Causes

Proven causes of acne:

• Genetic tendency – it can run in families
• Hormones – particularly during adolescence, pre menstrually, at times of change due to pregnancy/breastfeeding or menopause
• The wrong type of skincare or makeup that clogs pores and increases bacteria on the skin surface

Myths – acne is not caused by:

• Eating fatty foods or chocolate. (Although a healthy diet with lots of variety will help skin health). There is some research to say high sugar foods and dairy can exacerbate acne if you are prone to it, but we do not recommend cutting out all dairy foods unless you are working with a dietician to maintain your recommended calcium intake.
• Not washing your face enough

Treatments

Medical treatments – start with a GVSL doctor’s skin appointment:

• Prescribed topical and/or oral medications to treat acne by addressing hormones, inflammation, acne bacteria, decrease oil production or combinations of these factors.

Dermal therapy treatments – start with dermal clinician skin analysis appointment:

• LED blue light therapy
• Acne medifacial with extractions
• Acne medical peel
• Photodynamic therapy
• Advice and development of a home skincare plan to address acne, working with your skin type and budget

Acne scar treatments:

• Acupulse CO2 fractional resurfacing laser
• Skin needling
• Localised injectable filler placement
• Subcision (release of tethered skin with an inserted cannula)
• Cortisone injections
• Combination treatment of the above