DrD Guide to Acne Vulgaris Treatment

Acne vulgaris, commonly known as pimples or breakouts, is a common skin issue affecting people of all ages. It’s more than just a teenage problem—it can affect anyone and have a big impact on confidence and wellbeing. But don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to manage and improve acne symptoms. In this guide, we’ll explore simple skincare tips, different medications, and modern treatments to help you tackle acne effectively.

Understanding Acne Vulgaris

Acne happens when your skin’s pores get clogged with oil and dead skin cells. This can lead to different types of pimples like blackheads, whiteheads, and sometimes deeper cysts or nodules. Several factors trigger the development of acne, including hormonal changes, genetics, lifestyle, diet, stress, and certain medications.

Here are the four main reasons why acne happens:

• Excess Oil Production: When your skin produces too much oil, it can clog your pores.
• Clogged Pores: Abnormal keratinisation leads to build up of dead skin cells and oil in your pores, creating an ideal environment for acne-causing bacteria to thrive.
• Bacterial Overgrowth: Certain bacteria on your skin, like Cutibacterium acnes (C.acnes), can make acne worse.

 

• Inflammation: This is your body’s response to clogged pores and bacteria, causing redness, swelling, and more pimples.

Treatment Options

 

1. Skincare Tips

• Gentle Cleansing: Wash your face twice daily with a mild cleanser to remove excess oil, dirt, and dead skin cells. Always remove makeup before sleeping. Avoid harsh scrubbing, as it can irritate the skin and exacerbate acne.
• Moisturize: Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated
• Non-comedogenic Products: Non-comedogenic products are less likely to clog pores and contribute to acne formation.
• Sun Protection: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
• Hands Off: Avoid picking, squeezing, or popping acne lesions, as this can lead to scarring and further inflammation. Hydrocolloid acne patches can help to protect against touching of acne lesions.

 

2. Medications

• Topical Medications: Over-the-counter and prescription treatments with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinoids, and antibiotics can help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and kill acne-causing bacteria.
• Oral Medications: In cases of moderate to severe acne, oral medications such as antibiotics, oral contraceptives (for females), isotretinoin, and hormonal treatments (spironolactone) may be prescribed by a medical doctor.

Medication	Excess sebum production	Abnormal keratinization	C.acnes colonization	Inflammation
Topical Benzoyl Peroxide
Topical Retinoids
Topical Antibiotics
Topical Azelaic Acid
Topical Salicylic Acid
Oral antibiotics
Oral isotretinoin
Oral hormonal therapy

 

3. Physical treatment

• Injectable Medications: Sometimes, injections of corticosteroids can quickly reduce inflammation in big, painful pimples.
• Comedone Extraction and Chemical Peels: These can be used alongside medications to clear out clogged pores and improve skin texture.

 

4. Energy-Based Devices

• Light-based therapy: Blue light therapy kills acne-causing bacteria, while red light therapy reduces inflammation and promotes skin repair.
• Laser therapy: Nd: YAG lasers target bacteria, shrink oil glands, and stimulate collagen production, making them effective for treating acne and acne scars.
  
• Microneedling Radiofrequency Therapy: This combines microneedling to stimulate collagen with radiofrequency energy to tighten skin and reduce inflammation.

Seeking Professional Advice

It is essential to talk to a medical doctor for personalized advice on treating your acne. They can assess your skin, recommend the best treatments, and help you find a skincare routine that works for you.

In conclusion, while acne vulgaris can be a challenging condition to deal with, there are numerous treatment options available to help you achieve clear, healthy skin. By following simple skincare tips, using effective medications, and considering modern treatments, you can manage acne and achieve clearer, healthier skin. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our professional medical doctors at Dr D Aesthetics for expert advice and support on your journey to clearer skin.

Orchard: LIAT Towers, 541 Orchard Road #20-01 (S238881)
6333 4401
WhatsApp +65 8881 1966