Acne Treatment in Singapore

Acne is a chronic and highly common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil (sebum) and dead skin cells. This clogging process, often combined with bacteria and inflammation, leads to the formation of pimples, blackheads, and cysts.

Teenage Acne 

Adolescent acne is commonly triggered by hormonal fluctuations during puberty, leading to increased sebum production and clogged pores. During the teenage years, acne often presents as widespread breakouts with a mix of blackheads, whiteheads, and superficial pustules. In contrast to adult acne, teenage acne is often more responsive to standard topical and oral treatments and tends to resolve more quickly.

Adult Acne 

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 teenage acne, adult acne can be triggered by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, certain medications, and lifestyle habits. While less common than teenage acne, adult acne can greatly impact one’s confidence and self-esteem.

Papules

Small, raised bumps on the skin that are often red and may feel tender to the touch. They indicate inflammation within the hair follicle.

Pustules

Small, inflamed bumps filled with pus. They are a result of bacteria and inflammatory cells within the follicle. Also known as whiteheads or pimples.

Nodules

Larger, firm, and often painful bumps that develop deeper within the skin. They represent a more severe form of inflammation and can persist for weeks or months.

Cystic Lesions

Large, pus-filled, and often painful bumps that occur deep within the skin. They are the most severe form of acne and can often lead to scarring.

Acne often begins with an excess of sebum (oil) production by the skin’s glands. This excess oil can mix with dead skin cells and debris, leading to clogged pores. If these pores become blocked, blackheads or whiteheads may form.

These clogged pores also create an ideal environment for acne-causing bacteria to thrive. As the bacteria multiply, your immune system reacts to the clogged and infected pores, resulting in redness, swelling, and pus-filled lesions.

Acne in both teenagers and adults can be exacerbated and triggered by:

• Hormonal Changes: Menstrual cycles, stress, and underlying hormonal imbalances (like PCOS) can increase sebum production, making the skin more susceptible to breakouts as androgens stimulate the oil glands.
• Genetics: A strong family history of acne suggests a genetic predisposition, meaning you are more likely to struggle with the condition if it runs in your family.
• Skincare and Makeup: Using heavy, oil-based, or pore-clogging (comedogenic) products can physically block hair follicles and exacerbate the formation of acne.
• Diet & Lifestyle: High sugar and greasy foods may lead to systemic inflammation and hormone fluctuations, while lack of sleep and chronic stress elevate cortisol levels, further promoting acne.
• Environmental Factors: External elements such as pollution, high humidity, and excessive sweating can create a breeding ground for bacteria and cause skin irritation, contributing to breakouts.

Untreated or improperly managed acne can leave behind permanent physical and emotional marks. The intense inflammation can result in lasting consequences like severe scarring and stubborn post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Hence, early intervention is critical, as treating acne promptly is the best defence against permanent textural damage, and it also helps to protect your long-term confidence.

As a dedicated acne treatment doctor with extensive experience in Singapore, Dr Gerard Ee understands that proper acne treatment for teenagers and adults requires a personalised approach.

For Mild to Moderate Acne

• Laser Therapy: Utilising specific wavelengths of light, laser therapy addresses acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation. This non-invasive acne laser treatment potentially helps control breakouts, reduce redness, and promote healing.
• Topical Treatments: These treatments can help manage mild to moderate acne by potentially unclogging pores, reducing inflammation, and preventing the growth of acne-causing bacteria. Examples include retinoids and antibacterial creams.

For Moderate to Severe Acne

• Gold Photothermal Therapy (PTT): Gold nanoparticles are used to manage acne-causing bacteria and sebaceous glands. Gold PTT could lead to long-term acne control and improvement in skin texture.
• Platinum Photothermal Therapy (PTT): Another treatment that employs platinum nanoparticles to address acne and control sebum production, Platinum PTT may be particularly helpful for individuals with inflammatory acne.

For Severe to Cystic Acne

• AGNES Laser: A minimally invasive procedure, AGNES laser treatment uses radiofrequency energy to selectively shrink sebaceous glands, potentially reducing oil production and preventing acne recurrence. It may be particularly helpful for treating cystic acne and preventing scarring.
• Isotretinoin: This oral medication helps treat severe or recalcitrant acne. Isotretinoin reduces sebum production, regulates skin cell turnover, and reduces inflammation. Dr Gerard Ee recommends this for individuals with severe acne that hasn’t responded to other treatments.

The final cost of treatment may vary based on the type and severity of your acne, the number of sessions required or the treatment duration. Book a consultation today for a personalised quote.