Acne Buntingford

What is acne?

Acne is a chronic skin condition caused by overactive sebaceous glands. It varies from blackheads to deep, painful inflamed lesions. Acne usually shows during adolescence, or in adults, it can be the result of hormonal imbalances, genetics, or improper skin care.

What type of acne do I have?

Acne is classified according to the different types of skin lesions:

• Comedonal acne, the presence of only open and closed comedones.
• Papulopustular acne.
• Nodular cystic acne.

Acne vulgaris – is the most common form of acne. Also called adolescent acne it shows during puberty. It usually affects the nose, forehead, and chin. Acne vulgaris mostly resolves on its own after a few years, around the time of adulthood.

Acne septicaemia – pustular cysts that heal and leave unsightly scars.

Acne conglobate – more common in men. In addition to the typical acne vulgaris lesions, purulent cysts and deep infiltrates can affect the skin, which can merge and leave large, uneven scars. In can show on face, in the armpits, groin, or buttocks.

Rosacea – develops from vascular disorders and seborrhea. It affects women more than men, and between the ages of 40 and 60. It doesn’t have comedones. The lesions are more prominent with stress, tanning, heavy foods, alcohol, and endocrine disorders.

Cystic acne – cysts filled with pus and sometimes even blood. It leaves marks on the skin like scars, spots, and discoloration.

Hormonal acne – similar to acne vulgaris. It affects over 25’s, hormonal in origin.

Neuropathic acne – affects face and body and shows as blackheads, pimples, and eruptions. It has a psychological background, as the person affected believes that picking and removing skin lesions is the only effective solution and is the most important element of facial care.

Papular acne – lumps or bumps on the skin, firm to touch and around 1 cm in size. Affects face and body, particularly the T-zone and back. Difficult to remove, cause discomfort, and can be itchy.

Back acne – treating back and shoulders acne is difficult, but doable. Proper skincare and professional treatments help eliminate blemishes, scars, and discolouration.

Can acne scars be treated?

Some types of acne scarring can be improved with professional skin treatments. The most suitable option depends on the type and depth of the scarring.

Can I have a facial if I have active acne?

Sometimes. Treatment needs to be adapted to the condition of your skin. Inflamed or irritated acne may require a different approach.

How often should I have acne treatments?

This depends on your skin, the treatment selected and how it responds. A personalised treatment plan can be discussed during your consultation.

Can chemical peels help acne skin?

Certain professional chemical peels can help with congestion, excess oil, uneven texture and post acne marks when appropriately selected for your skin.

Can acne be treated in adults?

Yes. Adult acne is common and can often be improved with an appropriate skincare and treatment plan.

Will acne treatments get rid of my acne permanently?

There is no single treatment that permanently prevents all acne. Professional treatments can help improve the look and condition of acne skin and support a consistent skincare routine.

Can acne leave dark marks?

Yes. Acne can leave post inflammatory pigmentation, particularly after inflamed spots. These marks can gradually fade and may be helped by appropriate skincare and professional treatments.

What acne treatments do you offer at Beauty Bar?

Depending on the condition of the skin and type of acne treatments that may be considered include:

• Chemical peels
• Biorepeel
• Professional deep cleansing treatments
• Congestion and extraction treatments
• Microneedling, particularly for suitable post acne scarring or rosacea in some cases
• Mesotherapy

Should I squeeze my spots before treatment?

It is better to avoid squeezing or picking spots, as this can increase inflammation and the risk of marks or scarring.

Who can get acne?

80% of young people between the ages of 12 and 24 suffer from acne, and it’s also common in people over 30.

What causes acne?

Acne can be influenced by hormones, excess sebum, blocked pores, inflammation, genetics and lifestyle.