Acne
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Acne key facts
Acne is a skin condition that affects both men and women regardless of their age. Women however, tend to suffer from adult acne more than men. Here, we will take a look at the causes, types, and treatments available. Having a better understanding will help you not only treat episodes of acne, but also provide you with valuable information to prevent breakouts.
Introduction to acne
Acne vulgaris (acne) occurs when the follicles at the base of your hairs become blocked with dead skin cells or oil, resulting in blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, cysts and nodules forming on the surface of the skin. Acne tends to occur more on the face, chest, shoulders and upper back, essentially where there are a greater number of oil glands on your body.
Acne is more common during puberty, however it can continue into adulthood or even develop when you become an adult. The excess production of oil, changes in your hormones, bacteria, and inflammation of the skin are all factors that may lead to the development of acne.
Causes of acne
- Hormonal changes, especially during adolescence and puberty. Increased levels of androgens cause an increased production of oil from the sebaceous glands, causing pores on the skin to become blocked
- Family history, you are more likely to develop acne if your parents suffered with acne
- Medications, such as steroids, lithium, or testosterone, may trigger outbreaks of acne
- Diet, studies have shown that dairy products and foods high in sugar may make the symptoms of acne worse in some people
- Poor skincare
- Friction or pressure on the skin
- Stress
- Pollution
- Humidity
Identifying different forms of acne
Understanding and identifying the different types of acne will help decide the most appropriate treatment options:
- Comedones: These are caused by clogged hair follicles. Better know as blackheads, which occur when the pore is open to the air, and whiteheads, where the pore is closed and not open to the air
- Papules: Small, raised, tender, red bumps caused by inflammation or infection of the hair follicles
- Pustules: Inflamed pimples, containing pus. These typically look like red spots with a yellowish centre
- Nodules: These are more severe than pustules and papules and may lead to scarring if not treated
- Cysts: Pus-filled lesions, larger and more painful than nodules. These may cause serious scarring if not treated promptly
Treatments for mild acne
- Over-the-counter products containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids (vitamin A derivatives). These can help to unblock pores, reduce the production of oil, and promote the turnover of skin cells
- Good skincare hygiene: Washing your face daily with a mild cleanser and not picking your spots or scrubbing your skin, as this may lead to scarring and inflammation
You are recommended to use non-comedogenic makeup or oil-free moisturizers, to prevent the blockage of skin pores. Speak to a dermatologist for further advice if OTC products do not help to manage your mild acne.
Managing moderate acne
- Topical antibiotics such as clindamycin, erythromycin, or tetracycline to prevent the growth of bacteria
- Oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline or minocycline
- Hormonal therapies, such as combined oral contraceptives or spironolactone, may be used for women who have hormonal acne
- Chemical peels or light therapy to help unblock skin pores, exfoliate the skin, and reduce to help reduce inflammation
Treating severe acne
- Oral isotretinoin: This is a potent retinoid treatment that reduces the production of sebum, bacterial growth and inflammation. It does however cause side effects and will need to be monitored by a dermatologist
- Corticosteroid injections: These reduce pain and inflammation associated with the build-up of oil and dead skin cells within the hair follicles (cystic acne)
- Oral antibiotics used in combination with topical treatments to help manage severe acne and prevent further damage and scarring of the skin
Skin care for acne-prone skin
Having a skincare routine is a good idea to help manage your skin if you are prone to acne. Here are some tips to add to your daily skincare routine:
- Use a gentle skin cleanser on your face twice a day. Do not scrub or scrape your skin, as this may irritate your skin further
- Exfoliate your skin, using exfoliants such as salicylic acid or alpha hydroxy acids
- Use oil-free moisturizers to hydrate your skin without clogging up the pores. This is important for all types of skin, including acne-prone and oily skin
- Use a sunscreen, SPF 30 to protect your skin from UV rays
- Avoid touching or picking at your acne, as this may cause scarring and introduce further bacteria and infections
- Use oil-free skincare and makeup to prevent pores from clogging up. Check labels to ensure the products are suitable for your skin
The role of diet in acne
The impact of diet on acne is not clear, but certain factors in your diet may influence the severity of your acne symptoms. Studies suggest that foods high in sugar content, such as sugary snacks and refined carbohydrates, may make acne flare-ups worse. Also, dairy products and foods high in iodine content have also been linked to acne in some individuals.
Maintaining a nutritious balanced diet can help contribute to the overall health of your skin. Make sure you include foods high in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Also, drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated will help you maintain healthy skin. Keep a food diary, to track which foods are causing acne breakouts. Discuss your findings with a healthcare professional for further guidance.
Common acne myths
There are many myths concerning acne. Here, we will take a closer look to see which, if any of these myths are true:
- Poor personal hygiene causes acne: Poor hygiene alone will not cause acne. Factors such as changes in hormone levels, excessive oil production, bacteria, and inflammation are more likely to affect acne breakouts
- Acne only occurs during adolescence and puberty: Acne is more common during puberty, but it can continue into adult life and even begin later in life. Stress and changes in hormone levels may affect the likelihood of acne at any age
- Chocolate and greasy food cause acne: There is not enough evidence to suggest certain foods cause acne. However, making sure you have a healthy balanced diet is important to maintain healthy skin
- Pimples will heal faster if you pick them: Picking pimples may lead to further problems, such as further bacterial infections, inflammation and scarring. Do not touch or squeeze acne spots. Instead, speak to a healthcare professional for the most appropriate advice
By understanding the causes and treatment options available for acne, you can make better-informed choices about how to manage your condition.
What to do about acne scarring
Inflammation due to acne can cause damage to the skin, causing scarring. Acne scars can appear as bumps or pits on the skin, affecting self-esteem.
Treatment options for acne scarring include:
- Creams, gels or lotions containing retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene), azelaic acid or steroids can improve scarring over time
- Chemical peels applied to the affected areas help to remove the top layer of skin, helping to promote new smoother skin
- Exfoliation of the skin to improve the appearance of the skin and reduce mild acne scars
- Laser resurfacing to remove the damaged skin and stimulate the production of collagen
- Injectable dermal fillers to fill in pits, giving a smoother surface
- Microneedling to create micro-injuries in the skin that stimulate the production of collagen
Speak to your dermatologist for medical advice to determine the best treatment option for you and your symptoms.
Dermatologists and acne treatment
Dermatologists specialise in skin conditions. They can provide expert advice and treatment plans for the management of your acne. Based on your needs, a dermatologist may recommend medications, such as creams, antibiotics, hormonal treatments, or isotretinoin.
Dermatologists can also provide advice on lifestyle modifications, skincare routines, and the proper techniques to help manage your acne. They can also perform procedures to treat severe acne, scarring, or any other skin concerns you may have.
The long-term management of acne
There are steps you can take to help prevent and manage breakouts in the long term. These include:
- Cleansing your skin twice a day, moisturise, and using non-comedogenic products. Do not use harsh scrubs, be gentle to your skin
- Avoid touching your face, as this can spread bacteria and oils, causing skin pores to become clogged. Do not pick or squeeze acne lesions, as this may increase inflammation and make scarring worse
- Exercise regularly, manage your stress levels, and make sure you have a healthy balanced diet, high in fruit, vegetables, and whole grains
- Use sunscreens, SPF 30 or higher, and protect yourself from the sun, especially during peak sun hours
- Avoid tight clothing, which may exacerbate acne breakouts. Choose looser, more breathable fabrics and ensure good hygiene
- Stick to simple, gentle skincare routines. Harsh treatments may irritate your skin making acne worse
- Change pillowcases and towels on a regular basis as these may harbour bacteria that contribute to breakouts
Conclusion
Acne is a common skin condition affecting men and women of all ages. To manage your symptoms you will need to understand the causes, types, and treatment options available. Treatment options available, include OTC products, prescription medications, and in-office procedures.
Practicing good skincare, seeking professional help when needed, and adopting preventive measures, can help you achieve clearer, healthier skin, boosting your self-confidence. Everyone’s skin is different, so remember, what works for one person may not work for you. Consult with a healthcare professional to develop a personalized plan that suits your needs specifically.
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Service Guide
Everything you need to know about Getting Treated Privately
What does the Get Treated Privately service do?
The Get Treated Privately service is a private prescribing service which is designed for adults aged 18 years and over, who are experiencing health issues and who would like to receive a fast-track assessment and if applicable, a treatment plan from a qualified prescribing clinician. Treatments are dispensed and delivered to your home or workplace from our regulated online pharmacy.
Is this a safe service?
Yes. Our formulary of medications prescribed and conditions treated are controlled, governed, and continuously risk-assessed by our Medical Director, Dr. Aseel Hamoud. Unlike other prescribing services which operate using faceless questionnaires, our service is conducted through remote video consultations, also known as synchronous consultations. This builds patient safety and prescribing appropriateness into our service, ensuring our prescribing clinicians can be satisfied with who and what they are treating. There is no guarantee of supply of medications, and any prescriptions supplied are at the sole discretion of our clinician prescriber. There is no charge for the consultation.
What is a prescribing clinician and is it safe for me to use them on the NowPatient platform?
Our prescribing clinicians are board-certified pharmacists, nurses, or doctors who can also prescribe any medicine for any medical condition, subject to accepted accreditation and good clinical practice. They are all registered with their respective regulatory bodies. For example, a pharmacist independent prescriber is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). Each prescribing clinician undergoes an extensive background check including a disclosure and barring service check (DBS). In addition, they undergo a rigorous license verification process. When you book an appointment with our prescribing clinicians you will see their full name, license number, and any specialized credentials they have.
Is the service available worldwide?
Yes, the Get Treated Privately service is available worldwide.
Do I need to pay for this service?
Yes. This is a private service. You do not need to pay for the consultation. You only pay for the cost of the medication you are prescribed.
How do I book a consultation?
Once you have logged into your account, you will need to navigate to the Get Treated Privately service card which is located as a service item on the dashboard.
Using the action button on the service card, you can select one of the following – ‘Search Treatments’ or ‘Search Conditions’.
Depending on the search type and the product/condition that you would like to get treated, you will be taken to a consultation booking screen. Follow the simple steps to complete your booking. During the booking confirmation, you will be able to select a date and time that is convenient for you, along with the preferred language and gender of the prescribing clinician you wish to choose. You will then see a list of all available expert clinicians who are trained to assess the medication or condition chosen. Once you have confirmed your booking, you will see a summary of the appointment including preliminary information about the consultation. At this point, you will also be able to add a reminder to your calendar. Always ensure your account health profile is up to date before any consultation. This ensures that our clinicians have the most up-to-date information about your current health status and anything that may influence their prescribing decisions. You will receive a push notification, SMS notification and email reminding you of your consultation, 30 minutes before the virtual consultation is due to start.
Depending on certain medications which require our clinicians to have your up-to-date blood pressure readings, you may be required to submit a virtual blood pressure check, using your smartphone or device. We will provide you with full instructions, when this is required.
What happens during the remote video consultation?
During the consultation, the clinician will ask you a series of questions that will allow the clinician to assess your condition and potential treatment options. At the end of the consultation, the clinician will decide if a treatment is a safe and suitable option for you. If it is, the clinician will discuss the various treatment options that may be available, so that you can jointly agree on the option that is most suited to you. Once you have jointly agreed on a treatment plan, the clinician will issue a prescription order which will be available in your Cart at the end of the consultation.
Also, with your consent, the clinician may wish to inform your doctor of the treatment that was prescribed. We recommend that you agree to this since your doctor is responsible for your overall care and they should have a record of this consultation and medication prescribed. In addition, our clinician may take the opportunity to advise you on your overall health including advice on healthy living or stop smoking.
What happens at the end of the consultation?
At the end of the consultation, you will receive a notification which will summarise the outcome. It will also advise you if any referrals were made to your doctor, along with any other advice that was given to you by the clinician.
If a referral letter was issued to your doctor, you will be able to view a copy of this in the ‘Documents’ section of the dashboard. If you were prescribed a treatment, it will now be available in your Cart.
When you go to your Cart, you will be able to select the treatment, checkout and make payment. Once the checkout is complete, your prescription order will be sent to our regulated online pharmacy for processing.
What if the prescriber does not prescribe what I want?
We operate a safe prescribing service. This means that our prescribing clinicians always exercise their clinical judgment when prescribing. Unfortunately, we do not operate a self select service where you can choose a medication and simply buy. If the clinician that sees you does not prescribe anything, then you will not be charged.
Will I get status updates for my order?
Yes. When your treatment is approved, and after you have checked out and paid for your order, we will keep you fully updated with the status of your order. Every time the status of your order changes, you will be notified immediately. These notifications will appear in the ‘Notification Feed’ section on the dashboard.
How will my order be delivered?
All orders are shipped in discreet and unmarked packaging. This means it is suitable for delivery wherever you require (home, work, or a neighbour).
For thermo-sensitive orders (e.g. Insulin or weight loss injections) we use cold chain-validated packaging. Your parcel will normally receive an estimated delivery window from the courier on the day of delivery.
For your protection and safety, your first order can only be delivered to the address that is registered with NowPatient. Future orders can be delivered to any other address, for example, your workplace.
Do you ship cold-chain or temperature sensitive products?
Yes. We use a specialist courier service for all thermo-sensitive deliveries. This is to ensure that cold chain integrity is always maintained and thus the product quality, safety and efficacy.
Learn more about how we handle the delivery of temperature sensitive products.
Where do you deliver?
We currently deliver to all postcodes/zipcodes worldwide. Some postcodes in rural areas may have a slightly longer delivery time.
When will my order arrive?
We aim to ship all orders placed Monday – Friday before 3pm on the same day. Orders placed outside these times will be shipped the next working day. All deliveries are shipped by Royal Mail, which delivers Monday through Saturday in the UK. For deliveries outside of the UK, please check with your national postal service for accurate delivery days.
Our delivery options have the following delivery times:
- UK – Royal Mail Tracked 24 & Signed for Delivery – Next day delivery
- Europe – Royal Mail Tracked – Typical delivery of 3-5 working days
- Worldwide – Royal Mail – Typical delivery of 5-7 working days. If a tracked option is available for your country via Royal Mail, this service will be applied.
What should I do if my order has not arrived?
Delivery is normally made promptly after your dispatch notification is received. You can check the tracking details of your order in the ‘Notification Feed’ section of the dashboard, at any point after dispatch.
Unfortunately, packages can sometimes get lost in the delivery system. If after 10 days you have not received your delivery, please contact us and we will do all we can to resolve the problem.
Can you prescribe GLP-1 weight loss injections?
Yes. However, with GLP-1 weight loss medications, the license requires that there are support resources put in place as part of the plan including coaching for a healthy lifestyle, exercise, and diet. Our clinicians will discuss this with you, if you are prescribed this type of treatment.
You can learn more on our Weight Loss Programs feature page.
What’s included with my order?
If you are ordering prescription medication, your order will contain your medication only.
If you are ordering weight loss injections, your order will contain:
- Your prescription of pre-filled weight loss injection pens
- Needles
- Sharps bin for safe disposal of needles (if ordered as part of the bundle)
Can I reorder my medication, if I have already been prescribed a course?
Yes. However, as a responsible prescribing service, we do not issue more than one monthly cycle of medication at a time. This means that, if you would like to reorder, you will need to rebook a consultation.
This is important, because it allows our clinicians to keep track on the progress of your treatment plan and ensure that the medication remains safe and effective for you.
What is the earliest I can reorder my medication or treatment?
14 days after you have received your first monthly supply, we will send you a notification to advise you that you are eligible to reorder your medication. To ensure that we are able to safely prescribe the next supply, you will need to rebook a consultation.
This ensures that our clinician can check in on your treatment plan and ensure it is working as intended and continues to be safe, suitable and appropriate for you.
How do I reorder my medication?
When you are eligible to reorder your next medication, we will send you a notification reminder. This notification reminder will request that you book a consultation with a NowPatient Clinician.
You should book a suitable time and date for the consultation.
At the end of the consultation, the clinician may advise you to either
- Stop the treatment
- Stay on the current dose
- Increase the dose
If our clinician deems it safe for you to continue taking the medication, the medication will be added to your cart, from where you can checkout.
Delivery will be made in line with our delivery timescales.
As a responsible prescribing service, we will always monitor your treatment plan to ensure that it remains safe, effective and suitable for you.
How do I reorder weight loss medication?
Our weight loss programs are built to closely monitor treatment progress and safety. Please refer to the Weight Loss Programs Service Guide that explains how you can reorder or step edit your dose.
About Telehealth
Everything you need to know about video consultations
Are remote video consultations right for me?
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