Acne

Consultations for Acne-Prone Skin

If you experience acne-prone skin, understanding the contributing factors and available management options is the first step. This guide explores the different presentations of acne, common contributing factors, and the types of consultations available. At Shellharbour Skin, we provide consultations to discuss a variety of approaches, which may include Advanced Chemical Peels, LED therapy, and various light and laser-based platforms like Sciton BBL, Cutera Excel V, and Alma Hybrid.

For individuals with concerns about acne scarring, consultations may also cover tethered-scar (subcision) techniques and fractional CO₂ laser-based discussions. All treatments are discussed in the context of suitability, expected experience, recovery considerations, and practitioner scope.

Types of Acne:

Acne is a common skin condition that can present in many ways across all skin types. It can manifest in various forms, including:

• Whiteheads and Blackheads: Comedones are a common type of acne lesion that form when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. They can appear as whiteheads (closed comedones) or blackheads (open comedones) on the surface of the skin.
• Papules and Pustules: Inflammatory acne may present as red, tender bumps called papules and pus-filled lesions known as pustules. These are associated with inflammation and bacterial presence within the hair follicles.
• Nodules and Cysts: Some forms of acne may present as deep nodules and cysts beneath the skin’s surface. These can be a significant concern and may be associated with scarring. A consultation can help you understand the available management strategies.

Common Triggers of Acne:

Several factors can contribute to the development of acne, including:

• Hormonal changes, such as puberty, menstruation, and hormonal imbalances, including pregnancy.
• Excess oil production (sebum) because of hormonal activity or genetics.
• Bacterial overgrowth, particularly Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes) bacteria.
• Clogged pores from dead skin cells, dirt, and makeup.
• Inflammation, which can be influenced by factors like stress, diet, and environmental pollutants.

Exploring Management Options for Acne:

Managing acne-prone skin involves a personalised approach discussed during a consultation. Some of the options that can be explored include:

• Topical Skincare: During a consultation, we can discuss over-the-counter and prescription creams, gels, and lotions. Ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinoids, and certain topical antibiotics are often discussed as part of a skincare routine to manage factors associated with acne, such as surface oil and bacterial presence.

• Oral Medications: For some people, oral prescription medications may be considered.

• These are discussed only by, or under the supervision of, a registered medical practitioner and require a thorough assessment of suitability, contraindications, and ongoing review

• Advanced Consultation Topics:
  • Advanced Chemical Peels: Consultations on Advanced Chemical Peels involve discussing the use of exfoliating agents such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), or trichloroacetic acid (TCA). The discussion will cover how these peels work, the expected experience, and their role in a broader skincare plan.
  • LED Therapy: Consultations may include a discussion of Light-emitting diode (LED) therapy. We can explain how specific wavelengths of light are used and what the experience of a session is like. We will also cover potential side effects and the typical recovery process.
  • Skin Laser Consultations: You may discuss technologies such as BroadBand Light (BBL), Excel V, or Alma Hybrid.

These consultations explain how energy-based devices interact with the skin, potential targets of therapy, and what to expect during and after a session in terms of comfort and recovery.

Consultations for Acne Scarring:

If you have concerns about the appearance of acne scars, a consultation is the best way to explore the available options and understand what might be suitable for you. Some approaches that may be discussed include:

• Consultations for Tethered Scars: This type of consultation involves discussing a technique also known as subcision, the concept of releasing fibrous bands that can tether the skin surface. The focus is on explaining how the procedure is performed, potential risks (including bruising, swelling, or discomfort), and the expected recovery process and how it may be used to address certain types of indented scars.
• CO2 Laser-Based Consultations: Consultations for Acne Scarring may include exploring fractional CO2 laser-based options. We will cover how this technology directs energy to the skin and discuss the skin’s natural response processes. This includes a full overview of the associated recovery period and how this approach can be part of a plan to address the appearance of acne scars.

Risks and Considerations

All procedures and skincare products carry potential risks. These may include:

• Temporary redness, dryness, or irritation
• Bruising or swelling
• Pigmentary changes or photosensitivity
• Allergic or sensitivity reactions (rare)
• Scarring or infection (very uncommon)

Your clinician will review these considerations in detail and provide guidance for safe product use, aftercare, and recovery.

All consultations and procedures are performed or supervised by registered health practitioners or qualified dermal clinicians working within their professional scope of practice.

Conclusion:

Understanding acne-prone skin is the first step toward making informed decisions about your care. By exploring the contributing factors and the range of available options, you can create a personalised management strategy. This guide is designed to provide foundational knowledge on topics from skincare ingredients to advanced therapies.

A consultation with a clinician at Shellharbour Skin is an opportunity to develop a personalised plan that addresses your unique concerns and goals. We are here to support you in navigating your options and making choices that feel right for you.