Acne is a very common skin disorder affecting around 85-95% of individuals at some point in life. It is caused by several factors, including clogging of the hair follicles, excess oil production, bacteria, and hormones.

Acne can manifest in different ways. Lesions such as comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), papules, pustules, nodules and cysts most commonly occur on the face, neck, chest, shoulders and back.

Acne can be disfiguring and emotionally upsetting. It can also cause permanent scarring, therefore acne should be treated as early as possible. There is no solid evidence that acne is associated with any food.

There are various treatments for acne. Controlling acne is an ongoing process and treatment often takes time. It is important to be patient and follow all instructions to achieve the best possible results. The goals of acne therapy are to eliminate painful cysts, improve appearance and self-image, and prevent scarring. Topical products containing benzoyl peroxide, tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene, salicylic acid, glycolic acid or antibiotics may be recommended. More severe cases of acne may require oral medication such as antibiotics, hormonal treatment or Accutane, the most potent acne medication.

The cause of adult acne is thought to be multifactorial including stress, environmental toxins, hormonal changes and the use of certain comedogenic products. Therefore, it is essential to carefully select cosmetic products that do not worsen acne.

Acne treatments available at elements

Fraxel - Prior to the development of this new laser technology, acne scar treatments were poor and limited. This laser is viewed by most dermatologists and plastic surgeons as the best treatment for acne scars. It is a safe, non invasive laser that improves scars, texture, pigmentation with minimal downtime. This laser also works effectively to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and reverse signs of ageing.

BBL - It offers safe, effective, non-invasive and pain-free treatment for moderate inflammatory acne. In the treatment, light creates an environment that the bacteria cannot survive in. The treatment is suitable for adults, teens and children suffering from acne and looking for an alternative to drugs or antibiotics or an adjunct to skin care programs.

Microdermabrasion - is a superficial type of treatment using very fine laser cut diamond crystals to remove the dead outer layer of the skin resulting in a smoother skin surface.

Epidermal Peels - are topical preparations including lactic acid, glycolic acid and salicylic acid which act to improve acne, skin surface texture, superficial scarring and help to eliminate oil plugs to decrease blackheads.

Medical Skin Care Program - is a customized at home daily regimens consisting of medical grade skin care products to optimize treatment affects and maintain good results.