Clinical Clarifying Facial

Acne is a common skin condition that involves the hair follicle and its associated sebaceous (oil) gland. It is commonly characterised by papules that are referred to as ‘spots’. The spots can range from comedones (blackheads & whiteheads), which are often mild to inflamed, pus-filled lesions such as papules, pustules and nodules (cysts). Inflamed acne is more severe and can lead to scarring. The most common type of acne is known as acne vulgaris. Although acne is not dangerous, it does have far-reaching social and psychological effects.

Acne is caused by the skin’s sensitivity to a fluctuation in hormones. The skin reacts by causing a fatty acid depletion, which upsets the protective barrier on the surface of the skin. The skin tries to counteract this by producing excess oil to rebuild the depleted barrier. The skin’s surface then starts to thicken and normal skin shedding slows down. The combination of these two factors causes an accumulation of dead skin cells and oil within the pore. This plug or blockage is known as a comedone. The acne bacteria, P.acnes, which is naturally present on the skin, builds up under the comedone causing inflammation which leads to the formation of papules, pustules or cysts. It is important when treating acne to address each of these contributing factors and not just the symptoms.

The Clinical Clarifying Acne facial begins with a thorough skin consultation, concentrating on helping you understand what is contributing to your acne so it can be treated accordingly. Emphasis is placed on both lifestyle and skincare advice to help you reach your goal of a clearer complexion. Your treatment is then designed specifically for your acne symptoms and skin concerns. The severity of your acne, the amount of inflammation present and the strength of your skin’s barrier function determine the approach that is taken when designing your treatment.

A combination of the latest advanced superficial skin peels and cosmeceutical grade products are considered. These advanced techniques smooth the skin’s texture, promote healthy cell renewal, remove impurities and excess oil and help calm inflammation to facilitate healing.

Most importantly, attention is placed on extensive extractions followed by the use of blue LED light to help clear existing spots whilst helping to prevent post-facial breakouts. Additionally, the skin is detoxified by a gentle lymphatic drainage massage, which helps to transport away toxins and bacteria to help regenerate the damaged tissue. The Clinical Acne facial is individual to you and may differ with each subsequent appointment depending on your concerns and your skin’s health.

Once your acne is under control, Dermapen microneedling or nano fractional radio frequency can be performed to combat acne scarring, reduce pore size and improve skin texture. This also has the added benefit of helping to support your skin through the natural ageing process.

Long-term results and skin maintenance are achieved by continued regular advanced clinical treatments accompanied by a preventative, corrective and protective homecare programme.

There is no downtime after the Clinical Clarifying Acne facial. Normal activities can be resumed immediately, although it is not recommended to exercise within 24 hours if extensive extractions have been performed.