Acne

Acne is a condition that affects up to 90% of the population at some time. Although it is primarily of cosmetic concern, it can cause huge emotional problems. There are a number of factors that lead to acne such as hormonal imbalance, stress, make-up and possibly diet.

4 steps are involved in the development of Acne:
1. Increase production of Sebum (oily substance secreted by glands in the skin)
2. Blockage of skin pores by dead skin cells.
3. Invasion of the blocked pore by bacteria
4. Inflammation

The skin surface has lots of small sebaceous glands just below the surface. These glands make sebum- a natural oil that keeps the skin smooth. The tiny pores in the skin allow the sebum to come to the surface. Hairs also grow through these pores.

If prone to acne, hormones trigger the sebaceous glands to produce excess sebum. At the same time, the dead skin cells lining the openings of the hair follicles (the tubes that hold the hair) aren't shed properly and clog up the follicles.

This causes a build-up of oil in your hair follicles forming mild acne. For some people, acne doesn't progress beyond this. However, in other people the build-up of oil in the hair follicles creates an ideal environment for a bacterium to grow under right conditions

They feed off the sebum and produce substances that cause an immune response. This inflames the skin and creates the redness associated with spots. In more severe inflammatory acne, cysts develop beneath the skin's surface. If these cysts rupture, the infection can spread. This can result in scars. Acne should be treated early and adequately. If left untreated can lead to scars.

At Viva clinic, we believe in a less aggressive approach using a variety of treatments which are well targeted and properly formulated treatment products, non-laser treatments and prescription treatments.

Suitable Treatments for Acne:

OBAGI ClenziDerm
OBAGI NU-DERM
Nd:YAG laser acne reduction

For before / after photos click here