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Understanding Acne

Acne is a common skin condition that primarily affects the hair follicles and oil glands in the skin. It can occur anywhere on the body but is most seen on the face, chest, back, and shoulders. 

Acne is characterised by the following features: 

  • Pimples. Acne typically presents as pimples, which can take several forms, including:
    • Whiteheads: Closed clogged pores with a white appearance.
    • Blackheads: Open clogged pores with a dark, black appearance. 
    • Papules: Small, red, raised bumps. 
    • Pustules: Red bumps filled with pus. 
    • Nodules: Large, painful, solid lumps beneath the skin’s surface. 
    • Cysts: Painful, pus-filled lumps that can be deep within the skin. 
  • Inflammation. Acne is often accompanied by varying degrees of inflammation, leading to redness and swelling around the affected areas. 
  • Excess oil production. One of the primary factors contributing to acne is an overproduction of sebum (skin oil) by the sebaceous glands. Excess oil can clog hair follicles and lead to the formation of pimples. 
  • Bacterial involvement. Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria are naturally present on the skin’s surface. When hair follicles become clogged, these bacteria can multiply and contribute to inflammation and the development of pustules and cysts. 
  • Hormonal influence. Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or when taking certain medications, can influence sebum production and contribute to acne. 
  • Genetic factors. A family history of acne can increase the likelihood of developing the condition. 

Acne severity can vary from mild, with a few occasional pimples, to severe, with widespread and persistent outbreaks. It can also lead to the formation of acne scars in some cases. 

It’s important to note that acne is a common skin issue that affects people of all ages, but it is most prevalent during adolescence and young adulthood. 

Effective treatments are available, ranging from over-the-counter products to prescription medications and procedures like laser treatments. 

Consulting with a dermatologist or healthcare professional can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on the type and severity of acne. 

Acne Treatment Options

Here at Contour Clinics, we ensure that a range of options are available for the treatment of active acne, so that we may utilise the best method for your unique needs.

The best starting point is usually a skin analysis with one of our Skin & Laser Therapists to determine the type of acne you have, your skin type and complexion, and the severity of your acne in its current state. 

Topical and Oral Treatments 

Very common options for treating acne include the use of different topical and oral treatment modalities. 

The main topical prescriptions are retinoids +/- benzoyl peroxide products, which are usually recommended to those with mild-to-moderate acne. 

Then there are systemic topical treatments, which come in the form of topical skin products containing a high concentration of retinoids, antibiotics and hormonal control. 

Oral antibiotics are also often used for the treatment of active acne, specifically a type of antibiotics called tetracyclines, with lymecycline or doxycycline usually prescribed.

LED Acne Treatments

Blue LED light therapy is a non-invasive and effective method for treating acne. It works by targeting the Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria that contribute to acne development. 

When exposed to blue LED light in a specific wavelength range, P. acnes bacteria release molecules called porphyrins that generate free radicals, ultimately destroying the bacteria.  

This treatment reduces inflammation and redness associated with acne, helping to clear existing blemishes and prevent future breakouts. 

Blue LED light therapy is safe, painless, and can be used alone or in combination with other acne treatments. It offers a promising solution for individuals seeking a gentle and effective approach to managing their acne. 

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are a dermatological treatment used to address acne by promoting skin exfoliation, clarification and renewal. 

The treatment involves a dermatologically formulated chemical solution, often containing salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or trichloroacetic acid, being professionally applied to the skin. This solution gently removes the top layer of damaged skin, unclogs pores, and encourages the growth of new, healthier skin cells. 

Chemical peels can reduce acne blemishes, including whiteheads and blackheads, while also improving skin texture and tone. They may also stimulate collagen production, minimising the appearance of acne scars over time. 

Chemical peels are available in various strengths and can be customised to suit individual skin types and acne severity. 

Contour Clinics Acne Treatments

So, which treatments can help to rid your complexion of acne?

Fortunately, advancement in cosmetic medicine enables several treatment modalities to be used for treating acne, such as acne-specific chemical peels, medical-grade facials, and LED blue light therapy. 

Sometimes we will combine these modalities for a truly customised approach for your own personalised treatment plan. 

Contour Clinics offers multiple options for treating active acne: 

The Signature Facial 

Our entry-level walk-in facial treatment is designed to be an excellent starting point for the treatment of active acne, as it provides gentle yet deep cleaning action. The experience involves a deeply clarifying exfoliation, circulation-boosting and collagen-promoting oxygenation facial, and a moisture-restorative peptide-infused mask. There is zero downtime required and it’s suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone skin. 

Blue LED Light Therapy 

LED phototherapy is the perfect non-invasive treatment for skin rejuvenation. Pleasant warming lights of varying wavelengths stimulate skin cell renewal, rejuvenate tired skin, improve skin tone and eliminate acne-causing bacteria. 

We currently offer a package of LED light therapy sessions to add even more value to your journey towards acne-free skin. Your complete acne reduction package includes 8 sessions of alternating red/blue LED light therapy, complimentary post-treatment serum, and complimentary add-on infrared light therapy. 

See more details here for The Complete Acne Treatment 8-Session Pack

The Acne Corrector Peel 

This chemical peel is formulated specifically for the treatment of active acne, helping you to regain control over stubborn acne and achieve a clear complexion. 

Specially formulated to target acne-prone skin, this advanced peel treatment uses non-physical exfoliation to purify your skin without risk of irritation, unclog pores, reduce inflammation and improve overall skin texture. 

Where You Can Book Acne Treatment Near You

Contour Clinics provides solutions for acne at all our clinic locations; Newtown, Five Dock, Castle Hill and Miranda for acne treatment Sydney, and Stones Corner for acne treatment Brisbane. 

We welcome patients for a complimentary, no-obligation consultation with one of our Skin & Laser Therapists, so you can learn more about what your treatment will involve, and what to expect from your results. 

Here at Contour Clinics, treatment for active acne is performed only by highly experienced and qualified Skin & Laser Therapists, who are skilled and intensively trained in administering laser therapies with precision, skill and utmost safety.

If you’re looking for a solution to the anguish of active acne, then contact us online or call 1300 233 803 to arrange a free consult appointment. 

The Contour Clinics Difference

All treatments at Contour Clinics are performed only by highly experienced, fully qualified and skilled Skin & Laser Therapists, who treat each patient as an individual and will customise treatments to your unique requirements.

Your Acne Treatment at Contour Clinics comes with: 

  • Fully qualified and experienced Skin & Laser Therapist
  • Complimentary assessment for active acne 
  • Personalised treatment plan
  • Results-oriented approach 
  • State-of-the-art technology 
  • Follow-up to review results 

 Talk to our friendly patient care team! We are happy to answer any questions you may have about our Treatments for Active Acne. 

 Book a consultation with us! Consultation at Contour Clinics is comprehensive, complimentary and obligation-free. 

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