Quick Clinical Summary

Acne is a common skin condition that develops when pores become blocked by oil and dead skin cells, sometimes leading to inflammation. It can cause blackheads, whiteheads, red pimples, deeper painful lesions and post-acne marks.

At Sheen Clinic, the recommended approach should begin with a skin assessment to identify the main concern and determine suitable treatment options.

• Treatment area: Face and other affected areas, where appropriate
• Common concerns: Oily skin, clogged pores, inflamed pimples, acne marks and acne scars
• Treatment goal: Better acne control and improved skin appearance
• Approach: Personalised assessment and treatment planning
• Results: Vary according to skin condition and individual response

What Is Acne Treatment?

Acne treatment involves appropriate skin care, medical management and, where suitable, professional procedures to address acne-prone skin.

Acne can appear in several forms:

• Blackheads: Open clogged pores that appear dark.
• Whiteheads: Closed clogged pores that form small bumps.
• Inflammatory acne: Red, swollen or pus-filled pimples.
• Deep acne lesions: Painful nodules or cyst-like lesions that may have a higher risk of scarring.
• Acne marks: Flat red, pink or brown marks left after breakouts.
• Acne scars: Depressed or raised changes in skin texture following inflammation.

Active acne, post-acne pigmentation and established scars are different concerns and may require different treatment approaches.

What Causes Acne?

Several factors may contribute to acne:

1. Excess oil production

Excess sebum can mix with dead skin cells and contribute to blocked pores.

2. Clogged pores

Accumulated oil and dead skin cells can form blackheads and whiteheads, with some lesions becoming inflamed.

3. Inflammation

Inflammatory responses within the hair follicles can cause redness, swelling and tenderness.

4. Hormonal changes

Hormonal fluctuations, including those associated with puberty or the menstrual cycle, may influence oil production and breakouts.

5. Genetics and skin characteristics

Family history and individual skin characteristics may affect acne susceptibility and severity.

6. Skin-care habits and other contributing factors

Some cosmetics or heavy skin-care products may contribute to clogged pores in susceptible individuals. Picking pimples, harsh scrubbing and excessive cleansing may aggravate inflammation and increase the risk of marks or scars.

Acne is not simply caused by poor hygiene. A gentle, consistent skin-care routine is generally preferable to aggressive cleansing.

Potential Benefits of Acne Treatment

Depending on the individual's condition and selected treatment, acne management may aim to:

• Reduce active breakouts and inflammation.
• Help manage clogged pores and excess oil.
• Reduce the formation of new acne lesions.
• Minimise the risk of permanent acne scarring.
• Improve the appearance of some post-acne marks.
• Support healthier skin-care habits.
• Improve skin comfort and confidence.

Results depend on the type and severity of acne. No treatment can guarantee completely clear skin or prevent every future breakout.

Acne Treatment Options

The most appropriate approach depends on whether the main concern is active acne, clogged pores, acne marks or scars.

1. Skin Assessment and Skin-Care Guidance

A professional assessment helps identify the type and severity of acne. Gentle cleansing, suitable moisturising and daily sun protection can support skin health and reduce unnecessary irritation.

2. Topical Acne Treatments

Suitable topical products or prescription treatments may be considered to address clogged pores and inflammation. Some ingredients can cause dryness, irritation or increased sun sensitivity, so they should be used according to professional advice.

3. Oral Acne Medication

Selected cases of persistent or more severe acne may require prescription medication. A clinician should assess medical history, possible side effects, medication interactions and pregnancy-related considerations where relevant.

4. Professional Acne Procedures

Certain professional procedures may be considered for suitable patients. The choice depends on the skin condition, current inflammation, skin tone and treatment risks. Not every procedure is appropriate for active acne.

5. Acne Mark and Scar Management

Flat dark marks and textural scars require different considerations. Pigmentation-focused care may help selected marks, while depressed or raised scars may require a separate assessment and treatment plan.

Treatment availability and suitability should be confirmed during consultation. A procedure is not always necessary, and more treatment does not automatically mean better results.

Who May Benefit from an Acne Assessment?

A consultation may be helpful if you experience:

• Frequent or persistent breakouts.
• Blackheads and whiteheads.
• Red, inflamed or painful pimples.
• Dark marks after acne.
• Acne that does not improve with basic skin care.
• Early signs of scarring.
• Acne that affects your confidence or daily comfort.

Deep, painful acne or acne that is beginning to scar should be assessed early to help reduce the risk of lasting skin changes.

When Should Acne Be Medically Assessed?

Seek professional advice if you have deep or recurring painful lesions, rapidly worsening acne, persistent irritation from products, or suspected acne scarring.

Some acne-like bumps may be caused by other skin conditions. Sudden severe breakouts or symptoms that do not improve may require further assessment.

If an acne product causes severe swelling, blistering or significant pain, stop using it and seek medical advice. Prescription acne medication should be used only with appropriate medical supervision.

What Happens During an Acne Consultation?

At Sheen Clinic, a personalised assessment can follow these steps:

1. Assess: Review acne type, severity, skin sensitivity, marks and scars.
2. Identify: Consider contributing factors, previous treatments and relevant medical history.
3. Plan: Discuss appropriate options, expected benefits, limitations and potential risks.
4. Treat: Proceed with a suitable plan after assessment and informed consent.
5. Review: Monitor skin response and adjust the plan when necessary.

The goal is to address the main skin concern without unnecessary procedures or excessive irritation.

Recovery and Expected Results

Recovery and improvement timelines depend on the treatment selected.

• Topical treatments: Improvement may take several weeks or longer.
• Professional procedures: Temporary redness, sensitivity, dryness or peeling may occur, depending on the method.
• Acne marks: Dark marks may take weeks to months to fade.
• Acne scars: Textural scars may need a separate treatment plan and may improve gradually rather than disappear completely.
• Ongoing care: Acne can recur, so continued skin care and follow-up may be helpful.

Avoid squeezing pimples, use products appropriate for your skin and follow aftercare instructions. Daily sun protection can help reduce the risk of post-acne marks becoming more noticeable.