32 The Green, Firs Court
Hardingstone, Northampton, NN4 6TB

Acne

Acne is the most common skin condition in the world, affecting over 85% of people at some point in their lives.

Contrary to popular belief, it isn’t just a teenage problem – it can affect people of all ages, including adults. 80% of 11-30 year olds will be affected. However, unfortunately we see many people in their 30’s and 40’s who also suffer from acne. According to healthline.com, 26% of women aged 31-40 and 12% of women aged 41-50 will suffer.

skin anatomy

Acne is a condition that causes spots to develop on the skin, usually on the face, back and chest. These can range from mild blackheads and whiteheads to in the worst cases pus-filled pustules and cysts, which can be inflamed, angry and painful. This severe form of acne can unfortunately be quite long lasting and can lead to scarring.

Areas of pigmentation can also follow after inflammatory spots such as those caused by acne, and this occurs more commonly in darker skin types.

Why Acne Occurs

Contrary to popular opinion, acne is not caused by dirty skin or poor hygiene. Acne is caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, hormones, and oil production.

  • Glands in the skin begin to produce excessive amounts of an oily substance known as sebum (this can be triggered by hormonal changes during puberty)
  • The excess sebum mixes with dead skin cells and blocks tiny hair follicles
  • Bacteria that live on the skin can then infect a blocked follicle, causing blackheads and whiteheads, inflammation, spots and pus-filled cysts

Acne tends to run in families, so there is a genetic predisposition to the condition. It can be triggered by hormonal changes such as puberty, menstrual cycle or pregnancy). Stress, and diet can also be a factor. Certain medications, including oral contraceptives and steroids, can also trigger acne.

Acne Treatment

Severe acne can cause lasting damage to the skin. Acne scars can be quite severe and can leave permanent marks that last a lifetime. What’s more, acne is not just a cosmetic problem. It can also lead to psychological problems, such as low self-esteem and depression, so it is recommended to seek professional advice.

There are effective treatments available which reduce and prevent the activity of the acne in order to stop the severe inflammation and pigmentation. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for acne. What works for one person may not work for another, so it is important to see someone who is expert in acne treatment in order to get a personalised treatment plan.

Finding the right skincare regime can be hugely important in managing outbreaks. Gentle products are often best, as harsh astringents can be drying and cause further overproduction of oil.

Mulberry House Clinic in Northamptonshire offer a range of treatments and prescription skincare products that address the underlying problems of blocked pores, excessive oiliness, and inflammation / infection, whilst at the same time improving the overall texture and resilience of your skin. It can take time and persistence to find the right treatment plan for each individual and this is something that needs to constantly evolve as the condition develops and hopefully improves.

ARA Accredited Treatment Centre

ARA accredited treatment centre

Mulberry House Clinic is the ONLY Accredited Treatment Centre of the Acne and Rosacea Association UK (ARA UK) to be found within a 10 mile radius of Northampton.

Patients with acne and/or rosacea can be reassured that in choosing Mulberry House Clinic, they will find high standards of knowledge about the conditions and a range of appropriate treatment options.

Expert practitioners work with acne patients in order to manage and improve the condition.

Acne Treatments to Consider:

Video:

Sebum, Oil and Sebaceous Glands – Skin Treatment Doctor Explains