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Booking your acne treatment online has always been challenging! Skip the wait and schedule a consultation in just a few clicks.

Get expert advice from the comfort of your home and start your journey toward clearer, healthier skin today.

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Personalised Acne Treatment

Say goodbye to one-size-fits-all solutions! Our online acne treatment service provides tailored plans based on your skin’s unique needs.

From professional skincare guidance to prescription treatments, we’ll help you achieve glowing, confident skin.

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Struggling with acne? You’re not alone. Our online treatment service ensures continuous support from dedicated professionals.

Get answers to your questions, progress check-ins, and updated advice—all to keep your skin-care journey on the right track.

Medically Reviewed

By

Chrysoula I. Liakou

MD, PhD, Internal Medicine Specialist and
Cancer Immunology Researcher.

What is Acne ?

Acne is a prevalent skin condition when your pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, bacteria, or dirt. This blockage can lead to the development of blackheads, whiteheads, or pimples, which are often inflamed and sometimes painful. While acne is most common among teenagers due to hormonal changes, it can affect people of all ages, including adults.

 

Acne typically appears on the face but can also appear on other areas like the back, chest, shoulders, and neck. For some, it may be a mild condition with occasional breakouts. For others, acne can be more severe, covering large areas of the skin and potentially leaving scars if untreated.

 

This skin condition doesn’t just affect your appearance; it can also impact your confidence and self-esteem. Severe acne or visible scarring may cause emotional distress and, in some cases, contribute to feelings of anxiety or low self-worth.

 

The good news is that acne is easily treatable. Early treatment is critical to managing the condition, preventing scarring, and improving overall skin health. Whether it’s through daily skincare routines, professional advice, or medical treatments, there are many options to help reduce acne and boost your confidence.

Acne Symtoms

Acne can appear almost anywhere on the body, but the most common areas affected are the face, chest, back, shoulders, and neck. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and depend on the type of acne and its severity.

Common acne symptoms include:

  • Whiteheads: Small, closed pores that appear as white spots under the skin.
  • Blackheads: Open pores with a dark surface caused by trapped oil and dead skin.
  • Papules: Small, red or discoloured bumps that may feel tender.
  • Pustules (Pimples): Red bumps with a white or yellow pus-filled centre.
  • Nodules: Large, painful lumps beneath the surface of the skin.
  • Cysts: Painful, pus-filled lumps deep under the skin can lead to scarring.

Acne can also cause:

  • Skin discolouration: Dark patches (hyperpigmentation) or redness around breakouts.
  • Swelling and tenderness: Areas may feel sore or inflamed to the touch.
  • Rough or uneven texture: Breakouts can leave skin feeling bumpy.

Without treatment, acne can take weeks to heal, and severe forms like nodules or cysts may leave scars. To reduce the chances of scarring, avoid popping pimples and consider early treatment for faster healing and prevention of long-term effects.

Acne Causes

Acne is caused by a combination of factors that affect the skin's pores, leading to pimples, blackheads, or cysts. Understanding these causes can help you manage and prevent breakouts effectively.

The primary causes of acne include:

  • Excess Oil Production: Overactive sebaceous glands produce too much sebum, an oil that lubricates the skin.
  • Clogged Pores: Dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria can accumulate in hair follicles, blocking the pores.
  • Bacterial Growth: Blocked pores provide a breeding ground for bacteria, causing inflammation and redness.
  • Inflammation: Clogged pores can become swollen, leading to visible and sometimes painful pimples.

Acne commonly appears in areas with a high concentration of oil glands, such as the face, chest, back, and shoulders.

Several factors can trigger or worsen acne, including:

  • Hormonal Changes: Hormones like androgens can increase oil production, especially during puberty or in conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
  • Diet: High-carbohydrate foods like bread and chips may worsen acne, though more research is needed to confirm dietary links.
  • Stress: While stress doesn’t directly cause acne, it can aggravate existing breakouts.
  • Medications: Drugs containing corticosteroids, testosterone, or lithium may trigger acne.

By understanding these causes, you can identify potential triggers and take proactive steps to keep your skin clear and healthy

Acne Treatment

Sebaceous glands in your skin produce excess oil than needed. These extra oils combine with dead skin cells and form blockages, eventually developing into tiny pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads.

Bacteria can also enter the trapped oil inside the follicles. When this happens, more prominent inflamed spots begin to occur.

Acne Treatment

Treating acne depends on its severity, with options ranging from over-the-counter remedies to professional treatments for more persistent or severe cases. While improvement takes time, consistent care and the right approach can help manage and reduce breakouts effectively.

Mild Acne

Over-the-counter (OTC) products are often enough for mild acne. These include:

  • Benzoyl Peroxide: Dries out pimples, kills acne-causing bacteria, and prevents new breakouts.
  • Salicylic Acid: Exfoliates the skin and unclogs pores to reduce acne.

Gentle, pH-balanced cleansers can also support clear skin. However, avoid over-washing, as it may worsen acne.

Moderate Acne

Consider professional advice if OTC treatments don’t improve your skin after several weeks. Dermatologists may prescribe:

  • Prescription-strength Benzoyl Peroxide: More potent than OTC versions.
  • Topical Retinoids: Like retinol, they help unclog pores and reduce inflammation.
  • Antibiotics: Topical or oral antibiotics like clindamycin target bacteria and reduce redness.
  • Hormonal Treatments: Birth control pills may help balance hormones that contribute to acne.

Severe Acne

For severe or nodular acne, dermatologists may recommend a combination of treatments:

  • Oral Antibiotics: To control bacteria and inflammation.
  • Isotretinoin (Accutane): A potent vitamin-A derivative for stubborn acne, prescribed when other methods fail.
  • Hormonal Birth Control: Regulates hormone levels to reduce outbreaks.

Other Treatments

For mild acne, you might also explore:

  • Chemical Peels
  • Microdermabrasion
  • Natural Ingredients: Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) or azelaic acid (with a doctor’s advice).

Regardless of the treatment, acne often takes 2–3 months to improve significantly. Sticking to a consistent skincare routine and consulting a dermatologist when needed can make all the difference.

Acne Prevention

Even though you can’t always stop acne, some simple habits can help clear your skin. Here’s how you can reduce breakouts:

1. Wash Your Face Gently

Clean your face twice a day with a mild face wash. Don’t scrub too hard—it can irritate your skin.

Always wash off makeup before going to bed to keep your skin fresh.

2. Don’t Touch Your Face

Try not to touch your face too much. Your hands carry dirt and oil that can clog your pores. Never pop or squeeze pimples—it can cause scars and worsen things.

3. Use the Right Skincare Products

Choose products that say “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free” on the label. These won’t clog your pores. Use a light moisturiser to keep your skin soft without making it oily.

4. Eat Healthy Foods

Eating lots of fruits, veggies, and whole grains can help your skin. Try to cut back on sugary foods like candy and soda, which might make acne worse. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

5. Manage Stress

Stress can make acne worse. Relax by doing things you enjoy, like listening to music, drawing, or playing sports. Deep breaths or meditation can also help.

6. Protect Your Skin from the Sun

Always wear sunscreen if you’re outside. Look for sunscreens for acne-prone skin—these won’t block your pores.

7. Be Gentle with Your Skin

Don’t wash your face too much, as this can make your skin dry and irritated. Avoid harsh scrubs or products that sting.

Following these simple tips can help keep your skin clear and healthy! Mobi Doctor can help you manage and prevent acne with expert online consultations, personalised treatment plans, and professional advice.

 

 

 

 

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