Prescription-strength creams or gels such as retinoids (e.g., tretinoin, adapalene), antibiotics (e.g., clindamycin with benzoyl peroxide), and salicylic acid formulations are used to unclog pores, reduce bacteria, and calm inflammation.
Acne Treatment in Singapore
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become blocked with oil and dead skin cells. This blockage creates an environment where bacteria can multiply, leading to inflammation and the formation of spots. The condition can affect people of all ages, though it often begins during adolescence and may continue into adulthood.
Indications for Acne Treatment
Acne presents with various types of spots and skin changes that patients can see and feel on their skin.
- Blackheads and whiteheads: Small, non-inflamed spots that appear as dark points (blackheads) or small white bumps (whiteheads) on the skin surface.
- Inflamed red spots: Raised bumps that appear red and feel tender to touch, often developing around hair follicles.
- Spots with pus: Inflamed bumps containing visible white or yellow fluid at the centre, typically surrounded by red skin.
- Deep lumps beneath the skin: Painful, firm lumps under the skin that do not form a visible head and can last for weeks without draining or shrinking.
- Excess oil on the skin: Overproduction of oil that makes the skin appear shiny, particularly noticeable on the forehead, nose, and chin.
- Uneven skin texture: Rough or bumpy skin, particularly in areas where multiple spots are present or healing.
- Dark marks after spots heal: Areas of increased pigmentation that remain after inflammatory spots resolve, most noticeable on darker skin.
Causes and Risk Factors of Acne
Several factors contribute to the development of acne, with some people being more prone to the condition than others.
- Hormonal fluctuations: Changes in hormone levels during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause can increase oil production in the skin.
- Genetic predisposition: Family history plays a significant role, with acne often running in families across generations.
- Pore-clogging products: Heavy or oil-based skincare and cosmetic products can block pores, particularly those not labelled as non-comedogenic.
- Age-related hormonal changes: Teenagers and young adults experience more acne due to hormonal shifts, though the condition can occur at any age.
Acne Treatment Options in Singapore
Acne is managed through a combination of non-invasive and medical-grade treatments tailored to reduce inflammation, control breakouts, and restore clearer skin.
Topical Medications
Chemical Peels
Superficial peels combining lactic, salicylic, and glycolic acids gently exfoliate the skin to reduce acne lesions and post-inflammatory pigmentation while promoting skin renewal.
LED Light Therapy
Blue light therapy targets acne-causing bacteria in the skin while calming inflammation and reducing redness, supporting overall acne clearance.
Radiofrequency Microneedling
These treatments deliver controlled energy through microneedles to stimulate collagen and improve both active acne and residual textural irregularities.
Laser Treatments
Dual-wavelength lasers reduce bacteria, control oil production, and treat acne-related redness. Fractional lasers also help remodel skin texture and improve acne scars.
Oral Medications
Antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline), isotretinoin, and oral contraceptives may be prescribed depending on acne severity and hormonal factors to manage acne from within.
Other Medical Aesthetic Treatments
Intralesional acne injections help quickly reduce inflamed cysts or nodules, while medical facials support long-term acne control through deep cleansing and oil regulation.
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Consult with our doctors for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.
Prevention and Management
Maintaining a consistent skincare routine with gentle, non-comedogenic products helps reduce the risk of clogged pores and breakouts. Avoid picking or squeezing spots, as this can worsen inflammation and increase the chance of scarring. Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen protects healing skin and helps prevent post-acne marks from darkening.
For individuals with recurring or persistent acne, regular skin assessments with a medical aesthetics doctor in Singapore can support ongoing treatment planning and skin monitoring.
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siglap
2 First St, #01-10 Siglap V, Singapore 458278
Mon – Fri: 10:30am to 8pm
Saturday: 10:30am to 6:30pm
Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed
orchard
360 Orchard Road, #05-06 International Building, Singapore 238869
Mon & Thurs: 11:30am to 7pm
Tues, Wed, & Fri: 10am to 8pm
Saturday: 10am to 3pm
Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed
tampines
1 Tampines Central 5, #07-01 CPF Tampines Building, Singapore 529508
Mon – Fri: 11:30am to 9pm
Saturday: 10am to 7pm
Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take for me to see results from acne treatment?
Most patients notice initial improvement within 6-8 weeks, though significant clearing typically takes 3-4 months as treatments work with the skin’s natural renewal process.
Why does my acne seem worse during certain times of the month?
Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle commonly cause acne flare-ups, typically occurring in the week before menstruation when hormone levels change most dramatically.
What should I do if my skin becomes very dry or irritated during treatment?
Temporary dryness or irritation is common with many acne treatments, and your treatment plan may need adjustment, including gentler products or modified application frequency.
Can acne treatments help with existing scars as well as active spots?
Many treatments address both active acne and improve scar appearance simultaneously, though established scars may require specific targeted procedures for optimal results.
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