Acne Rosacea

Acne rosaca is an extremely common problem that can appear as mild redness around the nose and cheeks to severe redness, bumpiness and dilated pores. Typically it flares up in cold weather or after consuming alcohol, coffee or spicy food. The exact cause is unknown but it is characterised by dilated blood vessels and sebaceous glands.

Laser Genesis is a laser procedure that can greatly improve the appearance of acne rosacea, leving skin smoother and clearer. A powerful NdYAG laser targets small blood vessels and collagen in the skin, heating them slowly and gently to reduce redness and smooth skin. The procedure is felt as a pleasant heat that gets more intense but is not painful. There is no peeling or downtime, except for some redness that subsides in about an hour. Six treatments are typically performed for best results.

Acne

Problematic acne can be improved with a combination of TCA chemical peels if suitable, nutritional supplements and dietary advice. Other treatments such as salicylic acid washes and antibiotics also provide good improvements in certain individuals.

A TCA skin peel, usually combined with salicylic acid, peels away the top layer of skin over about 5-7 days to leave skin clearer and smoother. During the procedure the solution is applied to the skin and a burning sensation is felt. A cosmetic doctor will apply the peeling solution until a precise depth has been reached. Usually the skin starts to peel 2 days following the procedure, and continues for 5-7 days depending on the type of peel and your skin type.

Acne Scarring

There is no easy solution for acne scarring but some useful procedures to improve the appearance of skin and smooth the scars somewhat are available. Depending on your skin type, you are advised on the most appropriate treatment or combination of treatments by your doctor.

Laser Genesis improves skin smoothness by heating and stimulating collagen. An NdYAG laser is used to pass thousands of laser pulses at a precise wavelength into the deep layer of skin. Results are gradual and continue to improve for months after the course of treatments is complete. Usually 6-8 treatments are necessary for best results in acne scarring. It is not a painful procedure and there are no after-effects such as peeling--rather a transient redness that disappears in about an hour.

A deep TCA peel removes the outer layer of skin to improve skin smoothness and stimulate collagen. for acne scarring a number of peels at 1-2 month intervals provide best results. There is a burning sensation during the procedure lasting a few minutes only. Peeling begins about 2 days afterwards and continues for 5-7 days. All patients are assessed thoroughly beforehand to discuss the procedure and determine suitability.

For deep acne scars sometimes a procedure called subcision is performed. Under local anaesthesia, a small needle is used to release the depressed skin from underneath, improving the overlying evenness.