Dealing with Acne

What is Acne?

Acne is a common skin condition that affects a large percentage of people the world over. It is caused by pimples which form as a result of hair follicles under the skin clogging up. The condition occurs primarily on the face, however can also occur on the neck, shoulders, back and chest.

Acne can affect anyone but it is most common in adolescents and young adults. It is not a serious condition but if left untreated acne can leave permanent scaring on the skin and can also cause the sufferer psychological damage in the form of low self esteem and depression.

What causes Acne?

The causes of acne are complex and multi-factorial. Hormone changes, like those that adolescents experience, are the main cause of acne (including the most common type – acne vulgaris). Increases in bacterial count (primarily hyperseborrhea and pilosebaceous colonization with P. acnes) also play an important role and act as a major cause of acne. A reduction of these two factors can improve the severity of acne in patients.

There are a number of myths surrounding acne and its causes. The most common myths are that poor diet and dirty skin cause acne, both of which are false. Another common myth is that stress causes acne. While this is not the case stress can make already existing acne worse.

What treatments are available?

The management of acne remains a challenge for sufferers. There are a number of medications and creams available for acne. Some of these treatments are linked to significant side effects which can be a real problem for sufferers.

Phototherapy acne treatment, or blue light therapy, offers sufferers an effective, safe, and non-invasive alternative to these treatments. Blue light therapy consists of exposure to specific wavelengths of light for a prescribed amount of time. It is one of the few FDA approved photonic treatments available and has been proven in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Blue light therapy is 100% natural, painless, has no reported side effects, and has been shown to decrease bacterial count in acne prone skin.

Blue light therapy takes between five and ten sessions depending on the severity of the acne. Each session takes 60 minutes and includes a five step process of a facial wash, facial massage, facial mask, ultrasonic introduction treatment, and lastly the blue light therapy.

Written by Guo Chunying, MD
Shanghai United Family Hospital
#1139 Xian Xia Road, Changning District
Appointment Tel: (021) 2216 3922 or (021) 2216 3936

Dr. Guo Chun Ying received her degree in medicine and medical technology from Jilin University in 1999 and completed further study at Harbin University Hospital. She has experience in dermatology, laser treatment and diagnosing and treating many types of skin disorders. Before joining Shanghai United Family Hospital, Dr. Guo specialized in patient consultation and full body laser treatment.