Laser & Aesthetics Sheffield
ACNE
You don't have to let acne affect your confidence.
ReWork offers a range of successful acne treatments to leave your skin clear and blemish free. Acne can be effectively treated with IPL alone or in combination with other clinical treatments such as our IllumiFacial®. Intense Pulsed Light treatments greatly reduce the number and severity of active lesions, lessening the inflammation and frequency of break-outs.
Pricing starts from £75, drop us a message to book in your free consultation.
How it works
IPL treatment is a fast, effective procedure for acne treatment. The light from the IPL device interacts with Porphoryn, an element of our biological pigments. The reaction caused releases oxygen, which helps kill the bacteria causing the acne. The IPL treatment also stimulates the production of new collagen, which helps repair the damage caused by an acne infection. IPL usually results in a long term improvement of the skin and of overall skin health and texture.
What Causes Acne?
The presence of acne is often influenced by the following factors:
Influence #1: Hormones
For the majority of acne sufferers, outbreaks begin at puberty because the body begins to produce hormones called androgens. These hormones cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge, which is a natural part of the body's development but for acne sufferers these glands are over stimulated. Androgens are also responsible for acne flare-ups associated with the menstrual cycle and, on occasion, pregnancy.
Influence #2: Oily Skin
When the sebaceous gland is stimulated by androgens, it produces extra sebum (oil). Sebum mixes with common skin bacteria and dead skin cells that have been shed from the lining of the follicle. While this process is normal, the presence of extra oil in the follicle increases the chances of clogging and can cause acne. Stress levels can also affect the severity of acne.
Influence #3: Bacteria
The bacterium Propionibacterium acnes, is present on all skins and is part of the skins natural sebum maintenance system. Once a follicle is plugged, the bacteria multiply rapidly, creating inflammation in the follicle and surrounding skin.
Influence #4: Inflammation
When you are exposed to unwanted bacteria your immune system sends in an army of white blood cells to attack. This is why pimples can be red, swollen and painful. The inflammatory response is different for everyone, fortunately you have options, there are many kinds of acne treatments available. Like you, acne is highly individual and response to treatments does vary from person to person.
Frequently asked questions
How is the treatment carried out?
A layer of chilled gel is applied to the skin to help guide the light. The light guide is placed onto the skin and a short pulse of light is released. The applicator is passed over the skin several times before moving onto the neighbouring area and the process is repeated until the whole area is treated. Each pulse of light treats a large area of skin and so the duration of the treatment is very short. The gel is removed and the skin is moisturised. During treatment protective eye wear must be worn and will be provided.
Am I suitable for treatment?
Almost everyone can be treated, apart from very dark skinned or tanned individuals. If you are pregnant or taking Roaccutane™ (an acne medication) it is best not to undergo laser or Intense Pulsed Light treatment.
How does the treatment feel?
Treatment maybe mildly uncomfortable but no anaesthesia is required. Many people describe the sensation as similar to the "flick of an elastic band."
What should I expect after the treatment?
Immediately after treatment the skin may appear red and a warm tingling sensation
may be felt. Typically the skin is cooled to ease any discomfort and a calming gel is
applied.
Are there any side effects?
The treated area can become quite red immediately after treatment but this usually disappears within a couple of hours. Most people experience no other side effects but very rarely a small blister could form or the skin may become temporarily lighter or darker.
How long does treatment take?
A typical treatment session is approximately 30 minutes.
How many treatments are necessary?
The number of treatments necessary varies from person to person, but typically 6 Intense Pulsed Light and 6 exfoliating treatments will result in a significant improvement.
Consultation Procedure
Prior to treatment you must first undergo a consultation where details about your medical history are obtained in order to confirm suitability. Before proceeding you will be asked to sign a consent form and undergo a test patch.