Acne: Treatment, Types, Causes and Prevention

/ Medsana News / By

What is acne and who gets it?

Acne is a common skin condition that often arises during puberty, but can affect adults too. In fact, around 85% of adolescents have acne, and  50% of 20-29 year olds. It most commonly affects the face, but can present on the neck, chest, shoulders, back and upper arms. Acne spots and bumps can present as whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, cysts or nodules. These can be painful and if severe, can cause scarring.

Acne can have a profound psychological impact on the individual, contributing to low self esteem, depression and anxiety. As such, we have developed numerous treatment options including topical creams/gels, oral medications and procedural therapies. Book an appointment with one of our GP’s online or call 07 3852 4878 to discuss a treatment option suited to you based on the presentation of your acne and your personal preferences.

What causes it?

Sebum is an oily substance produced by the skin to keep it protected and hydrated. Hormones can contribute to an excessive production of sebum, which is why adolescents are particularly susceptible to acne as their hormonal changes during puberty can cause an increase in sebum production. This is also why people may notice acne flare ups before menstruation. Acne appears when the pores of the skin get blocked with sebum and dead skin cells. Bacteria in the skin can become trapped in these pores and contribute to inflammation of the area which can cause redness, pain and swelling. Other factors which may contribute to acne include:

  • Genetics
  • Skin trauma – repetitive scrubbing with exfoliants, soaps, detergents or other agents
  • Pregnancy
  • Stress
  • Diet
    • Dairy has been linked to the formation of acne
    • High glycaemic foods have been linked to the formation of acne
  • Oil-based make-up or skin products

What are the treatment options?

Depending on the nature of the acne, there are a variety of treatment options, including:

  • Low dose contraceptive pills – can be used to regulate the hormones that contribute to acne formation
  • Retinoids – a vitamin A derivative that can be applied topically to the affected area or taken by mouth as a pill. Retinoids help by unclogging pores and preventing new blockages from forming
  • Antibiotics – these work by controlling the bacteria on the skin that may contribute to acne formation
  • Microdermabrasion, light or laser therapy

Consultation with one of our doctors can help determine the best treatment plan for you. If acne persists, you can be referred on to see a dermatologist, who specialises in skin conditions.

What can you do to help prevent or manage acne?

  • Avoid popping pimples – this makes scaring more likely and may lead to an infection
  • Cleanse with a mild, soap free liquid face cleanser no more than twice a day. Avoid harsh exfoliators and products containing alcohol
  • Wash your hands often, especially before applying products to the face. Avoid touching your face unnecessarily
  • Avoid excessive sun exposure
  • Keep hair clean and off the face
  • Choose make-up for sensitive skin – avoid oil-based products and always remove make-up before sleeping
  • When shaving, soften the skin and hair with warm water first and use shaving cream and an electric shaver
  • Clean spectacles regularly
  • If acne affects the back, chest and shoulders – opt for light, breathable clothing to let the skin breathe

If you suffer from acne, book an appointment with one of our GP’s on 07 3852 4878 to discuss a skin treatment plan. We understand the impact a skin condition can have on your self-esteem and mental health so don’t forget to mention how the acne is impacting you.

Sources

All About Acne, Acne Causes, https://acne.org.au/causes/, accessed 16th July 2021

 All About Acne, Acne Treatments, https://acne.org.au/treatments/, accessed 16th July 2021

 Health Direct, Acne, https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/acne, accessed 16th July 2021

Medical News Today, What you need to know about acne, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/107146#_noHeaderPrefixedContent, accessed 16th July 2021

 UpToDate, Acne vulgaris: Management of moderate to severe acne, https://www-uptodate-com.ezp01.library.qut.edu.au/contents/acne-vulgaris-management-of-moderate-to-severe-acne?search=acne&source=search_result&selectedTitle=2~150&usage_type=default&display_rank=2#H1312600026, accessed 16th July 2021

 UpToDate, Acne vulgaris, Overview of management, https://www-uptodate-com.ezp01.library.qut.edu.au/contents/acne-vulgaris-overview-of-management?search=acne&source=search_result&selectedTitle=1~150&usage_type=default&display_rank=1, accessed 16th July 2021

 

This article was written by April Stevens BSc. MD student. 

17th July 2021.

 

Timely PCR Swab Service

Available between 8:30am – 9am

 

  1. Short Telephone Consult with the patient – bulk billed if Medicare eligible. Private fees with no Medicare rebates apply if the patient has not seen us in the last 12 months.
  2. The doctor will request a respiratory panel for viruses and bacteria (where clinically appropriate).  For example, Influenza, Covid, RSV, mycoplasma, pertussis and so forth.  Not all possible infections are on this panel.  The doctor may decline the request if it is not appropriate and direct the patient accordingly.
  3. Normal fees will apply if more than swabbing is requested.  Clinical examination and other requests requires a normal consultation at another time.
  4. Patient arrives at the car park next to Building 10 before 11am.  Or takes the pathology request to another 4Cyte collection centre.
  5. Patient calls reception to notify of their arrival so the 4Cyte Pathology Collector can gown up and go the patient’s car to swab the patient.
  6. PCR swab gets sent to 4Cyte.  The processing times varies according to workflows.
  7. 4Cyte will SMS the patient with the Covid results.  Positive PCR test results for other respiratory viruses or bacteria are not named.  A negative PCR result doesn’t mean the patient is infection free.  These swabs narrow down the possibilities and guide appropriate treatments.
  8. An appropriate appointment needs to be made for results in person, via video or via phone.  Normal fees applies for these consult.  Normal fees applies if the doctor calls the patient for further clinical advice and management.  
BOOK ONLINE NOW