Acne scars are marks left on the skin after acne has healed. Their appearance is related to the body’s natural healing process after an acne lesion has formed. The body produces collagen to repair the affected area but inconsistencies in the amount of collagen produced during this process can lead to different types of scars.
Acne is a skin concern that develops when pores or hair follicles become congested with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. The skin produces sebum (oil) naturally, but when the production is excessive, it can lead to blocked pores. This creates an environment where bacteria, such as Propionibacterium acnes, thrive, leading to inflammation.
Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, or due to certain medications can trigger excess sebum production, making acne more likely. External factors like stress, diet, and poor skincare routines can also contribute to breakouts. Left untreated, acne can result in scarring.
Whiteheads occur when hair follicles, or pores, become clogged. Since the pore remains closed, the blockage appears as a small white or flesh-coloured bump on the skin’s surface.
Clogged pores also cause blackheads, but the pore remains open, unlike whiteheads. The material trapped inside (oil and dead skin cells) is exposed to air and undergoes oxidation, which turns it dark, giving blackheads their characteristic appearance.
Papules are small, red bumps that grow when a blocked pore becomes irritated, leading to the surrounding skin swelling with inflammation. Papules do not contain pus and feel firm to the touch.
Pustules are like papules but contain pus at their centre, giving them a white or yellow appearance. They are inflamed lesions with a red base and a white or yellow head, indicating the presence of an infection or immune response.
Nodules are large, painful lumps that form deep beneath the skin. Nodules develop when the blockage of sebum (oil) and dead skin cells occurs deeper within the hair follicle. This deep blockage results in inflammation within the dermis layer of the skin. Nodules are often hard to the touch.
Cysts are the most severe form of acne. They develop deep under the skin, but unlike nodules, cysts are filled with pus and are softer to the touch. Deep infections within the hair follicles cause cystic acne and involve severe inflammation. Cysts are large, red, painful, and can take weeks or even months to heal.
The price of acne scar treatment will vary according to treatment type, the clinic, and the number of sessions required. In Singapore, the cost of non-invasive treatments such as chemical peels or microneedling typically range from $150 to $400 per session, while more advanced procedures like laser treatments may cost between $300 and $1,500 per session.
At DermAlly, specialised acne scar treatments address various skin types and scar severities. Using technology like Pico laser, Sylfirm, and Morpheus 8, we tailor treatments to each patient’s unique needs. Each treatment plan begins with a thorough consultation to assess the type and depth of scarring.
Customised treatment regimens ensure patients receive the most effective solution for their skin, helping them achieve smoother, clearer skin and regain confidence.
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