The follicle (or pore) becomes blocked with Sebum (oil) which should drain to the skin surface. The bacteria start to grow. This blocked pore is known as a 'microcomedone'. Whether it becomes a 'blackhead' or a 'whitehead' is dependant upon the progress of the blockage. If the blockage remains below the skin surface, it becomes a whitehead.
Where does Acne most commonly appear?
Acne usually occurs on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders.
What causes Acne?
The reasons are unknown however they may include any or a combination of the following:
i) Male Hormone (known as Androgen). This hormone increases in puberty within boys and girls resulting the follicles growing larger and releasing more sebum. Pregnancy or starting or stopping birth control pills can also cause acne.
ii) Heredity is also thought to cause acne.
iii) Diet
iv) Stress
v) Greasy Cosmetics
Who gets Acne?
Acne is most common in persons between 12 -24 years of age and most people do not suffer from acne after their thirties. However some people continue to get Acne in to their fifties. Acne occurs in all races.
How can Laser help with Acne Scarring?
i) A superficial laser may be used to treat irregular scars.
ii) Another kind of laser allows energy to go deeper into the skin and tighten the underlying tissue and plump out depressed scars. Dermabrasion (not to be confused with microdermabrasion), is a form of "sanding down" scars, is sometimes combined with the subsurface laser treatment. Diamond edged wheels are used within the machines that rotate to remove the damaged skin to allow new skin to grow. It takes about half an hour and the skin is usually numbed (or frozen) first. Dermabrasion is best suited to light skinned or very dark skinned persons. The skin will look scraped and there will be swelling, at first. A scab will form and within weeks (usually two weeks) the redness wanes, allowing you to return to work.
iii) Laser Resurfacing (ie. lasabrasion, laser peel or laser vaporization) is another technique used to allow new skin to grow. Penetration depth is more easily controlled by the laser than with other methods. It is more suited to lighter skin (because it can cause uneven skin tones in darker skin.)
After treatment, you will experience redness and swelling. The redness may last several weeks. You will receive an ointment and may be bandaged, in which case the bandage will need to be replaced. The skin may remain ‘pinkish’ for several months afterwards.
