Acne Treatment in Singapore

Tired of dealing with breakouts as an adult? Adult acne is a common concern, but treatments are available. Regain your confidence and achieve clear skin with personalised acne treatment in Singapore.

Dr Gerard Ee
MBBS (UK), MRCS (Edinburgh), DP Dermatology (Cardiff)

About Adult Acne

Adult acne is a prevalent condition affecting individuals over the age of 25. While it shares similarities with adolescent acne, it often presents unique challenges. Adult acne can manifest as persistent breakouts from adolescence, late-onset acne occurring for the first time in adulthood, or even recurrent acne after a period of clear skin.

Unlike adolescent acne, which is often driven by hormonal fluctuations during puberty, adult acne can be triggered by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, certain medications, and lifestyle habits. Adult acne can be particularly frustrating as it can impact self-esteem and quality of life. The good news is that treatment options are available to manage adult acne and achieve clear, healthy skin.

Types of Adult Acne

Adult acne can be categorised into different types based on its onset and characteristics:

  • Persistent Acne: This is a continuation of adolescent acne caused by different reasons. It may be due to ineffective past treatments, improper use of treatments, or a lack of response to previous therapies. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during menstruation, can also contribute to persistent acne.
  • Late-Onset Adult Acne: This type of acne appears for the first time in adulthood, typically after the age of 25. It often manifests as deep-rooted nodules and cysts, primarily on the chin. In some cases, late-onset acne may be associated with underlying medical conditions.
  • Recurrent Adult Acne: This involves the relapse of adolescent acne in adulthood, even after a period of clear skin. It can be challenging to pinpoint the exact cause, but factors like hormonal change, stress, and certain medications may play a role. Isotretinoin is often recommended as a treatment option for recurrent adult acne.

Causes of Adult Acne

Adult acne can stem from a variety of factors, ranging from hormonal fluctuations and genetic predispositions to external influences like stress and certain medications. Understanding these causes can help your doctor recommend a suitable treatment plan.

  • Menstrual Cycle: Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can trigger acne flares in some women, particularly those with persistent adult acne.
  • Androgens: Androgens, a type of hormone, can stimulate sebum production, contributing to acne development.

  • Late-Onset Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH): A rare condition affecting hormone production that may be associated with adult acne.
  • Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS): A hormonal disorder that can cause various symptoms, including acne.
  • Genetics: Family history plays a role in the likelihood of developing adult acne.

  • Drug-Induced Acne: Certain medications, like prednisolone, lithium, anabolic steroids, and phenytoin, can trigger acne breakouts.
  • Ultraviolet Light Exposure: Ultraviolet radiation can cause inflammation and generate a substance called squalene peroxide that significantly causes acne. This is also why acne is persistent in tropical countries, adding to the uncontrollable perspiring and increased humidity.
  • Climate: Hot and humid climates may exacerbate acne.
  • Obesity and Diet: A diet high in processed foods and refined sugars may contribute to acne development.
  • Smoking: Smoking has been linked to increased acne severity.
  • Cosmetics: Certain cosmetics, especially those that are oil-based or comedogenic, can clog pores and worsen acne.
  • Stress: Chronic stress can trigger hormonal imbalances and exacerbate acne.
  • Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can either improve or worsen acne, depending on the individual.

Our Acne Treatment Options

Mild to Moderate Acne

  • Laser Therapy: Laser therapy is a non-invasive acne laser treatment that utilises specific wavelengths of light to target acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation. This can help control breakouts, reduce redness, and promote healing.
  • Topical Treatments: Topical treatments, such as retinoids and antibacterial creams, can help manage mild to moderate acne. These treatments work by unclogging pores, reducing inflammation, and preventing the growth of acne-causing bacteria.

Moderate to Severe Acne

  • Gold Photothermal Therapy (PTT):Gold PTT is a type of treatment that utilises gold nanoparticles to specifically target and destroy acne-causing bacteria and sebaceous glands. This can lead to long-term acne control and improvement in skin texture.
  • Platinum PTT:Platinum PTT is another advanced treatment that employs platinum nanoparticles to target acne and reduce sebum production. It can be particularly helpful for individuals with inflammatory acne.

Severe to Cystic Acne

  • AGNES Laser:AGNES laser treatment is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to selectively target and shrink sebaceous glands, reducing oil production and preventing acne recurrence. It is particularly helpful for treating cystic acne and preventing scarring.
  • Isotretinoin: Isotretinoin is an oral medication that helps treat severe or recalcitrant acne. It reduces sebum production, regulates skin cell turnover, and reduces inflammation. Isotretinoin is often considered for individuals with severe acne that hasn’t responded to other treatments in Singapore.

Learn More About Dr Gerard Ee

MBBS (UK), MRCS (Edinburgh), DP Dermatology (Cardiff)

Dr Gerard Ee is a medical aesthetic doctor specialising in treating acne and acne scar removal in Singapore. He earned his medical degree (MBBS) from St George’s University of London. He pursued further training and became a member of the Royal College of Surgeons (MRCS) in Edinburgh.

  • Acne and Acne Scar Treatment
  • Medical Aesthetics
  • Skin Rejuvenation

Dr Gerard Ee believes in building strong relationships with individuals based on trust and open communication. He takes the time to understand their concerns and goals, creating personalised treatment plans tailored to their specific needs. He is committed to providing a comfortable and supportive environment where patients feel empowered to make informed decisions about their skin health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Acne Treatments in Singapore

Adult acne commonly presents as inflammatory lesions, such as papules, pustules, and nodules, typically appearing around the chin, jawline, and neck. While comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) may occur, they are less common in adult acne than adolescent acne. Cystic acne, characterised by deep, painful cysts, can also affect adults, although adult acne is usually mild to moderate in severity.

Adult acne can have significant implications beyond the physical blemishes. It can impact self-esteem, social interactions, and overall quality of life. Persistent or severe acne can lead to scarring, which can be a source of long-term concern.

Early intervention and treatment are advisable to minimise the physical and emotional impact of adult acne. Your doctor can provide comprehensive acne treatment and support to help you achieve clear skin and restore your confidence.

The time it takes to see results from acne treatment varies depending on several factors, including the type and severity of your acne, the recommended treatment method, and your individual skin response.

  • Topical treatments: You may start noticing skin improvements within a few weeks of using topical treatments like retinoids or antibacterial creams.
  • Laser therapy: The results of laser therapy can be seen gradually over several sessions, with most individuals noticing improvement within a few months.
  • Isotretinoin: Isotretinoin typically takes several months to show improvement in acne. You may notice initial dryness and some acne purging in the first few weeks, but the full effects usually become apparent after three to six months.
  • AGNES Laser: AGNES laser treatment often requires multiple sessions spaced a few weeks apart. You may see gradual improvement in your acne over time, with optimal results typically achieved after a series of treatments.

Oral medications can help treat moderate to severe adult acne that hasn’t responded to topical treatments. These medications work systematically to target the underlying causes of acne.

Types of Oral Medications:

  • Antibiotics: Oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline or minocycline, can help reduce inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria.
  • Hormonal Therapies: For women with hormonally influenced acne, oral contraceptives or anti-androgen medications may be helpful.
  • Isotretinoin: Isotretinoin is an oral retinoid reserved for severe or recalcitrant acne. It significantly reduces sebum production and helps prevent new breakouts.

Important Considerations:

  • Side Effects: Oral medications can have potential side effects, so it’s advisable to discuss these with the doctor before starting treatment.
  • Antibiotic Resistance: Long-term use of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, so they are typically used for a limited duration.
  • Pregnancy: Some oral medications, particularly isotretinoin, can cause severe birth defects and should not be taken during pregnancy.

The doctor will consider your needs and medical history before recommending oral medications. He will also discuss the potential benefits and risks to help you make an informed decision about your acne treatment in Singapore.