What is Acne and How is it Formed?
Acne is an abnormal skin condition that causes blemishes on the face, chest, or back, in the form of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, or comedones. It occurs when sebaceous glands – glands in the follicles of the skin that produce sebum, an oily substance, to prevent skin from drying out – become overactive, resulting in the overproduction of sebum.
Pores become clogged when there is an overproduction of sebum and buildup of dead skin cells. Bacteria can then get trapped inside the pores and multiply, causing swelling and redness, eventually resulting in acne. While the effects of acne are generally not serious, it can cause scarring.
What causes Acne?
Acne can be caused by hormonal changes, most commonly seen in teenagers undergoing puberty, or in women experiencing challenging menstrual cycles or pregnancy.
Acne can also form due to a change in lifestyle habits, such as wearing comedogenic cosmetics that tend to cause the formation of comedones, experiencing stressful situations, or stopping the intake of birth control pills.
There are a number of myths surrounding the formation of acne:
Diet: Greasy foods are often blamed for causing acne, but there is little scientific evidence to prove a relationship between such foods and the formation of acne. However, dairy-related products have been scientifically proven to aggravate acne formation.
Dirty Skin: Acne is commonly believed to be caused by dirt or uncleanliness, but the bacteria that causes acne – p. acnes – does not come from dirt. Rather, p. acnes occur naturally in healthy skin follicles, but if too much accumulates in clogged pores, the bacteria will multiply, eventually leading to an acne outbreak.
How We Treat Active Acne in Singapore
Treating active acne early can help reduce the likelihood of scarring later on. At LS Aesthetic Clinic, Dr. Kok assesses the type and severity of acne present, whether hormonal, cystic, or comedonal, before recommending a suitable approach.
- Topical and oral medications to reduce inflammation and control breakouts
- Light therapy (e.g. I-Clear or Multiclear) to target acne-causing bacteria
- Chemical peels to help clear clogged pores and reduce breakout frequency
- Intralesional corticosteroid injections for larger, more inflamed lesions
Your treatment plan will depend on your skin type, acne severity, and any previous treatments you’ve tried.
Types of Acne Scars
Acne scars form differently depending on how the skin heals after inflammation, and identifying the type of scar is an important first step in choosing a suitable treatment.
- Ice-pick scars: Narrow, deep, pitted scars that extend into the skin, often caused by severe or cystic acne.
- Boxcar scars: Broad, box-like depressions with sharply defined edges, typically found on the cheeks and temples.
- Rolling scars: Shallow, wave-like depressions with sloping edges, caused by bands of scar tissue pulling on the skin’s surface.
- Hypertrophic and keloid scars: Raised, thickened scars that form when the skin produces excess collagen during healing.
Most patients have a combination of scar types, which is why Dr. Kok assesses each case individually before recommending a treatment approach.
Say Goodbye to Scars: Laser Acne Scar Removal in Singapore Clinic
Can I squeeze my Acne?
No! Squeezing your acne pushes bacteria deeper into the skin, causing further inflammation and scarring.
Effective Acne Scar Treatment Options in Singapore
If you’re looking for acne scar removal in Singapore, it’s best to consult a qualified doctor.
Dr. Allan Kok is the Medical Director of LS Aesthetic Clinic. He obtained his medical degree from the National University of Singapore in 1984, and later became the first Singaporean doctor to complete the Diploma in Practical Dermatology at the University of Wales, Cardiff, under Professor Ronald Marks. Dr. Kok is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery.
At LS Aesthetic Clinic, Dr. Kok assesses each patient’s acne scarring individually before recommending a treatment plan suited to their skin type and scar type.
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Acne scar treatments can vary from the following, depending on your skin condition:
- Skincare products
- Topical medications
- Light therapy (e.g. I-Clear or Multiclear)
- Laser treatments
- Chemical peels
- Oral medications
- Incisions via drainage & surgery
- Interlesional corticosteroid injections
Quick Fix: Got a Big Event but Dealing with Acne?
Interlesional corticosteroid injections can reduce acne size and inflammation relatively quickly. This is suitable for more severe acne.
What can I expect during the Procedure?
Every acne scar treatment plan at LS Aesthetic Clinic begins with a consultation, where Dr. Kok examines your skin, identifies the types of scars present, and discusses which treatment options are suitable for your skin condition.
On the day of treatment, a numbing cream is typically applied to the treatment area beforehand to improve comfort. Depending on the treatment selected, such as laser resurfacing, chemical peels, or intralesional injections, sessions generally take between 20 and 45 minutes. Most patients return to their daily activities shortly after, though some redness or mild swelling in the treated area is common for a day or two.
Because acne scars vary in depth and type, more than one treatment session is usually needed, and Dr. Kok will advise on a suitable interval between sessions during your consultation.
Common Myths About Acne Scar Removal
Acne scar removal is surrounded by misconceptions that can often mislead individuals. Here are some common myths:
Myth: Acne scars can fade entirely overnight.
Fact: While some treatments show quick results, most require multiple sessions for noticeable improvement. Patience is key.
Myth: Only expensive therapies work.
Fact: Affordable and effective treatments are available but should be selected based on your skin type and scar severity.
Myth: Home remedies are as effective as clinical treatments.
Fact: While home remedies may help improve skin texture, professional treatments are often required for significant scar reduction.
Choosing the Right Acne Treatment in Singapore Clinic
When it comes to acne treatment, selecting the right clinic is crucial. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed decision:
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Clinic
Qualifications and Expertise of Dermatologists
Ensure the clinic is staffed by certified dermatologists or skin specialists with extensive experience in acne treatment.
Treatment Options Offered
Look for clinics that offer a wide range of solutions, such as laser therapy, chemical peels, or microneedling, tailored to your skin type.
Clinic Reputation
Read online reviews and testimonials to gauge patient satisfaction. Word-of-mouth recommendations can also be valuable.
Transparency in Pricing
Choose a clinic that provides clear and detailed information about treatment costs, including any follow-up sessions.
Hygiene and Safety Standards
Visit the clinic to ensure their facilities meet high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
Questions to Ask During Consultation
What treatments are available for my specific acne or acne scars?
Understand which treatments are most suitable for your skin condition.How long will it take to see results?
Knowing the expected timeline helps manage your expectations.Are there any side effects or downtime associated with the treatment?
Learn about potential risks and recovery requirements.Will my treatment plan be customized to my skin type?
Ensure the clinic adopts a personalized approach rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.Why choose LS Aesthetic Clinic?
Safe and effective treatment of your acne condition begins with a consultation. Dr. Kok understands the distress acne can cause and will examine your skin to give an accurate assessment of your skin condition, followed by a personalised treatment regimen.
At LS Aesthetic Clinic, we have a wide range of acne scar treatments in Singapore, ranging from medications to lasers and light therapy.
Call us at +65 6738 4700 or email us at enquire@lsaestheticclinic.com for more enquiries. We are conveniently located at #10-04 Wisma Atria Office Tower, 435 Orchard Road Singapore 238877.
FAQ For Acne Treatment
The timeline for visible results varies depending on the treatment modality and individual skin response. Some patients may notice improvements within a few weeks, while others might require several months of consistent treatment to achieve desired outcomes.
Laser treatments are generally well-tolerated. A topical numbing cream is typically applied to the treatment area to enhance comfort during the procedure.
While complete removal of acne scars is challenging, various treatments can significantly reduce their appearance, leading to smoother and clearer skin.
The number of sessions needed depends on factors such as the severity of the scars and the specific laser technology used. A personalized treatment plan is essential for optimal results.
Potential side effects vary with each treatment, including redness, swelling, and temporary discomfort. Discussing these with your healthcare provider to understand the risks and benefits is crucial.
Yes, most acne scar treatments can be customized to suit different skin types. However, consulting with a qualified practitioner is important to determine the best approach for your specific skin condition and type.
It depends on the type of treatment. For some treatments like Fractional laser, avoiding makeup for at least 24-48 hours is advised to allow your skin to heal properly. Always follow your doctor’s post-treatment care instructions.
Yes, maintaining a healthy skincare routine, protecting your skin from sun exposure, staying hydrated, and avoiding picking at your skin is crucial. These habits can help optimize the results of your treatment.
Acne scar removal can be safe for sensitive skin by experienced professionals. Many clinics offer tailored treatments explicitly designed for delicate skin. Common options include non-invasive methods like chemical peels with mild formulations, microneedling, or fractional lasers adjusted to minimize irritation. Always consult a qualified dermatologist to determine the best approach for your needs.