Indications
Skin
ACNE
If you’re experiencing acne, you’re not alone—it's the most common skin condition, affecting about 80% of individuals aged 11 to 30. At The Dream Skin Clinic, we understand that effective acne treatment requires an individualised approach based on the specific type and a of your acne.
Starting your treatment early is key in preventing scarring and achieving optimal results. Our treatment goals focus on healing existing lesions, inhibiting the formation of new ones, and minimising the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Our expert team employs evidence-based strategies to create a personalised treatment plan, ensuring effective acne management and optimal outcomes for you.
COMEDONES
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Comedones are non-inflammatory acne lesions, which include open (blackheads) and closed (whiteheads) comedones.
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Comedones typically appear as small bumps on the skin surface and can be scattered across the face, back, and shoulders.
Blackheads are small, black lesions caused by sebum oxidising at the surface.
Whiteheads are clogged follicles covered by a thin layer of skin that appears as white bumps or spots.
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Your skin cells normally shed at the surface, allowing new skin cells to form. Sometimes, dead skin cells can get trapped within the hair follicles. When combined with the natural oils in your pores (sebum), a plug can form.
This type of acne primarily affects adults with oily skin. It’s also more common in people who smoke.
Other risk factors/triggers for comedonal acne include:
High dairy consumption
Diet that consists of a lot of fats and sugars
Overhydrated skin, usually from using the wrong moisturisers
Low linoleate in sebum, leading to scaling
High levels oft he male hormone 5-testosterone (DHT) in skin cells
Inflammatory proteins, such as Interleukin 1 (IL-1) and IL-8, produced by follicle cells when the immune system is activated
Fatty acids created from sebum by acne bacteria
Follicle injury from “picking” skin, squeezing pimples, or using harsh physical exfoliant
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Treating comedonal acne on your own can be tricky, so reaching out for professional support is essential for effective care.
Remember, patience is essential when addressing any type of inflammatory acne; it may take a few months to see noticeable improvements from a new treatment.
Long-term management is vital for comedonal acne, as overactive sebaceous glands can continue to produce new comedones
If you have concerns about your acne, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us today and take the first step towards clearer, healthier skin.
ACNE PUSTULE
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Acne pustules are inflamed lesions filled with white, yellow, or cream-colored pus—often resembling whiteheads.
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Pustules tend to occur near oil glands, especially around the face, back, chest, and shoulders. They can vary in size from very small to quite large, and are typically found in clusters.
Pustules are sometimes tender to the touch, unlike non—inflamed acne lesions, such as blackheads and milia.
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Pustules, like other types of acne, occur when pores become clogged with oil, bacteria, or dead skin cells.
They can also also be triggered or aggravated by:
Excess Oil Production
Inflammation
Impaired Skin Barrier
Picking Pimples
Genetic Factors
Hormonal Imbalances
Stress
Smoking
Photosensitising Medications
Exposure to Chemicals
Exposure to Cosmetic-Grade Skincare
High Dairy, Fat, and Sugar Consumption
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Treating Acne Pustules on your own can be tricky, so reaching out for professional support is essential for effective care.
Remember, patience is essential when addressing any type of inflammatory acne; it may take a few months to see noticeable improvements from a new treatment.
Long-term management is vital for comedonal acne, as overactive sebaceous glands can continue to produce new comedones
If you have concerns about your acne, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us today and take the first step towards clearer, healthier skin.
ACNE PAPULE
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Acne papules are small, raised lesions characterised by inflammation, often appearing red and tender to the touch
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Acne papules are solid, inflamed bumps in your skin that are usually cone-shaped. They’re usually smaller than 1cm, and they may be the same colour as your skin or red, brown or purple. They are typically sensitive and can be painful.
Unlike pustules, acne papules do not have visible yellow or white pus. However, within a few days, they may develop pus, at which point they are classified as pustules.
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Acne papule develop when excess oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells push deeper into the skin and cause inflammation (redness and swelling).
If a Comedone ruptures and disperses bacteria into the skin tissue — as opposed to on the skin’s surface — your body will respond with inflammation to fight the bacteria. This inflamed lesion is a Papule.
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Treating Acne Papules on your own can be tricky, so reaching out for professional support is essential for effective care.
Remember, patience is essential when addressing any type of inflammatory acne; it may take a few months to see noticeable improvements from a new treatment.
Long-term management is vital for comedonal acne, as overactive sebaceous glands can continue to produce new comedones
If you have concerns about your acne, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us today and take the first step towards clearer, healthier skin.
ACNE NODULE
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Nodular acne is a severe type of acne. Acne nodules are large, painful, solid lesions that form deep within the skin.
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An acne nodule looks like a small bump under your skin. It may be flesh-coloured, but it can also turn red as the surrounding area gets more inflamed.
Acne nodules can occur on their own or spread over a large area, causing patches of Nodules. They are also sensitive and painful to the touch.
Unlike regular pimples, Nodules tend not to form a head. Attempting to squeeze them will not release pus and may lead to further inflammation.
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Your skin cells normally shed at the surface, allowing new skin cells to form. Sometimes, dead skin cells can get trapped within the hair follicles. When combined with the natural oils in your pores (sebum), a plug can form.
This type of acne primarily affects adults with oily skin. It’s also more common in people who smoke.
Other risk factors/triggers for comedonal acne include:
High dairy consumption
Diet that consists of a lot of fats and sugars
Overhydrated skin, usually from using the wrong moisturisers
Low linoleate in sebum, leading to scaling
High levels oft he male hormone 5-testosterone (DHT) in skin cells
Inflammatory proteins, such as Interleukin 1 (IL-1) and IL-8, produced by follicle cells when the immune system is activated
Fatty acids created from sebum by acne bacteria
Follicle injury from “picking” skin, squeezing pimples, or using harsh physical exfoliant
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Nodular acne is the most severe type of inflammatory acne. It causes solid, painful bumps deep within the skin that require professional treatment. Even with treatment, the nodules can last for weeks or months and often scar.
Treating nodular acne on your own can be tricky, so reaching out for professional support is essential for effective care.
Remember, patience is essential when addressing any type of inflammatory acne; it may take a few months to see noticeable improvements from a new treatment.
Long-term management is vital for comedonal acne, as overactive sebaceous glands can continue to produce new comedones
If you have concerns about your acne, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us today and take the first step towards clearer, healthier skin.
PIGMENTATION
Pigmentation concerns are common across all skin tones and ages. At The Dream Skin Clinic, we understand that each journey with pigmentation is unique, which is why we create treatments tailored specifically to your skin.
Early intervention can make a world of difference, helping to fade existing spots, prevent new ones, and achieve a clear, radiant complexion. With the right support and a targeted treatment plan, you can effectively manage your pigmentation and enhance your skin’s natural glow.
MELASMA
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Melasma is a common skin condition that causes brown or gray-brown patches on the face, neck, arms, or back. It mainly affects women and can worsen with exposure to both UV and visible light, making consistent management important.
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Melasma patches are usually uneven and irregular with undefined edges.
They often appear symmetrically and can look shadow-like, varying in color from light brown to dark brown based on their depth and severity.
The condition typically develops gradually over time.
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Hormonal Changes
Sun Exposure
Genetic Factors
Certain Medications
Exposure to Chemicals
Use of Cosmetic—Grade Skincare Products
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About 90% of people with melasma are women, especially those with ethnic skin.
It’s often linked to hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy, and can occur in users of oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
However, anyone can develop melasma, regardless of age.
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Treating melasma on your own can be difficult, so getting professional help is important. Our team can provide you with the right guidance and treatment options.
Remember—Patience is key when managing melasma; it may take a few months to notice significant improvements. Ongoing care is important since sun exposure and hormonal changes can trigger flare-ups.
If you have concerns about melasma or want to discuss treatment options, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us today and start your journey toward clearer, healthier skin.
LENTIGO
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Lentigo, also known as solar or senile lentigo, is characterised by flat, pigmented spots that develop on the skin, typically as a result of sun exposure and ageing. While some types of lentigo may fade over time, most do not resolve on their own and may require treatment for removal.
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Lentigo spots are oval or round, lentil-shaped, and range in size from 2 to 20 millimeters. They usually have a smooth surface and can be found on areas of the skin that receive frequent sun exposure.
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Lentigo can develop gradually over the years or appear suddenly. The primary causes include:
Ageing
Sun Exposure
Genetic Tendency
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Senile Lentigo: Commonly affects individuals over 50 years old due to the cumulative effects of sun exposure.
Solar Lentigo: Often appears in individuals over 30, particularly in those with low phototype skin.
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While lentigo spots are generally harmless and do not require treatment, cosmetic options are available for those looking to remove them. If you have concerns about your lentigo or want to reduce their appearance, our skilled team is ready to help you explore personalised treatment options tailored to your skin.
EPHELIDES
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Ephelides, commonly known as freckles or sunspots, are small, flat pigmented spots that typically appear on Fitzpatrick skin types I and II (those with lighter hair and skin). They are often found in areas of the skin that receive sun exposure.
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Freckles are usually small, flat, and light brown in colour.
They typically appear on body areas exposed to the sun: face, arms, upper chest, neck and back.
They typically occur in multiples and have a symmetrical appearance.
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Freckles develop due to an increased production of melanin, the pigment responsible for the color of your skin and hair. This increase is mainly triggered by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Key factors that contribute to the formation of freckles include:
Sun Exposure: Frequent exposure to sunlight stimulates melanin production.
Genetic Tendency: Ephelides are often strongly inherited.
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Low phototype skin
Fair skin with blonde or red hair
Highly sensitive to UV radiation
Medication
Exposure to chemicals
Exposure to cosmetic-grade skincare
High dairy, fat, and sugar consumption
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Patience and consistency are essential, as results may take time. Ongoing care is crucial, especially since sun exposure can lead to further pigmentation.
While freckles are typically harmless, it’s essential to monitor any changes in your skin. If you have concerns about your freckles or looking to reduce their appearance, our skilled team is here to help you explore personalised treatment options tailored to your skin.
POST—INFLAMMATORY HYPERPIGMENTATION
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Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is the darkening of skin that occurs following the healing of acne, wounds, or other injuries. This discolouration results from excess melanin production in response to inflammation. While PIH can affect anyone, individuals with darker skin tones are at a higher risk.
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PIH appears as irregular, asymmetric spots that are flat and dark in pigmentation. These patches can be localised or more dispersed across the affected area.
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Several factors can contribute to the development of PIH, including:
Acne
Dermatitis
Infectious diseases
Trauma or injury
Burns
Insect bites
Chronic rubbing of the skin
Additional triggers include:
Inflammation
Sun exposure
Photosensitizing medications
Chemical exposure
Use of certain cosmetic-grade skincare products
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PIH can develop in all skin types. However, it tends to be more severe and longer-lasting for people with medium to dark complexions. People with skin of colour have more pigment (melanin), so there is more of a chance of PIH with certain skin problems.
Both men and women can experience PIH, and it commonly appears after conditions like acne or dermatitis, as well as following injuries such as burns, surgery, or trauma.
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Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) may fade on its own, but it can also be more or less permanent. The fading time depends on the contrast between the dark spot and your natural skin tone—ranging from 3 to 24 months or longer.
One treatment is usually not enough to effectively fade hyperpigmentation; a series of sessions spaced 2—4 weeks apart is often necessary, depending on the chosen procedure. If you're looking to reduce the appearance of PIH, our experienced team can help determine the most effective treatment options tailored to your skin.
SCARRING
Scarring is a common concern that can impact skin health and confidence. At The Dream Skin Clinic, we recognise that each person's experience with scars is unique, which is why we tailor our treatment plans to address your specific needs.
Effective management of scarring starts with identifying the underlying causes and taking proactive steps. Our skilled team employs advanced techniques to minimise the appearance of scars and improve skin texture. This targeted approach not only promotes long-term healing but also enhances your skin's overall health and vitality.
BOXCAR SCARS
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Boxcar scars are characterized by their distinctive shape—usualy box-like, round, or oval depressions with sharply defined edges.
These scars are more prevalent in areas of the face where the skin is thicker, particularly the lower cheeks and jawline.
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Boxcar scars typically occur when blemishes penetrate deeply into the skin, damaging both the surface layer and the underlying tissue. As the blemish heals, the body attempts to repair this damage, which can result in the formation of boxcar scars.
Boxcar scars can result from any type of acne and may also develop after chickenpox. Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of these scars, including:
Severe or inflammatory acne (nodules and cysts)
Prolonged untreated inflammatory acne
Popping or squeezing blemishes before they heal
Family history of acne scars
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Boxcar scars do not heal on their own, and while they may gradually fade, effective treatment is essential for significant improvement.
Especially at The Dream Skin Clinic, our Dream Medical Division collaborates closely with our skin division, using advanced scar revision techniques to comprehensively address boxcar scars.
If you have concerns about your scarring and want to reduce its appearance, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us today.
ROLLING SCARS
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Rolling scars are characterized by their sloping edges, creating a wavy, uneven appearance on the skin.
These scars are more commonly found in areas of the face where the skin is thicker, particularly the lower cheeks and jawline.
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Rolling scars develop when the skin’s underlying tissue is damaged, often due to acne or other inflammatory conditions. The skin loses its structure and support, leading to these irregular depressions. Risk factors for rolling scars include:
Severe or inflammatory acne (nodules and cysts)
Prolonged untreated acne
Skin trauma or injury
Family history of acne scars
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Rolling scars do not improve on their own, and while they may fade over time, effective treatment is crucial for visible improvement.
Especially at The Dream Skin Clinic, our Dream Medical Division collaborates closely with our skin division, utilising advanced scar revision techniques to effectively address rolling scars.
If you have concerns about your scarring and wish to minimise its appearance, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us today.
ICEPICK SCARS
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Icepick scars are characterized by their narrow, deep, V-shaped indentations, typically less than 2mm wide, resembling the marks left by an icepick.
These scars are usually found on the face, particularly on the cheeks and temples, where they can create a pitted appearance.
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Icepick scars occur when acne lesions penetrate deeply into the skin, damaging both the surface and the underlying tissue. As the skin heals, the body’s repair process can result in these narrow, deep scars. Risk factors for developing icepick scars include:
Severe or cystic acne
Picking or squeezing acne lesions
Prolonged inflammatory acne
Family history of acne scarring
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Icepick scars do not heal on their own, and while they may fade somewhat over time, effective treatment is essential for noticeable improvement.
Especially at The Dream Skin Clinic, our Dream Medical Division collaborates closely with our skin division, utilising advanced scar revision techniques to effectively address icepick scars.
If you have concerns about your scarring and want to reduce its appearance, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us today.
ENLARGE PORES
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Enlarged pores are small depressions on the skin that can appear larger due to excess sebum production. They are most common in areas of the face with higher oil production, particularly in the T-zone region (forehead, nose, and chin).
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Enlarged pores can result from a variety of factors, including:
Aging
Acne
Increased sebum production
Thick hair follicles
Inflammation
Impaired skin barrier
Picking pimples
Genetic tendency
Smoking
Lack of in-clinic support for initial blemishes
Sun exposure
Photosensitizing medication
Exposure to chemicals
Exposure to cosmetic-grade skincare
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Enlarged pores may not improve on their own, and while they can appear less noticeable over time, effective treatment is important for visible improvement.
If you have concerns about your pores and want to minimise their appearance, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us today.
POST—INFLAMMATORY ERYTHEMA
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Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) is characterised by localised skin erythema following inflammation, typically presenting as stubborn red, pink, or purple patches on the skin.
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PIE is caused by dilation, inflammation, or damage to the small blood vessels (capillaries) that reside beneath the skin. Contributing factors include:
Acne
Inflammation
Impaired skin barrier
Picking pimples
Smoking
Lack of in-clinic support for initial blemishes
Photosensitizing medication
Exposure to chemicals
Exposure to cosmetic-grade skincare
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Post-inflammatory erythema may not resolve on its own, and while it can fade over time, effective treatment is essential for visible improvement.
If you have concerns about your skin and wish to reduce the appearance of erythema, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us today.
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