Acne isn’t just a teenage condition. Many adults experience persistent breakouts well into their 30s, 40s, and even 50s.
Acne and congestion is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells which causes whiteheads, blackheads, pustules or pimples.
At The Skin Studio in East Perth, we understand that adult acne is biologically and hormonally different from adolescent acne, requiring a more nuanced and targeted approach.
Our clinicians take an expert, evidence-based approach to treating adult acne, addressing both the visible symptoms and the internal factors driving them.
Why Adult Acne Treatments are Different.
The best treatment for acne addresses the complex interplay of skin physiology and systemic influences. Key differences include:
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Hormonal fluctuations: Estrogen and androgen changes, can increase sebum activity.
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Inflammation: Adults often exhibit a heightened inflammatory response, leading to more pore blockages.
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Barrier impairment: Chronic use of active ingredients or retinoids can compromise the lipid barrier, delaying healing.
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Slower cell turnover: Ageing skin regenerates less efficiently, leading to prolonged congestion and scarring.
Understanding these mechanisms allows us to tailor treatment programs that are results-driven yet respectful of mature skin integrity.
Acne Facials are specifically designed to improve barrier function and reduce inflammation.
Congested skin facials, clear pores, include blackhead removal and extractions if required for a clear complexion.
Hydra-dermabrasion is a popular treatment for acne prone skin.
The treatment clears pores by using a solution to remove congestion, extractions plus an oxygen mask to kill bacteria.
There are a number of chemical peel options for the treatment of breakouts.
Your clinician can guide you through the best chemical peel for acne, depending on the type of acne presenting
Laser for acne selectively targets and destroys the bacteria linked to acne.
Bacterial acne appears in the form of pimples or pustules and pops up in oilier regions of the face like the forehead and cheeks.
Acne is not just a surface issue and by improving the lymphatic system we can support spot prone skin.
This relaxing treatment is essential in any acne treatment plan.
Our LED system works in two ways for the treatment of acne.
Near Infrared Light treats the root cause (inflammation) and Blue Light destroys bacteria.
A Holistic View for Acne Treatments
At The Skin Studio, we believe that addressing acne effectively requires more than surface-level solutions. Modern dermatological research shows that gut health, allergies, and systemic inflammation play a crucial role in chronic breakouts.
Our holistic assessment may consider:
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Gut microbiome balance: Dysbiosis (imbalance of gut bacteria) can trigger inflammation that manifests through the skin.
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Dietary triggers: High-glycaemic foods, dairy, and certain additives can exacerbate oil production and inflammation.
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Allergies and sensitivities: Underlying immune reactivity can lead to persistent congestion and redness.
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Stress and sleep patterns: Both can affect cortisol levels and skin barrier repair.
- Medications: Including corticosteroids and anabolic steroids.
By addressing these underlying contributors alongside topical therapies, we promote not just clearer skin, but long-term balance and resilience.
Common Mistakes When Treating Acne and Blackheads
One of the most common mistakes adults make when managing acne is the over-use of harsh exfoliants, retinoids, acids, and scrubs.
While these may provide short-term smoothness, they can disrupt the acid mantle and compromise your skin’s natural defense system.
Over-exfoliating can:
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Increase redness and sensitivity
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Trigger reactive oil production
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Exacerbate inflammation and breakout cycles
In addition, some skincare, makeup, suncare and haircare products can increase congestion.
Our clinicians focus on restoring the skin barrier, incorporating gentle resurfacing where appropriate, combined with microbiome-friendly and anti-inflammatory formulations that calm rather than strip the skin.
What to Expect at The Skin Studio
At your initial appointment, your clinician will;
- Undertake an comprehensive assessment
- Acne and congested skin requires patience and our experienced team of Clinicians will partner with you on your journey to clearer skin.
- Target the underlying issues, we can help to control oil production, clear congestion and soothe angry skin.
- We will provide treatment options, taking into consideration your lifestyle, budget and appropriate downtime.
- Together, we will design a treatment plan that is unique to you and achieves your best results.