ACNE treatments

Acne results from a change in the way in which is laid down in the hair follicle, with the keratin becoming denser, and blocking the secretion of sebum. This hyper-keratinisation produces a sterile inflammatory response and a resultant plugging of the follicle causing a whitehead(close comedone)

Acne is also caused by the body’s increased production of the hormone androgen (produced by both men and women) which stimulates the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. The increased production of oil causes the pores to become blocked so that the oil cannot come up to the skin’s surface.

Factors that can aggravete acne:

  • A humid environment with oil, chemicals or dirt
  • Stress; emotional or physical
  • Scratching or squeezing the infected area
  • A woman going through a monthly period
  • Certain types of medication
  • Hormonal conditions/imbalances

How does the Ellipse treatment work?

Ellipse acne treatment is aimed specifically at the treatment of superficial inflammatory acne.

The acne treatment works in 2 ways:

The light targets the porphyrins produced by the bacteria that cause the acne, destruction of these porphyrins will produce free oxygen radicals and a bactericidal effect is induced to reduce  the acne infection. The light is also absorbed by the haemoglobin in the superficial blood vessels that supply the sebaceous glands and destruction of these will slow down the over production of oil that leads to acne.

The heat reaction produced will also stimulate collagen production to increase healing of the acne lesions and may even soften the appearance of scarring.

Does it hurt?

Tolerance of pain is very individual from person to person. Many patients describe the sensation as a warming sensation similar to the feeling one has after a day on the beach.

Do I need take special precautions before and after treatment?

The acne treatment is a combination therapy. We recommended you use ADAPLENE cream or gel. Because the bacteria is difficult to eradicate completely, your doctor will probably recommend that you continue using adaplene cream or gel some months after the treatment has ended.  Sun exposure should be avoided 30-60 days before and after treatment.

How many treatment recommended?

a course of 4 treatments is recommended with 2-3 week intervals.