ACNE – AN UNEXPECTED SKIN SAVIOUR?

“For many individuals, the mere mention of ‘acne’ conjures feelings of anxiety and memories of self-conscious moments tied to their appearance. However, there’s a silver lining in the battle for clear skin, and its benefits can extend throughout one’s lifetime.

Those who have grappled with acne, especially during their formative years, tend to prioritize skincare from an early age and generally exhibit a higher level of skin care diligence compared to their blemish-free counterparts. Acne sufferers possess a deeper understanding and appreciation of the profound impact that minor adjustments to their diet, overall lifestyle, and skincare regimen can have on the appearance of their skin. This includes fundamental skincare and lifestyle practices such as:

Removing makeup before sleep
Avoiding low-quality, harsh skincare products
Daily facial cleansing
Moisturizing daily
Sun protection
Limiting sugary and high-carbohydrate foods
Staying hydrated
Regular exercise
Getting adequate sleep

Several celebrities, including Katy Perry, Cameron Diaz, Victoria Beckham, and even Brad Pitt, have battled acne and emerged victorious by adhering to these fundamental principles. Australia’s own Rachael Finch recently shared her teenage insecurities stemming from breakouts and highlighted the importance of a healthy diet and sun protection.

In many cases, it’s those who have wrestled with acne who enjoy clearer, radiant skin later in life due to their commitment to establishing and maintaining good skincare habits. As time progresses, these individuals are more likely to experience better skin aging, while those who neglected their skin in their younger years may start to see the effects as they enter their 40s.

There is also some evidence, including a study published in the journal ‘Clinical Anatomy’ in 2015, suggesting that oily skin may be less prone to wrinkles compared to dry skin. This is attributed to the thicker nature of oily skin and its increased natural protection against environmental elements.

While many of us breathe a sigh of relief as we leave our teenage years behind, some are surprised and frustrated to find that acne continues to affect them into their 20s, 30s, and even 40s.

For those who have endured severe acne and are left with pitted skin or scars, there are various exfoliation and collagen regeneration treatments available that can enhance the overall appearance and texture of the skin.

A consultation with an experienced clinician is the best way to determine the most suitable treatment option for your needs. For some, a series of chemical peel exfoliations may be recommended. Others have reported remarkable results from micro-needling procedures like Dermapen and Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP).

Micro-needling, also known as collagen induction therapy (CIT), leverages your skin’s natural repair mechanisms by creating tiny ‘wounds’ through controlled needle penetration. This stimulates cell regeneration and the production of collagen to fill these ‘wounds,’ leaving your skin looking tighter, fresher, and more even. These treatments are gaining popularity worldwide due to their minimally invasive nature, short recovery periods, and outstanding outcomes.

A series of Dermapen treatments is typically recommended for optimal results, though improvements in skin texture may be visible shortly after the first session. Patients can resume their daily activities immediately following treatment.

PRP employs the same technology as Derma Pen, along with the healing potential of your own blood, to stimulate skin cells, regenerate collagen, and enhance micro-vascular blood flow, resulting in younger, healthier-looking skin. This treatment is an excellent choice for rejuvenating damaged skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and enhancing overall skin texture and elasticity.”