Skin Concerns
Acne
Medically-led acne management at SkinLab, Birdwell — from chemical peels and Dermalux LED phototherapy to Lynton IPL and prescription medical-grade skincare. Evidence-based treatments tailored to your skin.
Can't find an answer to your question? Reach us at hello@skin-lab.uk
What is acne?
Acne is a skin condition which can affect mainly the face, however can also affect the chest, neck and back. Acne causes spots which can also be linked with excessively oily skin. It can also sometimes feel hot or painful.
There are 6 main types of spot caused by a bacteria called P. acnes which live on the skin and cause acne.
Blackheads
Small black spots which appear like dark pores. They're not filled with dirt, but are black because the inner lining of the hair follicle produces a colour.
Whiteheads
Similar appearance to blackheads, but may be firm and will not empty when squeezed.
Papules
Small red bumps that may feel tender or sore and don't develop heads.
Pustules
Similar to papules, but they develop a white tip in the centre, caused by a build-up of pus and oils because of a blocked pore.
Nodules
Large hard lumps that build up beneath the surface of the skin. These can be painful and raised.
Cysts
The most severe type of spot caused by acne; they're large pus-filled lumps that look similar to boils and carry the greatest risk of causing permanent scars.
It is important not to squeeze spots as this will make the condition worse.
What can I do myself to control acne?
Acne can affect people's self-esteem and self-confidence. Sometimes self-care measures alone do not control the acne and further treatment is required.
- 1.Do not wash affected areas of skin more than twice a day. Too much washing can irritate the skin and make symptoms worse.
- 2.Wash the affected area with a mild soap or cleanser and lukewarm water. Do not use very hot or very cold water as this can make things worse.
- 3.Do not try to 'squeeze out' blackheads or spots. This can make them worse and cause permanent scars.
- 4.Avoid make-up, skincare and suncare products that are oil-based (sometimes labelled 'comedogenic'). Use water-based non-comedogenic products instead.
- 5.Completely remove make-up before going to bed. Do not use baby wipes to do this.
- 6.If dry skin is a problem, use a fragrance-free water-based moisturiser to add rehydration to the skin.
- 7.Regular exercise cannot improve your acne, but it can boost your mood and improve your self-esteem. Shower as soon as possible after exercising as sweat can irritate acne.
- 8.Avoid alcohol which can increase inflammation.
Sometimes these measures alone do not control the acne and further treatment is required. Please continue reading to see how we can help.
Treatment
Chemical peels to control and manage acne
Specific chemical peels which contain salicylic acid can be used to target the upper layer of skin where the P. acnes bacteria are thriving and leading to blocked pores and the formation of acne. If we can drastically reduce the number of these P. acnes bacteria and regulate the oil production (sebum glands), we can therefore significantly improve acne.
Suitable for all skin types. This type of chemical peel can cause some mild stinging or burning and redness. Downtime is minimal and unlikely to be more than 2–7 days. Some superficial skin shedding may occur but is unlikely. Active acne lesions can become white and slightly sore but this is generally short-lived and would improve after a number of peels.
These chemical peels should be completed every 2–4 weeks, and a course of at least 4–6 peels is recommended.
It is recommended that medical grade skincare products (which can be purchased via the clinic) are utilised twice daily at home. These peels can also be used in conjunction with Dermalux LED phototherapy to reduce downtime and enhance the effects.
Treatment
Dermalux LED phototherapy to control and manage acne
Dermalux LED therapy — otherwise known as phototherapy — can be used to treat and manage acne. Light Emitting Diode (LED) Phototherapy is a non-invasive treatment that targets specific non-thermal light to energise cells which triggers a cascade of bio-stimulatory responses. It is scientifically proven for a wide range of indications including acne and inflammation caused by acne.
Phototherapy does not transfer heat, nor create trauma, making it particularly effective to treat problematic and inflammatory conditions. With one of the highest safety profiles, it is a pain-free treatment without downtime and suitable for all skin types.
Specially blue and near infrared lights emitted from the Dermalux Flex device are the 2 wavelengths which are of most benefit for the treatment and management of acne.
This device possesses a UK medical licence meaning it is evidence-based and dermatology approved for the treatment of many skin conditions, including acne. It is recommended that the device is used daily for 30 minutes, for 14 days. The Dermalux LED device is available to rent from clinic for 2-week periods.
Treatment
IPL to control and manage acne
If you are hoping to reduce active acne lesions, reduce redness, lessen inflammation and the frequency of your breakouts, acne-prone skin can be effectively treated with Lynton Intense Pulsed Light (IPL). This can be used as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with other clinical treatments.
IPL directly addresses the P. acnes bacteria. By using medical-grade IPL you will experience clearer skin and an improvement in the tone, texture and appearance of your skin. IPL specifically targets overactive sebaceous glands which in turn reduces the oiliness of your skin and reduces acne breakouts.
We offer safe and effective acne treatments for men and women for the face and body. A thorough consultation is carried out before any treatment is commenced as not everyone will be suitable for IPL.
If IPL is suitable for you, we recommend at least 6 sessions, along with additional exfoliating treatments such as at-home medical grade skincare regimes which can be prescribed through our clinic.
Treatment
Medical grade home skincare regime to control and manage acne
Medical grade skincare regimes are always recommended either as a stand-alone treatment, or alongside the above treatments to manage acne. Acne is not curable, but is manageable.
Medical grade skincare can be prescribed by our advanced nurse practitioners in clinic following a thorough skincare consultation.
How to book
Struggling with acne and over-the-counter products aren't working? Book a skin consultation at SkinLab and we will assess your skin and create a personalised treatment plan.