Acne

Along with ridiculous hairstyles and dubious fashions, the assumption is often that acne is confined to the teenage years.

Sadly, the fact is that acne affects over 90% of the population at some point in their lives - and it's just as distressing and painful, whether it hits in your teens or a few decades later.

Acne can be a very distressing condition and one that is not necessarily restricted to teenage years; in fact it can affect people of all ages. Traditional treatments can range from products, which can be bought over the counter to prescription antibiotic creams and tablets.

We recognise that everyone's acne is different, so the Royal Tunbridge Wells Skin & Laser Clinic will tailor a programme to your needs and concerns directly.

We also don't believe that a single therapy treatment whether it be based on medication, exfoliation or topical creams is sufficient to tackle the complex nature of acne.

What causes Acne?

Acne Vulgaris is a chronic, but common, inflammatory condition of the pilosebaceous duct (a duct is a tubular bodily canal or passage, especially one for carrying a glandular secretion. Pilosebaceous means of or relating to a hair follicle and its sebaceous glands. Acne is caused by the over activity of the sebaceous glands. Normally, these will secrete oily substances (sebum) onto the skin to help protect it, but a sensitivity to testosterone (a naturally occurring blood hormone found in both men and women), can trigger an over production of sebum.

At the same time, hair follicles (the tubes that hold the hair) can be clogged up by dead skin cells not being shed properly. Together, these two factors combined can cause a build-up of oil in the hair follicles, leading to the formation of blackheads and whiteheads. For some, this leads to a constant battle with papules and pustules, which can leave scarring and embarrassing spots on the skin.

What's the solution?

Go into any chemist or department store, and you'll find hundreds of acne blitzing products, yet the chances are that only a small percentage will deliver on their promises and sometimes even make your skin condition worse.

So, how is the Royal Tunbridge Wells Skin & Laser Clinic different? We work with each individual client to formulate a specific, targeted treatment plan including both treatments at the clinic and products for you to use at home. Together, they work quickly to give you the fresh, clear, smooth complexion of your dreams. Whether you are seeking treatment for congestion, active acne or acne scarring we are here to help rebuild your confidence. Laser combined with IPL is one of the most effective treatments for acne and here is some information as to why.

IPL & Laser Treatment

IPL light destroys the bacteria that lives within the skin and causes acne as well as targeting the overactive sebaceous glands that cause outbreaks of spots. The heating of the skin causes shrinkage of the inflamed sebaceous glands and helps to prevent overproduction of sebum. You will need a patch test 24 hours prior to IPL to ensure your skin is suitable for treatment.

How does it work?

A pulse of light is delivered into the skin which lasts less than a second. The light energy is absorbed by the skin and heats it up very quickly. You may feel a sharp, short-lived pinprick sensation. Most patients describe the discomfort as moderate and acceptable. Redness and a slight warming sensation are normal after treatment, to help soothe the skin a cold compress can be applied.

Am I suitable for treatment?

Everyone can have this treatment unless you have a dark or tanned skin. Pregnant women or patients taking the acne drug Roaccutane are also not suitable for this treatment.

At the Royal Tunbridge Wells Skin & Laser Clinic we offer a wide range of treatments and products to combat acne and reduce scarring including:

• Obagi Clenziderm products
• Chemical peels
• Blue LED Light

We may suggest combining a number of options including Laser or Intense Pulsed Light treatments with antibacterial Chemical Peels (including Glycolic Acid, Benzyl Peroxide & Salicylic Acid) or a Microdermabrasion to unblock pores in order to stimulate healthy skin renewal and help prevent future outbreaks.

You will also be given skin care product advice to help enhance your treatment in order to obtain the best sustainable results, in the shortest possible time.

Why not pop by and book your FREE Visia Skin Analysis to find out how your acne is affecting the deeper levels of your skin.

Book your FREE Acne consultation today.