How To Treat Adult Acne.
With practices in Sydney, Melbourne and tri-annual residency in Paris, Melanie Grant specialises in skin.
Her clinical approach to skin health sees her tailor treatments which enhance an individual’s skin and treat complexion irregularities. This is done with state-of-the-art technology and therapeutic products and prescriptive skin regimes.
Melanie is renowned for her refined aesthetic which has made her a firm favourite with models and celebrities. A leading authority in her field, Grant is the preferred choice of several of Australia’s leading cosmetic doctors who view her skills as an essential complement to their own procedural work.
Here, she discusses the cause and treatments of adult acne and takes us through a client successful treatment through laser.
Q & A With Melanie Grant
What is acne?
Acne is the result of bacteria infecting blocked hair follicles. Triggers, such as fluctuating hormone levels, can cause an increase in oil production by the sebaceous gland which is attached to the hair follicle. The excess oil clogs the shaft, creating a plug. The follicle then swells as more oil is produced beneath the plug and becomes inflamed and subsequently infected with bacteria. This results in acne.
What are its main causes?
Common causes include improper or infrequent cleansing of the skin, diet, hormones, stress, skin care products or genetic predisposition. I believe most cases of adult acne is caused by stress and hormone fluctuations.
Why do adults get acne?
Some people have acne prone skin which continues into adulthood. Others may never have suffered from acne and can experience it for the first time in their 30s, 40s or even 50s. This is known as "adult onset acne” Causes can range from fluctuating hormone levels before or after a period; during pregnancy or menopause and when starting or stopping birth control pills. Stress can cause an acne flare up as our bodies can respond to stress by producing more androgens. These hormones can stimulate the oil and sweat glands, resulting in blemishes. Undiagnosed medical conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome can be a cause and you should always seek advice from a doctor.
Skin care products can also be a cause - I call this product acne, and I see it often. Using too many products, products that are too heavy, occlusive or rich for simply the wrong products for your specific skin type and condition.
Does diet play a roll in acne?
Absolutely. Gut inflammation can wreak havoc on our skin. Try avoiding inflammatory foods such as dairy, refined sugar, processed foods, alcohol and coffee. Keep a food diary to monitor your skins response to certain foods. Increase your intake of water, green leafy vegetables, oily fish, nuts, avocados and berries.
What are the different approaches you take to treating the condition?
A great home care regime is essential. I recommend incorporating ingredients such as salicylic acid to reduce inflammation and deep clean the pores. AHA’s such as lactic acid are great to slough away dead skin cells that may be clogging pores. Retinoids and light weight oil free moisturisers and sunscreens are also good for acne prone skin. As part of your regime, double cleansing in the evening, exfoliating at least three times per week and maintaining hydration is vital.
Clinical treatments and facials can also be a great support. The type of clinical treatment depends on the severity and cause of your acne. Everything from gentle AHA peels, salicylic peels, microdermabrasion, light therapy, ultrasound, laser and radio frequency can be effective in treating and managing acne.