Acne is an incredibly common skin condition that can affect individuals of all ages, often causing distress and impacting self-confidence. It is so widespread that, as noted by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, it ranks among the most common skin conditions in the United Kingdom, prompting around 3.5 million visits to primary care services annually. While many experience mild forms, for others, acne can be persistent and severe, requiring professional intervention. If you are struggling with acne, Dr Tabi Leslie offers the acne treatment London residents maybe looking for with targeted solutions and personalised treatment plans.
Understanding acne: what causes breakouts?
Acne develops when hair follicles in the skin become blocked. Several factors contribute to this process:
- Excess Sebum (Oil) Production: Sebaceous glands in the skin produce an oily substance called sebum. Overproduction can lead to oily skin and blocked pores.
- Clogged Hair Follicles: Dead skin cells can mix with excess sebum, forming a plug that blocks the follicle.
- Bacterial Growth: The bacterium Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), which normally lives harmlessly on the skin, can thrive in these blocked follicles, leading to inflammation.
- Inflammation: The body’s response to the bacteria and blocked follicles causes the redness and swelling associated with acne spots.
Hormonal fluctuations play a significant role, which is why acne is common during puberty. However, it can also affect adults due to menstrual cycles, conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), or stress. Genetics and certain medications or cosmetics can also influence acne development.
Common acne lesions include:
- Comedones: Non-inflamed blocked follicles, appearing as blackheads (open to the skin surface) or whiteheads (closed).
- Papules: Small, tender red bumps.
- Pustules: Pimples containing visible pus.
- Nodules: Large, solid, painful lumps situated deeper within the skin.
- Cysts: Deep, painful, pus-filled lesions that carry a high risk of scarring.
The importance of professional acne treatment London
While mild acne might respond to over-the-counter products, moderate to severe acne, or persistent cases, often require professional dermatological assessment and treatment. Consulting a dermatologist like Dr Tabi Leslie for acne treatment in London offers several benefits:
- Accurate Diagnosis: Determining the type and severity of your acne is crucial for effective treatment.
- Identifying Triggers: A dermatologist can help identify potential contributing factors specific to your case.
- Access to Prescription Medications: Many of the most effective acne treatments are only available on prescription.
- Personalised Treatment Plan: Dr Leslie can create a tailored plan based on your skin type, acne severity, and lifestyle.
- Minimising Scarring: Early and effective treatment is key to preventing or minimising acne scarring.
Dr Tabi Leslie’s approach to acne treatment
Dr Tabi Leslie is an experienced consultant dermatologist with a special interest in managing acne. She offers a comprehensive approach to acne treatment, aiming to reduce breakouts, prevent scarring, and improve overall skin health. For further insights, Dr Leslie discusses acne in this informative video: What is acne? .
Dr Leslie’s treatment options may include:
- Topical Treatments: These are applied directly to the skin and include prescription-strength creams, gels, or lotions containing active ingredients like:
- Retinoids: To help unblock pores and reduce inflammation.
- Benzoyl Peroxide: To kill bacteria and reduce inflammation.
- Topical Antibiotics: To reduce bacteria and inflammation.
- Azelaic Acid: To unblock pores and reduce inflammation and pigmentation changes.
- Oral Medications:
- Oral Antibiotics: To reduce bacteria and inflammation for moderate to severe acne.
- Hormonal Treatments: For some females, the combined oral contraceptive pill or other anti-androgen medications can be effective.
- Isotretinoin: A highly effective oral medication reserved for severe, persistent, or scarring acne that has not responded to other treatments. This is a specialist medication prescribed and monitored by dermatologists.
- Skincare Advice: Guidance on a suitable daily skincare routine, including gentle cleansers, non-comedogenic (non-pore-blocking) moisturisers, and appropriate sun protection, is an integral part of the treatment plan.
Managing your acne: lifestyle and skincare tips
Alongside professional treatment, certain self-care measures can help manage acne:
- Cleanse Gently: Wash your face twice a day with a mild cleanser. Avoid harsh scrubbing, which can irritate the skin.
- Use Non-Comedogenic Products: Choose makeup and skincare products labelled “non-comedogenic.”
- Avoid Picking or Squeezing: This can worsen inflammation and lead to scarring.
- Be Patient: Acne treatments take time to work. Consistency is key, and it may take several weeks or months to see significant improvement.
Appointments for Acne Treatment London
Acne can be a challenging condition, but effective treatments are available. If you are struggling with acne, seeking professional help from a consultant dermatologist is the best course of action. Dr Tabi Leslie offers expert diagnosis, personalised acne treatment and ongoing support to help you achieve clearer, healthier skin.
To schedule a consultation with Dr Tabi Leslie to discuss your acne concerns, please contact her clinic.