Understanding acne: causes, types, and the most effective treatment options at Self London

Introduction

Acne is more than just a cosmetic concern—it is a condition that affects millions globally, impacting both physical appearance and emotional well-being. At Self London, we take a holistic and scientifically backed approach to treating acne, ensuring our patients receive the most effective care tailored to their specific needs. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the underlying causes of acne, the different types, and the most advanced treatment options available at Self London, including the innovative AviClear laser therapy.

What causes acne?

Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil (sebum) and dead skin cells, but its development is influenced by a variety of factors:

1. Hormonal changes

Hormones, particularly androgens, play a pivotal role in acne development. Increased androgen levels during puberty can lead to overactive sebaceous glands, resulting in excess sebum. Hormonal fluctuations related to menstruation, pregnancy, and stress can also trigger acne in adults.

2. Genetics

Your genetic makeup can determine your skin type and its predisposition to acne. If your parents had acne, there is a higher likelihood that you will experience it as well, particularly if your skin is oily or sensitive.

3. Diet

While the relationship between diet and acne is still debated, there is growing evidence that certain foods, such as those with a high glycaemic index or dairy products, may exacerbate acne. These foods can trigger hormonal responses that increase sebum production, leading to breakouts.

4. Stress

Stress is a well-known trigger for acne. When you are stressed, your body produces more cortisol, which can increase sebum production and inflammation, worsening acne.

5. Skincare products

Using products that are not suitable for your skin type, particularly those that are comedogenic (pore-clogging), can contribute to breakouts. Choosing non-comedogenic, oil-free products is essential for maintaining clear skin.

6. Types of acne

Acne manifests in different forms, each requiring a specific treatment approach:

7. Comedonal acne

Comedonal acne includes blackheads and whiteheads, which form when pores are clogged with sebum and dead skin cells. It is non-inflammatory but can lead to more severe forms if not managed properly.

8. Inflammatory acne
   Inflammatory acne includes papules and pustules, which appear as red, swollen bumps. These forms of acne occur when bacteria infect clogged pores, causing inflammation.
1. Cystic acne

Cystic acne is the most severe type, characterised by large, painful cysts beneath the skin’s surface. This type often results in scarring and requires more aggressive treatment strategies.

2. Hormonal acne

Hormonal acne typically presents as deep, cystic breakouts around the jawline and chin, linked to fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly androgens.



Effective acne treatments at Self London

At Self London, we offer a range of treatments tailored to the specific type and severity of your acne. Our goal is to not only treat the visible symptoms but also address the underlying causes, ensuring long-term skin health.

9. AviClear: The revolutionary laser treatment

AviClear is a state-of-the-art laser treatment specifically designed to target and reduce sebum production by addressing the sebaceous glands. By reducing oil production, AviClear prevents new acne lesions from forming, offering long-term relief without the side effects associated with oral medications. This non-invasive treatment is suitable for all skin types and requires minimal downtime, making it an ideal choice for those seeking effective, sustainable results.

10. Patient Success Story: KL

KL, a 28-year-old woman, struggled with severe cystic acne for years. After undergoing three AviClear sessions at Self London, she saw a dramatic reduction in breakouts. “AviClear has been life-changing—I finally feel confident in my skin.”

11. Laser treatments for acne and scarring

At Self London, we offer advanced laser treatments to manage both active acne and the scars it can leave behind:

1. Fractional laser resurfacing: This treatment uses laser energy to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen production and improving the appearance of acne scars. The result is smoother, more even-toned skin.
2. BroadBand Light (BBL) therapy: BBL therapy targets acne-causing bacteria, reduces inflammation, and treats post-acne pigmentation, offering a comprehensive approach to both active acne and its aftermath.
3. Radiofrequency microneedling: This advanced technique combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to reach deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and improving skin texture. It is particularly effective for reducing the appearance of acne scars and improving overall skin tone.
12. Patient Success Story: SJ

SJ, a 35-year-old man, dealt with persistent acne scars for years. After fractional laser treatments at Self London, he noticed significant improvements. “My skin is smoother, and the scars are much less noticeable.”

13. Holistic and supportive care

Acne can impact more than just your skin; it can affect your mental health and overall well-being. At Self London, we take a holistic approach to treatment, offering:

1. Nutritional counselling: Our experts provide guidance on dietary changes that can help manage acne from within. Adjusting your diet to reduce high-glycaemic foods and dairy may contribute to fewer breakouts and better skin health.
2. Mental health support: Recognising the emotional toll that acne can take, we offer support to help patients manage stress and build confidence during their treatment journey. This includes addressing the psychological impact of acne, which can be as significant as the physical symptoms.
3. Customised skincare regimens: We develop personalised skincare routines using medical-grade products tailored to your skin type and acne severity, ensuring that your daily regimen complements your professional treatments and enhances your results.
14. Prescription medications

For patients requiring additional support, we offer prescription treatments that include:

1. Topical retinoids: These are effective in unclogging pores and preventing new acne lesions by increasing cell turnover, which helps to prevent the clogging of hair follicles.
2. Oral antibiotics: Used to reduce bacteria and inflammation, particularly in cases of moderate to severe acne. Antibiotics can be effective for short-term control but are often combined with other treatments for long-term management.
3. Hormonal treatments: For those with hormonal acne, treatments such as birth control pills or spironolactone can help regulate hormone levels and reduce breakouts. These treatments work by balancing androgen levels, which in turn reduces sebum production.
15. FAQs and common concerns

To help you make informed decisions about your acne treatment, here are some common questions we receive:

16. How does AviClear compare to other laser treatments?

AviClear is unique in that it specifically targets the sebaceous glands, reducing sebum production and preventing future breakouts. Unlike other lasers that might only address surface-level concerns, AviClear offers a deeper, more long-lasting solution to acne.

17. Is AviClear suitable for all skin types?

Yes, AviClear is designed to be safe for all skin types, including those with darker skin tones, who may be more susceptible to pigmentation issues with other laser treatments.

18. How soon will I see results from AviClear?

While some patients notice improvements after the first session, the most significant results are typically seen a few weeks after completing the full treatment series. As the sebaceous glands produce less oil, patients experience fewer breakouts and clearer skin.

19. Can I combine AviClear with other treatments?

Yes, AviClear can be combined with other treatments such as topical retinoids, oral medications, and other laser therapies to enhance results. During your consultation, we’ll develop a personalised treatment plan that may include multiple modalities to address your specific needs.

20. What should I expect during my first consultation at Self London?

During your first consultation, our dermatologists will conduct a thorough assessment of your skin, discuss your medical history, and explore any concerns you may have. This helps us create a tailored treatment plan that addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes of your acne.

21. Why Self London is the right choice for acne treatment

At Self London, our approach to acne treatment is grounded in expertise, innovation, and patient-centred care. Here’s why we stand out as London’s leading choice for acne treatment:

1. Expertise: Led by Dr. Anjali Mahto, a renowned consultant dermatologist, our clinic combines in-depth medical knowledge with the latest advancements in dermatology to deliver exceptional care.
2. Comprehensive care: We don’t just treat acne; we offer a full spectrum of skin health services, from prevention and treatment to scar management, ensuring long-term results and patient satisfaction.
3. Patient-centred approach: Every patient is unique, and so is their acne. That’s why we offer personalised treatment plans tailored to individual needs, ensuring that each patient receives the best possible care.
4. Innovation: As one of the first clinics in Europe to offer AviClear, we are at the forefront of acne treatment innovation, providing our patients with access to the latest and most effective solutions available.
22. Conclusion

Acne can be a challenging condition, but effective treatment is within reach. At Self London, we offer a comprehensive, patient-centred approach to acne treatment, combining advanced technology like AviClear with holistic care to deliver outstanding results. If you’re ready to take control of your acne and achieve clear, healthy skin, schedule a consultation today. Let our expert team guide you on your journey to skin confidence.