Let’s talk about acne and spots

Acne is a skin condition that commonly affects teenagers and young adults between the ages of 11-30. However, it is by no means limited to this age group as some people may experience acne in their later years.

What exactly is acne?

It occurs when the sebaceous glands produce too much sebum. The excess sebum mixes with dead skin cells to form a plug in the follicle.

‘Whiteheads’ are bulges caused when the blocked follicle is closer to the skin surface. Alternatively, if the plugged follicle is open to the skin it will form a ‘blackhead’.

Why do we get acne?

Acne is commonly linked to hormonal changes such as puberty, pregnancy and even menopause, but it can start at any age. It can often run in families too.

Other possible triggers for acne breakouts include: 

• Cosmetic products
• Certain medication
• Smoking

Myth busting

“Acne is a sign of poor hygiene”

Most biological reactions that cause acne start beneath the skin, so the cleanliness of the skin can often have little effect on your acne.

It is however, very important to follow a good skincare regime. ZO Skin Health is our go-to skincare brand. It has a wide range of products suitable for acne prone skin to help combat bacteria and reduce excess oil. 

“Acne is caused by a poor diet”

Research has yet to find any foods that are directly linked to acne. Eating a healthy, balanced diet is recommended because it is good for your general health.

“Sunbeds and sunbathing can improve your spots”

There is no evidence that sun exposure or using sunbeds can improve acne. In fact, over exposure will increase your risk of skin cancer and many acne medicines can make your skin more sensitive to light. We recommend that everyone wear SPF 50 all year round.

“Squeezing spots gets rid of them faster”

As tempting as this may be, squeezing or picking spots is a big no-no. This may make symptoms worse and can even result in scarring.

Our tips for acne sufferers 

• Do not ‘over wash’ your skin. This can actually make your symptoms worse. Cleansing your skin twice a day is perfectly adequate. Double cleansing each time is great for the skin
• Do not use very hot or very cold water on the affected area, as this may irritate the skin
• If you like to wear make-up, find yourself water based cosmetic products there are ‘non comedogenic’. That means they are less likely to block pores
• Always remove your make up before bed

How can we help?

Here at the Dr Tanja Phillips Medical Aesthetic Clinic, we offer a simple and effective laser treatment for acne and spots in general. We use an award-winning medical grade laser with photo selective absorption and controlled delivery of heat, that reduces the inflammation associated with acne and destroys overactive sebaceous glands.

Patients will notice an immediate reduction is redness and acne will be less active after treatment. Spots will be visibly smaller and calmer straight after the treatment session. In addition you will also notice a significant improvement in the skin’s overall texture and tone.

We are also specialists in ZO Skin Health, an outstanding range of products designed to improve your skin’s overall health as well as work on specific problems and concerns from acne to sun damage and wrinkles. The ZO range has a specific treatment protocol for both active acne and acne prone skin. We offer free consultations for skin health so why not book an appointment at the clinic and give us the opportunity to create a tailor-made skin care routine for you. You will leave with a skin care routine to improve your skin that you can use at home, without the need for expensive facials.

If you have further questions about acne, our acne treatments or if you would like to book in for a free consultation, contact us on hello@tanjaphillips.com or call us on 07495 125247.