Acne

Influence #1: Hormones
For the majority of acne sufferers, outbreaks begin at puberty because the body begins to produce hormones called androgens. These hormones cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge, which is a natural part of the body’s development but for acne sufferers these glands are over stimulated. Androgens are also responsible for acne flare-ups associated with the menstrual cycle and, on occasion, pregnancy.

Influence #2: Oily Skin
When the sebaceous gland is stimulated by androgens, it produces extra sebum (oil). Sebum mixes with common skin bacteria and dead skin cells that have been shed from the lining of the follicle. While this process is normal, the presence of extra sebum in the follicle increases the chances of clogging and can cause acne. Stress levels have also affected sebum production and can increase severity of acne.

Influence #3: Bacteria
The bacterium Propionibacterium acnes, (P. acnes for short) is present on all skins and is part of the skin’s natural sebum maintenance system. Once a follicle is plugged, P. acnes bacteria multiply rapidly, creating the chemical reaction we know as inflammation in the follicle and surrounding skin.

Influence #4: Inflammation
When you are exposed to unwanted bacteria your immune system sends in an army of white blood cells to attack. This is why pimples can be red, swollen and painful. The inflammatory response is different for everyone, but studies have shown that it is especially strong in adult women.

Fortunately, you have options! There are many kinds of acne treatments available. Like you, acne is highly individual and response to treatments does vary from person to person. Often several treatments are recommended in combination. We offer an extensive range of acne treatments and will advise on the most suitable procedure for you and your skin.

Recent studies seem to indicate that yellow light (585nm), is effective in vivo at targeting the bacteria that causes acne. These Broadband IPL light sources offer shorter wavelengths for optimum surface bacteria destruction, whilst also getting to the deep-seated bacteria existing in pustules and papules and damaging the sebaceous glands themselves. In this way we can control Acne.