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Skin Renewal Doctors all have a broad knowledge, background and passion for aesthetic medicine. Please feel free to ask them your questions and concerns.

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Conditions
Conditions

Acne

Acne is quite a common skin disorder. However, its bad reputation associated with the teenage years does have alarm bells ringing if it crops up again in adulthood. Adult acne, particularly in women, can be linked to hormonal fluctuations and other underlying health issues, including Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Understanding the root causes is essential for effective management and long-term control.
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Diagnostically, a Skin Renewal medical doctor can help and work with you to calm the source of the problem. In other words, your pimples are skin signals telling you something is off-balance in your body. The deeper you dive into what’s happening holistically, the better you can manage your acne.

Acne is essentially when hair follicles become clogged with oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria. You see blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or cysts showing up on your face and chest, and often, for men, the back and shoulder areas. Remember, your genetics, diet, and the environment, like pollution, influence acne. Even your lifestyle choices (smoking, incorrect skincare and hydration levels) can impact the issue. 

What Causes Acne?

Acne occurs when hair follicles become blocked with oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria. Several factors contribute to this process.

How PCOS Contributes to Acne

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects multiple systems in the body—and the skin is no exception. Acne is a common symptom of PCOS due to the complex interplay of hormones, insulin resistance, and inflammation. Here’s how PCOS can trigger or worsen breakouts:

Symptoms of Hormonal Acne Linked to PCOS


Treatment Options for Acne

Acne treatment isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Melanin-rich skins may tackle PIH and dark marks after the breakout (the skin injury). So treatment should be done for your specific needs and to heal the acne and what it’s left behind. Think of it as an overall approach. So, while a superficial chemical peel (like an Azelaic Peel) helps exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog pores, those with actual scarring and needing collagen stimulation may need the support of laser treatment.

Our doctor-led combination treatments target all layers of the skin for more effective and lasting results, helping you achieve clearer skin and long-term confidence. Treatment options include:

Complete Acne Care

Understanding acne as a multi-faceted condition is essential for long-term control. Skin Renewal takes a holistic approach to acne management, addressing gut health, hormonal imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies:

Skin Renewal's personalised approach means no more one-size-fits-all solutions. Let us help you find the right combination of treatments to achieve your best skin yet. Book your consultation today.

frequently asked
questions

Are acne treatments available at all Skin Renewal clinics?
What age is acne the worst?

Acne is typically most severe during puberty, generally between 12 and 24. This period is marked by significant hormonal changes that increase sebum production (Skin oil), leading to breakouts. However, adult acne is increasingly prevalent, affecting individuals in their 30s and 40s, particularly women, due to factors such as hormonal fluctuations and lifestyle changes.

Why are you suddenly getting acne?

Sudden acne breakouts can be attributed to several factors:

  • Hormonal fluctuations: Changes in hormonal levels, especially during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and stress.
  • Stress: Increased stress levels can lead to higher cortisol production, possibly triggering acne.
  • Changes in skincare routine: Introducing new products or not using products suited for your skin type can cause breakouts
  • Dietary triggers: Certain foods, particularly dairy or high glycaemic foods, may exacerbate acne
What lifestyle adjustments can you make to reduce breakouts?
  • Protect Your Skin: Use broad-spectrum, non-comedogenic sunscreen to avoid pigmentation from sun exposure.
  • Smart Cosmetics: Opt for oil-free, hypoallergenic makeup to minimise clogged pores.
  • Gentle Cleansing: Cleanse twice daily with a mild, oil-free product to remove bacteria without irritation.
  • Hands Off: Avoid picking at acne to reduce scarring and speed healing.
  • Healthy Shaving: Use a clean razor and soothing, alcohol-free aftershave to prevent irritation.
  • Skin-Friendly Nutrition: To support skin health, include foods rich in vitamins A, E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Why won't your acne go away?

Persistent acne can result from:

  • Improper skin care: Using products that irritate the skin or over-exfoliating can worsen the condition
  • Clogged pores: Accumulating dead skin cells and oil can lead to persistent breakouts.
  • Underlying factors: hormonal imbalances and chronic stress may also play a role.
Can PCOS-related acne be treated effectively?

A holistic approach addressing the root causes—hormonal balance, gut health, and inflammation—can significantly improve PCOS-related acne.

What does stress acne look like?
  • Red, inflamed pimples of cysts, often located on the forehead, chin, or jawline.
  • The increase in cortisol levels due to stress leads to heightened oil production, resulting in these breakouts.
How do you know if your acne is hormonal?
  • Deep, painful cysts primarily along the chin, jawline and lower face.
  • Breakouts that coincide with hormonal changes such as menstruation or pregnancy.
  • A cyclic pattern or worsening during periods of high stress suggests a hormonal component.
Does acne go away on its own?

While some individuals may experience spontaneous clearance of acne, especially during puberty, many continue to struggle with it into adulthood. Untreated acne can lead to scarring; therefore, effective treatments and proper skin care are essential for managing and preventing long-term damage.

Can drinking lots of water reduce acne?

Drinking water is good for your skin and can help keep it healthy, but it won't cure acne. Here's how it helps:

  • Keeps skin hydrated: Staying hydrated helps prevent dry skin, which can lead to more oil production and clogged pores.
  • Flushes out toxins: Drinking water helps remove toxins from your body, which can reduce bacteria that cause acne.
  • Supports healing: Proper hydration can aid in healing existing acne and reduce inflammation.
How does Skin Renewal's holistic approach differ from other acne treatments?

Skin Renewal combines advanced treatments with nutritional and lifestyle support to target the root causes of acne, ensuring comprehensive care.

Can IV Nutrient Therapy help with acne?

Yes, IV Therapy delivers essential vitamins and minerals directly into the bloodstream for rapid absorption, reducing inflammation and supporting overall skin health.

What nutrients are best for managing acne?

Nutrients like Vitamins A and E, zinc, and Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation, support healing, and strengthen the skin barrier.

How does gut health affect acne?

An imbalanced gut microbiome can increase systemic inflammation and disrupt hormone regulation, which can worsen acne.

Can hormonal changes during menstruation or pregnancy trigger acne?

Yes, hormonal surges during these times can increase oil production, clog pores, and lead to breakouts.

Frequently asked questions

Are acne treatments available at all Skin Renewal clinics?
What age is acne the worst?

Acne is typically most severe during puberty, generally between 12 and 24. This period is marked by significant hormonal changes that increase sebum production (Skin oil), leading to breakouts. However, adult acne is increasingly prevalent, affecting individuals in their 30s and 40s, particularly women, due to factors such as hormonal fluctuations and lifestyle changes.

Why are you suddenly getting acne?

Sudden acne breakouts can be attributed to several factors:

  • Hormonal fluctuations: Changes in hormonal levels, especially during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and stress.
  • Stress: Increased stress levels can lead to higher cortisol production, possibly triggering acne.
  • Changes in skincare routine: Introducing new products or not using products suited for your skin type can cause breakouts
  • Dietary triggers: Certain foods, particularly dairy or high glycaemic foods, may exacerbate acne
What lifestyle adjustments can you make to reduce breakouts?
  • Protect Your Skin: Use broad-spectrum, non-comedogenic sunscreen to avoid pigmentation from sun exposure.
  • Smart Cosmetics: Opt for oil-free, hypoallergenic makeup to minimise clogged pores.
  • Gentle Cleansing: Cleanse twice daily with a mild, oil-free product to remove bacteria without irritation.
  • Hands Off: Avoid picking at acne to reduce scarring and speed healing.
  • Healthy Shaving: Use a clean razor and soothing, alcohol-free aftershave to prevent irritation.
  • Skin-Friendly Nutrition: To support skin health, include foods rich in vitamins A, E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Why won't your acne go away?

Persistent acne can result from:

  • Improper skin care: Using products that irritate the skin or over-exfoliating can worsen the condition
  • Clogged pores: Accumulating dead skin cells and oil can lead to persistent breakouts.
  • Underlying factors: hormonal imbalances and chronic stress may also play a role.
Can PCOS-related acne be treated effectively?

A holistic approach addressing the root causes—hormonal balance, gut health, and inflammation—can significantly improve PCOS-related acne.

What does stress acne look like?
  • Red, inflamed pimples of cysts, often located on the forehead, chin, or jawline.
  • The increase in cortisol levels due to stress leads to heightened oil production, resulting in these breakouts.
How do you know if your acne is hormonal?
  • Deep, painful cysts primarily along the chin, jawline and lower face.
  • Breakouts that coincide with hormonal changes such as menstruation or pregnancy.
  • A cyclic pattern or worsening during periods of high stress suggests a hormonal component.
Does acne go away on its own?

While some individuals may experience spontaneous clearance of acne, especially during puberty, many continue to struggle with it into adulthood. Untreated acne can lead to scarring; therefore, effective treatments and proper skin care are essential for managing and preventing long-term damage.

Can drinking lots of water reduce acne?

Drinking water is good for your skin and can help keep it healthy, but it won't cure acne. Here's how it helps:

  • Keeps skin hydrated: Staying hydrated helps prevent dry skin, which can lead to more oil production and clogged pores.
  • Flushes out toxins: Drinking water helps remove toxins from your body, which can reduce bacteria that cause acne.
  • Supports healing: Proper hydration can aid in healing existing acne and reduce inflammation.
How does Skin Renewal's holistic approach differ from other acne treatments?

Skin Renewal combines advanced treatments with nutritional and lifestyle support to target the root causes of acne, ensuring comprehensive care.

Can IV Nutrient Therapy help with acne?

Yes, IV Therapy delivers essential vitamins and minerals directly into the bloodstream for rapid absorption, reducing inflammation and supporting overall skin health.

What nutrients are best for managing acne?

Nutrients like Vitamins A and E, zinc, and Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation, support healing, and strengthen the skin barrier.

How does gut health affect acne?

An imbalanced gut microbiome can increase systemic inflammation and disrupt hormone regulation, which can worsen acne.

Can hormonal changes during menstruation or pregnancy trigger acne?

Yes, hormonal surges during these times can increase oil production, clog pores, and lead to breakouts.

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They are good and the staff is welcoming. The doctors they explain everything to me so far I'm happy. The client service is good. Thanks for Noxy to convince me to come to Skin Renewal & for Dr Zander!

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Fantastice, great service, very lovely team. Noxy is the best. Very friendly and professional.

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Always enjoy my visit at the new Monringside branch. The staff is always very welcoming and extremely helpful.

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Ever since I had facial treatments here, my skin has shown a tremendous improvement. Dr Nadirah has been taking me step by step. She is a very patient soul. Always gives helpful advice. All the ladies here are very helpful. I enjoy coming here.

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Skin Renewal Claremont gave me wonderful service. The staff that I met were professional, helpful and kind.

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Awesome service and staff, Love the atmosphere. Outstanding service.

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Sharon is the best therapist I have ever been to, she is caring and attentive at all times. She knows her job back to front and does everything so remarkable. I will never change. I absolutely love her.

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I have always struggled to get that perfect "glow" of a beautiful skin until I walked into Skin Renewal into the caring hands of my therapist. She has weaved her magic potions into my ageing skin, recommended home care that works wonders and her knowledge of specifically what my skin needs have uplifted, rejuvenated a look of well-being in my skin, that I now cannot live without. Forever grateful, a dream come true.

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This is an excellent treatment. Saw a result after first treatment. Therapist is well trained and professional. I would recommend the treatment for everybody who gets ingrown hair.

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I enjoyed my facial and I was treated well. Durea my skin therapist had me fill in a form, we spoke about skin concerns and we took a before picture, so we can track progress for my next treatments. I did not experience any severe breakouts after the facial and extractions. My skin felt softer after the third day. She gave good advice on how to maintain it, what non-pore clogging make up to use. I look forward to my Mesoglow facial with her at my next appointment.

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