne for some individuals.

Clinical features

Acne lesions appear in areas where the sebaceous glands are most active (face, back, chest and shoulders). The lesions are divided in the following categories:

1. Non-inflammatory lesions: Open comedones (blackheads)/ Closed comedones (whiteheads)

2. Inflammatory lesions: Papules/ blisters/ nodules/ cysts

3. Scars / Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation:

   • Boxcar scars

     A type of atrophic scar. They are broad depressions in the skin that usually appear box-like in shape.They have well defined edges. Most often found on the lower cheeks and jaw.

   • Icepick scars

     Also a type of atrophic scar. They are narrow and deep like small needle punctures. The most challenging to treat.

   • Rolling scars

     Depressions in the skin that have a wave-like texture with not well defined edges. They are formed when fibrous bands of tissue pull the epidermis down towards the subcutaneous tissues below. This type will get worse as you age and your skin loses elasticity.

   • Hypertrophic / keloid scars

     Thick, wide, raised scars that can occur when during the healing process, the body produces excess collagen. In rare cases, keloid scars can develop. They mainly appear in the back, shoulders and chest.

   • Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation

     The darkening of the skin following an inflammation.

Treatment options for acne

At UniqSkin, we offer a variety of treatment options tailored to your individual needs:

• Topical treatments: Creams and gels containing ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, azelaic acid or retinoids
• Oral medications: Antibiotics, isotretinoin or hormonal treatments may be prescribed.
• Deep medical cleaning: Can be performed on face and body, suitable for all ages.
• Chemical peelings: Most commonly used for acne are salicylic, azelaic or mandelic acid.
• Diamond microdermabrasion: A non-invasive procedure. With a special medical device (Ecopeel) only the outermost layer of the skin is exfoliated. At the same time, surface pollutants, dead cells and accumulated sebum are removed and an instantly cleaner, smoother and brighter skin is revealed.
• Skincare routine

Treatment options for acne scars

• Microdermabrasion with crystals (Ecopeel)
• Dermapen 4: The multiple micro-injuries caused to the skin in combination with the substances used,leads to the activation of collagen production and the gradual correction of scars. In our clinic, we use the authentic Dermapen 4 device.
• Fractional laser: Can be combined with prf for even better results.
• Chemical peels
• Hyaluronic acid fillers: Used to fill atrophic scars.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is acne only a teenage problem?

   While acne is most common during adolescence, adults can experience it as well. Factors like stress, hormonal fluctuations, and certain medications can lead to adult acne. This type is usually mild to moderate, but it is more resistant. It is found mainly on the chin, around the mouth and on the neck.

2. What can I do to prevent acne?

   To help prevent acne, maintain a consistent skincare routine using no comedogenic products, avoid touching your face, and keep hair products away from your skin.A balanced diet and lower stress levels can also contribute to a healthier skin.

3. Will acne scars go away?

   While some acne scars may fade over time, others can become more obvious or severe as your skin loses its natural elasticity and tightness. Treatments like laser therapy, microdermabrasion, dermapen and chemical peels can help improve the appearance of scars.

Conclusion

Understanding acne is the first step in managing it effectively. At UniqSkin, we are here to help you and find the best treatment option for your skin.