Acne is a skin inflammation which often starts with the hormonal changes of puberty, when the tiny sebaceous glands in the skin start to produce skin oil (sebum). In adolescence the sebum production may become excessive and the gland outlets to the skin surface may become blocked so that whiteheads or blackheads (comedones) are formed. Infection of these areas can lead to pustules or even painful cysts. These may cause skin scarring.

Treatment

Mild acne can be treated with prescription ‘rub on’ products designed to release the blocked pores and fight infection. More severe acne may require antibiotic tablets. Women may find that taking a special type of oral contraceptive pill is helpful. People with severe acne often benefit from a course of a special vitamin A derivative medication known as isotretinoin, which would be prescribed by Dr Le Grice.

A series of gentle fruit acid skin peels combined with a special skin care programme designed for acne-affected skin will often clear or control acne without the need to resort to prescribed medication. Some people may find that a series of gentle pulsed dye laser treatments is all that is required to keep their acne under control.