Acne

Acne is one of the most common skin condition that affects individuals of all ages, causing physical and emotional distress. Dermatologists play a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of acne, employing a range of strategies to address this complex skin issue.

Our Dermatologists are in a unique position of not being able to prescribe traditional medical treatments, but are also pioneers in the use of lasers and procedures for the treatment of acne and acne scarring.

Understanding Acne

Acne is a multifactorial skin disorder characterised by the development of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), papules, pustules, nodules or cysts. These lesions primarily occur in areas rich in sebaceous oil glands, such as the face, chest, and back. Several factors contribute to the development of acne, including excess sebum production, clogged hair follicles, bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes), inflammation, and hormonal fluctuations.

Dermatological Assessment

The first step in treating acne involves a thorough dermatological assessment. Dermatologists evaluate the type and severity of acne, considering factors such as age, skin type, and any underlying medical conditions. This assessment helps determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to the individual’s unique needs.

Topical Treatments for Acne

Topical treatments are often the first line of defense against acne.

In our clinic, you will be guided by our team about the most appropriate cleansers, moisturisers, sunscreen and makeup to improve and prevent the worsening of your acne.

We will prescribe a range of skin care and topical agents that will help nourish the skin, reduce inflammation, exfoliate and improve your acne.

Our dermatologists will also prescribe a variety of topical medications designed to address different aspects of the acne pathology. Some of these may be required to be compounded at a specialist chemist.

Oral treatments for Acne

Dermatologists may prescribe specialist level oral medications to address systemic factors contributing to acne, resolving the acne long term. They are in a unique position to prescribe some Vitamin based medications which are exclusive to Dermatologists.

There are a number of different oral medications that may assist with acne.

Oral antibiotics help reduce inflammation and the impact of the bacteria (P. acnes) that is involved in acne.

Hormonal interventions such as selected oral contraceptive pills, may assist in modulating hormonal changes in females, to reduce flares of acne.

Vitamin A based tablets are the most intensive oral agents for use in acne, and is exclusively prescribed by dermatologists. Our team will guide you through this option, including your duration of treatment, monitoring, and side effects.

Procedural Interventions

Dermatologists may also incorporate various procedural interventions to address acne lesions and improve skin texture. These include:

AviClear: This is the most revolutionary treatment for acne in over 4 decades, and allows a targeted laser to destroy the over-active oil glands that cause acne. Dr Manoharan was the first Queensland dermatologist to use this laser, and his and Dr Cranwell’s experience in creating tailored plans to accomodate for your acne needs and minimise flares will be vital for the best AviClear outcome.

Extraction: Our team can manually remove blackheads and whiteheads using specialised tools in a controlled and sterile environment. This can help prevent further inflammation and scarring.

Chemical Peels: Chemical peels involve applying a solution to the skin that exfoliates the superficial skin layer, promoting cell turnover and unclogging pores. Different types of peels, such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid peels, may be used based on the individual’s skin type and acne severity.

Laser and Light Therapies: Apart from Aviclear, other laser and light treatments may be used for acne, and will be discussed by your team. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) involves applying a photosensitising agent to the skin, followed by exposure to light, effectively targeting acne lesions. Vascular lasers and Intense pulsed light can also help reduce inflammation in acne and inflamed scarring.

Combination Therapy

In many cases, our dermatologists will opt for combination therapy, integrating multiple treatment modalities to address different aspects of acne pathology simultaneously. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance the efficacy of treatment and minimize the risk of resistance to medications. For example, a dermatologist might combine a topical prescription with an oral antibiotic and further pair a chemical peel with a targeted laser treatment.

Skincare Routine

Daily skincare routines help to manage acne effectively. This includes suitable cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreens tailored to the individual’s skin type. We partner with our skin care group, The Skin Network (www.skinnetwork.com.au) to provide you with the appropriate skincare to navigate through your acne journey.

Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments

Acne treatment is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and our dermatologists understand the importance of ongoing monitoring and adjustments to the treatment plan. Regular follow-up appointments allow our team to assess patient response to treatment, make necessary adjustments, and address any emerging concerns or side effects. This collaborative approach between dermatologists and patients ensures optimal outcomes and enhances the overall management of acne.

Effective Acne Treatments at Dermatology Clinics Australia

At Dermatology Clinics Australia, we specialise in dermatological care and offer effective acne treatments. Our dermatologists have almost two decades of treating acne, understand the impact acne can have on your quality of life and are committed to providing the best possible care.

When you visit our clinic, you can expect:

• Thorough consultations and evaluations to determine the best course of action for your acne treatment. Our staff will take the time to understand and record your specific symptoms, triggers, and medical history.
• Customised dermatologist treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and preferences. We recognise that every patient is unique, and we will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that suits your lifestyle and goals.
• Access to advanced therapies and prescription medications that can provide relief from acne symptoms. Dr Manoharan and our team are on the cutting edge of acne treatments, and have the earliest access to many lasers and energy based devices that are available for the treatment of acne.
• Education and support on managing and preventing acne in the long term. Our dermatologists will provide you with practical tips and advice on skincare routines, lifestyle modifications, and environmental triggers to minimise the impact of acne on your daily life.
• A compassionate and caring environment where your concerns are heard and addressed. We strive to create a positive patient experience, ensuring that you feel comfortable and well taken care of throughout your journey with us.