Skin Treatments for Acne & Breakouts
Acne is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterised by comedones (blackheads), whiteheads, pustules, and in more severe cases, nodules or cysts. It typically affects the face, chest, and back. Acne is classified into a four-grade severity scale, ranging from mild to severe. We further classify acne into three categories: teenage acne, adult acne (persistent after the age of 21), and acne rosacea, which often arises during the hormonal fluctuations of peri-menopause.
At Geelong & Surfcoast Skin, we assess the underlying causes of your acne to provide you with the most effective treatment. Mild to moderate cases can often be managed with a targeted combination of prescriptive home care, LED therapy, and chemical peels. Moderate to severe acne presentations may require a multidisciplinary approach, integrating dermal therapies with prescription-based topical or oral medications.
Once active acne is managed, we shift our focus to scar revision. Treatment options are guided by the appearance of the scars, which can be red, brown, flat, or textured. Your treatment plan is personalised to your skin’s presentation, acne severity, and lifestyle to ensure it is safe and effective.
Acne & Breakouts FAQ’s
We aim to see change in the skin in as little as 4 weeks with a combination of both in-clinic treatments and home care. You will notice an initial reduction in inflammation, less severe breakouts and faster healing. More significant results are achieved from 3 months.
When we begin treating acne, we promote cellular renewal, which means your skin will flare as the congestion moves up and out of the skin. The process can take up to 3 months. Patience and perseverance are key.
Yes. Most medications are safe for all dermal therapy treatments. However, as some medications can thin and dry the skin, thus making it more sensitive, we avoid more intensive dermal therapies during this time
In adults, lifestyle factors such as nutrition, exercise habits and cosmetics may exacerbate acne. Often however hormones are the major underlying cause of acne. This occurs particularly during the teenage years and during menopause where hormonal changes can lead to oiler skin and acne lesions.
It could be a contributing factor. Cortisol is our primary stress hormone. When cortisol remains elevated, we see increases in sebum (oil), more inflammation and slower healing, as well as a rise in androgens which can lead to acne exacerbation in women.
