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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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I am really pleased with the treatment I am receiving. It's good to see results when you have invested in a certain routine and products. More-over I am very happy with the treatment I received from my therapist Kayla, especially the advice she has given over the past few months in terms of effectively dealing with my skin. I appreciate the comfortable environment she has created, especially for people with skin conditions. It's very east to be self-conscious but to gave a great therapist helps.

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Treatment prescribed by doctor worked extremely well, progress was evident. Pigmentation was a problem and looking at my skin now, no one would believe that I was an acne sufferer. The follow-ups with the doctor were most appreciated as this gave me confidence that we were on track regarding what the skin was doing both internally and externally.

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diens is flink en altyd profesioneel Vriendelik en behulpsaan Verduidelik altyd procedure en kan die produk en diens wat gekuer wad is baie goed

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Therapist was very friendly and helpful . Explained all the steps as she was doing the facial . also gave me good advice on how to treat and care for my break outs . I did feel like an individual rather than a mere client coming in for a treatment .

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A lovely, relaxed atmosphere. Sharon really gave me valuable information as the process went along . a real Gem very professional

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The days after my Mango Peel treatment my skin felt much smoother than before. I also noticed the texture being more even. I'm looking forward to the result of further treatments!

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The treatment helped a lot with my acne problem and I feel refreshed. My skin feels alive and renewed. I would definitely recommend this treatment to anyone dealing with acne and scarring. It is not painful at all, you can nap through the entire treatment!

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This is my fourth/fith time here and it's because it's the best facial I've ever had. Liza cleans even the faintest hint of a blackhead and proceeds to masks, massage my face and neck leaving me feeling heavenly!

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My treatments with Liza has always been a pleasure even where pain is involved. Liza is professional and really cares about her clients. She has always satisfied and even exceeded my expectations. There is nothing negative which I am able to say. I'd like to think that the results of her treatments speak for itself.

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First time coming to Skin Renewal I was welcomed with warm hands, the service was brilliant. The treatment does help a lot, I saw the difference in 2-3 months. Landa is the best therapist ever. She helped me a lot and now I feel comfortable in my own skin, all the confidence is back because of the best treatment she was giving me.

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