Acne is one of the most prevalent skin conditions managed in a dermatology setting. It ranges in presentation from mild comedonal congestion to severe inflammatory nodular acne, and its impact extends well beyond the physical, often affecting confidence and quality of life in a meaningful way.
What Causes Acne
Acne develops through an interaction of several factors: excess sebum production, abnormal shedding of skin cells within hair follicles, colonisation by Cutibacterium acnes bacteria, and the inflammatory response that follows. The relative contribution of each factor varies between individuals.
Hormonal influences are a significant driver of acne for many patients. Puberty is the most common hormonal trigger, as rising androgen levels stimulate sebaceous gland activity and are the primary reason acne develops in adolescence. For some adults, hormonal fluctuations continue to influence acne activity, particularly in women, where cycle-related changes, pregnancy, or hormonal contraception may play a role.
Genetics, skincare product choice, and environmental factors also contribute. The relationship between diet and acne remains an area of active research, with high glycaemic load diets having the most consistent supporting evidence in some patients.
Treatment Options
Effective acne management typically requires a combination of approaches, and the practitioner will develop a programme tailored to the type, severity, and drivers of each patient’s acne.
Dermatologist-prescribed oral therapies
Dermatologist-prescribed oral therapies are the cornerstone of the prescription arsenal for acne and represent a significant clinical advantage of the dermatologist-led model at Aecera. Certain oral therapies are only available on prescription from a medical practitioner and, when indicated, can produce outcomes for skin health that are not achievable through topical or device-based treatments alone.
MLA handpiece
The MLA handpiece for the Enlighten SR treats early acne scarring through fractional energy delivery that stimulates collagen remodelling. It is used as an adjacent treatment once active acne has been adequately controlled. For more established acne scarring, please refer to the Acne Scarring page.
Enlighten SR pico laser
The Enlighten SR pico laser is used in the management of acne-related pigmentation and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Its multi-wavelength capability makes it effective for improving skin clarity and tone in post-acne skin.
Laser Genesis
Laser Genesis provides a gentle option for reducing redness and improving overall skin quality in patients with mild to moderate acne or rosacea-associated congestion.
Your Consultation
At consultation, the practitioner will assess acne type and severity, identify any hormonal or lifestyle contributors, and develop a treatment plan that addresses the condition comprehensively. For patients seeking improvement in post-acne skin quality or early scarring, in-clinic treatments will be discussed in the context of a broader programme. There is no obligation to proceed. For information about established acne scarring, please see the Acne Scarring page.
