Medical Information

What is Acne Vulgaris?

While acne is often seen as a cosmetic issue, its effects go beyond just the appearance of the skin. For many people, acne can cause emotional distress and impact self-confidence, especially if left untreated. The severity of acne can vary, with some individuals experiencing only mild breakouts, while others may deal with persistent and painful flare-ups that affect both their skin and their quality of life.

Medical Definition

Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil (sebum) and dead skin cells, leading to the formation of comedones, papules, pustules, and in severe cases, nodules and cysts.

  • Affects the pilosebaceous unit (hair follicle and sebaceous gland)
  • Involves four main pathogenic factors: sebum production, follicular hyperkeratinization, bacterial colonization, and inflammation
  • Most commonly appears on face, chest, and back where sebaceous glands are most active
  • Can range from mild comedonal acne to severe nodulocystic acne
  • Often begins during puberty but can persist into adulthood
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Medical illustration of acne vulgaris formation in hair follicles
Types & Treatment

Types of Acne: Causes & Treatment

Understanding different types of acne is crucial for effective treatment. Each type requires a specific approach based on its severity and underlying causes.

Acne Type Description Symptoms Focus of Treatment Treatment Options
Blackheads Mild

Open clogged pores (dark spots)

Small black dots on the skin surface

Clear out pores and reduce extra oil so new blackheads don't form

Salicylic Acid Retinoids Extractions
Whiteheads Mild

Closed clogged pores (not exposed to air)

Small white or skin-colored bumps

Keep pores from getting blocked and help skin shed dead cells properly

Benzoyl Peroxide Tretinoin Glycolic Acid
Papules Moderate

Inflamed bumps without pus

Red, sore bumps

Calm down the inflammation and stop bacteria from spreading

Antibiotics Benzoyl Peroxide Topical Retinoids
Pustules Moderate

Red bumps with pus in the center

Swollen, with a yellow or white center

Fight bacteria and reduce swelling to prevent more breakouts

Oral Antibiotics Topical Treatments Anti-inflammatory
Nodules Severe

Hard, painful lumps deep under the skin

Larger and painful bumps that don't go away quickly

Treat deeper skin infections and stop future scarring

Isotretinoin Corticosteroids Oral Antibiotics
Cysts Severe

Big, pus-filled breakouts deep in the skin

Soft, painful, and often leave scars

Get rid of deep infection fast and lower the chance of permanent marks

Isotretinoin Drainage Corticosteroids

Ready to get personalized treatment for your specific acne type? Our dermatologists will create a customized plan just for you.

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Velantis Care

Our Comprehensive Acne Care Approach

At Velantis, our aim is not just to address current breakouts but to prevent future flare-ups and promote long-term skin health.

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Topical Treatments

Creams or gels directly applied to the skin that gently unclog pores, reduce excess oil, calm inflammation, and prevent new breakouts.

  • Retinoids for cell turnover and pore clearing
  • Benzoyl peroxide for bacteria reduction
  • Salicylic acid for gentle exfoliation
  • Niacinamide for oil control and soothing
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Oral Medications

Pills like antibiotics or hormone therapies for persistent or moderate-to-severe acne that address deeper skin factors.

  • Antibiotics for inflammatory acne
  • Hormonal treatments for women
  • Isotretinoin for severe cases
  • Prescribed only after dermatologist consultation
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Advanced In-Clinic Procedures

Professional treatments performed in our clinic for comprehensive acne management and long-term prevention.

  • Chemical peels for skin renewal
  • Laser therapy for oil gland reduction
  • Professional extractions for deep blockages
  • Light therapy for bacteria targeting
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Ongoing Support & Home Care

Regular follow-ups with your dermatologist plus personalised guidance on skincare and lifestyle changes for long-term clarity.

  • Monthly progress assessments
  • Treatment plan adjustments
  • Skincare routine optimization
  • Lifestyle and dietary guidance
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Do's

  • Wash your face gently twice a day
  • Use oil-free, non-comedogenic products
  • Apply treatments to clean, dry skin
  • Give treatments 6-8 weeks to work
  • Change pillowcases regularly
  • Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated
  • Get enough sleep and manage stress
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Don'ts

  • Pick, pop or squeeze spots
  • Scrub too hard or over-wash
  • Using too many acne treatments at once
  • Skip moisturiser, even if your skin's oily
  • Share makeup or skincare tools
  • Have too much dairy or sugar
  • Use dirty brushes or sponges
  • Ignore acne that isn't improving

Ready to Start Your Clear Skin Journey?

Get personalized acne care strategies and treatment plans from our board-certified dermatologists. Start with a consultation to understand your unique skin needs.

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Velantis Dermatology

Why Choose Velantis Dermatology?

Velantis offers dermatologist-led care, guided by clinical evidence and focused on your skin's health. We take the time to understand your skin's needs rather than just addressing surface-level symptoms.

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Specialist Diagnosis

You'll meet with a certified dermatologist who takes the time to understand your skin's history, patterns, and triggers. This isn't a rushed consultation; it's the start of a proper plan.

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Personalised, Evidence-Based Solutions

Everything we recommend is grounded in medical science and personalised to your skin. From medication to in-clinic treatments, we'll explain each step and why it matters.

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Balanced Clinical + Aesthetic Focus

Whether it's addressing a skin condition like acne or enhancing your skin's appearance, we take a balanced approach with equal focus on clinical outcomes and aesthetic improvements.

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Advanced, Ethical Treatments

We offer advanced treatments, like chemical peels and laser therapy, in a controlled, medically sound environment that prioritises your safety and long-term results.

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Continuous Care & Transparent Guidance

Your journey with us doesn't stop at the treatment room. We offer continuous follow-up care and provide clear guidance to support long-term skin health.

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A Trusted, Ethical Brand

Known locally for our commitment to ethical, professional dermatology, we stand apart from non-medical skin setups by focusing on proven, safe treatments.

If you're living with acne, you know it can take up more space than it should, in your mirror, your thoughts, your confidence. We see that. And we take it seriously.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Results can vary, but many people start to see improvements in 4-8 weeks with consistent treatment under professional care.

Yes, treatments are personalised to your skin type for maximum safety and effectiveness.

Absolutely. Proper diagnosis and personalised treatment by a qualified dermatologist are essential for successful acne management.

While acne can often be significantly reduced and controlled, maintaining clear skin requires ongoing care and prevention.

Yes, we provide regular follow-ups to monitor progress and modify treatment plans as needed for the best results.

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