Acne Treatment in Point Cook
Acne is common at any age and can affect how you feel as well as how your skin looks. Acne treatment is among the skin services at the clinic, and controlling inflamed acne early lowers the risk of lasting scars.
Blocked follicles and inflammation
Oil glands attached to hair follicles make sebum. When extra oil and dead skin cells plug a follicle, a blackhead or whitehead forms. Bacteria and inflammation can then turn it into a red pimple, or into deeper, painful lumps called nodules and cysts.
Breakouts mainly affect the face, chest, upper back and shoulders, where oil glands are most numerous. Although acne peaks during adolescence, it often continues into the twenties and thirties, and adult acne in women commonly clusters around the jaw and chin.
What makes breakouts worse
- Hormone changes in the teenage years, around periods, in pregnancy, or with polycystic ovary syndrome
- A family history of acne
- Some medicines, such as corticosteroids
- Heavy or oily skin products and hair products
- Sweat and friction from helmets, backpack straps or tight collars
- Picking, squeezing or scrubbing spots
How acne treatment usually steps up
Poor hygiene does not cause acne, and harsh washing tends to irritate skin further. Treatment is matched to severity:
- Mild acne often starts with non-prescription creams, gels or washes from a pharmacy
- Moderate acne may call for prescription treatments applied to the skin, sometimes with a course of oral antibiotics
- Hormonal treatment, including some contraceptive pills, can suit certain women
- Severe, scarring or stubborn acne may need a dermatologist, who can offer stronger options; a GP referral is needed to claim a Medicare rebate for that visit
Giving treatment time to work
Improvement usually takes 6 to 12 weeks, so sticking with a plan and returning for review matters. Skin often feels dry or irritated when a new cream or gel is started; this tends to settle, and a smaller amount used less often at first can help. Once skin has cleared, ongoing treatment is commonly recommended to keep acne from returning.
Some acne medicines are unsafe in pregnancy. Tell the doctor if you are pregnant, trying to conceive or could become pregnant, and bring a list of products and medicines already used.
Marks versus scars
After a pimple settles it can leave a flat red, pink or brown mark. That is not a true scar, and it usually fades over several months, though sun exposure can make it linger. Pitted or raised scars are more likely after deep, inflamed acne. Once acne is controlled, established scars can be discussed, including whether a dermatologist referral is worthwhile.
Everyday skin habits
- Wash gently twice a day with a mild, soap-free cleanser
- Choose moisturisers, sunscreen and make-up labelled non-comedogenic or oil-free
- Leave spots alone rather than picking or squeezing them
- Protect skin from the sun, especially if a treatment makes it more sensitive
Signs it is time for prescription treatment
Pharmacy products that have not helped after two to three months, painful lumps, and spots leaving marks or scars are all good reasons to book in.
Acne can also take a toll on confidence. If your skin is leaving you feeling low, anxious or withdrawn, mention it at the appointment. GP care for mood, anxiety and stress is available through our mental health services, alongside treatment for the skin itself.
Fees and bulk billing
Out-of-pocket fees apply to most consultations, and each practitioner sets their own fees. Bulk billing is available with all our doctors for Veterans’ Affairs patients, pensioners over 65, childhood and adult immunisations and GP care plans. See our fees page or call reception before you book.