Acne

Acne results from a change in the way in which keratin is laid down in the hair follicle, with the keratin becoming denser, and blocking the secretion of sebum. This hyper-keratinisation produces a sterile inflammatory response, and the result is the plugging of the follicle causing a white head.

Acne is also caused by the bodies increased production of the hormone androgen which stimulates the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. The increased production of oil causes the pores to become blocked so that the oil cannot come to the skin surface.

Acne is an infection caused by a bacterium that feed on and breakdown this oil. As the bacterium multiply, waste products and sebacic acid are created and irritate the sebaceous glands which become inflamed causing a black head, pimple or nodule.

With more severe acne the distended wall of the follicle may break and the contents may enter the dermis provoking a foreign body response of inflammation. This rupture of the follicle can cause intense inflammation which can lead to scarring.

Factors that can aggravate acne.

  • A humid environment with oil, chemicals or dirt

  • Physical or emotional stress

  • Scratching or squeezing the infected area

  • A women going through a monthly period

  • Certain types of medication

  • Hormonal conditions or imbalances

IPL & Acne.

The treatment with the NRG ICE works in two ways:

  • The light targets the porphyrins produced by the bacteria in the skin. A photo dynamic action occurs and produces the free radical single oxygen which performs a selective destruction of the acne itself. With successive treatments the rate of acne destruction can become greater than the growth of the bacteria leading to a reduction in the inflamed lesions and prevent further traumatic scarring.

  • The light is absorbed into the blood vessels which supply the sebaceous glands. By heating up the capillaries this will reduce the blood flow to the sebaceous glands and decrease the over production of oil in the skin.

Recommended Treatment Regime.

One month prior to treatment a skin care routine of glycolic acid, AHA's or a retinal based cream can be started. An exfoliating facial one month prior to treatment can be helpful.

Four treatments are recommended initially every three weeks. This routine can be repeated again if necessary to achieve further results. Maintenance treatments are also recommend.

Clients

It is important that you should avoid the following for at least 30 days prior to treatment:

  • Do not sunbath or use sunbed

  • Avoid self tanning products

For 7 days before hand:

  • Do not have electrolysis

  • Do not wax

  • Do not bleach or use depilatory cream

  • Do not use anti inflammatory medication

  • Do not smoke 4 hours before treatment

A patch test and detailed consultation and consent form must be completed a week prior to commencing a course of treatment.

Combination Therapy.

Adapalene is the active substance in the products marked as Redap and Differin. The products are available as a cream or gel. When used in combination with NRG ICE these products can begin to normalise the skins thickness allowing greater light penetration.

As with all pharmaceutical medications, use should always adhere to the detailed instructions.

Post treatment care.

Following treatment for at least 30 days the following action should be taken:

  • Avoid exposure to sun and sunbeds

  • Wear a minimum of SPF30 when outdoors

Clients should avoid the following up to 48 hours after treatment:

  • No cosmetic or perfumed products

  • No swimming or using the gym/exercising

  • No sauna, steam room or hot baths

  • No scratching picking or touching the area

  • Use Aloe vera if necessary

What can I expect after treatment.

Clients may notice some general redness on the face, following the treatment pigmentated areas may appear darker and eventually disappear.

Does it hurt.

Pain tolerance is very individual form person to person. Many patients describe the sensation as a warming sensation similar to a day on the beach.

Am I suitable for IPL treatment?

The following conditions unfortunately cannot be treated

  • Epilepsy

  • Lupas

  • History of keloid scarring

  • Cancer

  • Pregnant or breast feeding

  • Hypo pigmentation

  • Active tan

  • Pacemaker

The following conditions require a doctors permission:

  • Cardiac condition

  • Steroids

  • Bleeding disorders

  • Clotting disorders

  • Diabetes

  • Acutane medications

  • Photo sensitive medications

  • Chloasma

If in doubt please contact your GP