4 best facial acne treatments: Lasers, Microneedling and More (2024)

We’ve all experienced some form of acne in our lives, and they usually come and go with the help of the right skincare. What do you do when skincare isn’t enough? 

Acne outbreaks can be caused by a variety of factors, and come in different forms — some needing different treatments, or a combination of treatments, to get cleared up. In this article, we’ll be giving you a lowdown on the different types of acne, and four of the best facial acne treatments to combat outbreaks for pimple-free, clear skin. 

Types of Acne

In order to find out how these treatments work to combat acne, it is first important to understand what acne is and the different types of acne. 

Acne is generally caused by the excessive production of sebum on the skin, clogging the hair follicles along with dirt, bacteria (propionibacterium acnes) and dead skin cells. This build-up can cause further bacteria growth, and lead to outbreaks in various areas of the skin. Excessive sebum can be caused by anything from a hormonal imbalance to the use of comedogenic cosmetic products.

Common types of facial acne include:

• Comedonal acne — Whiteheads and blackheads are the most common form of comedonal acne. Whiteheads are clogged hair follicles that stay just beneath the surface of the skin, whereas blackheads are wider clogged follicles in the skin that are opened up.
• Papules — Papules are small, pink lesions without a notable centre.
• Pustules — Pustules are small nodes with a pus-filled white or yellow centre. They are often painful to touch. 
• Nodules — Nodules are a persistent type of acne found deeper within the skin and are often large and solid. 
• Cysts — Also known as cystic acne or severe nodular acne, this is a severe form of acne that is often deep, painful, pus-filled, and can lead to scarring. Medical intervention is usually recommended.
• Rosacea — Rosacea is a subtype of acne and inflammatory skin condition that manifests as a mixture of papules and pustules, usually around the nose and cheeks. This is also accompanied by redness in the cheeks.

Acne comes in different forms, and the first step to getting rid of your acne is to find out what type of acne you have. This helps your therapist determine the most ideal anti-acne treatment approach, best suited to your skin type and condition, to manage your acne effectively.

Laser Treatments

Laser treatments utilise high-intensity, single-length light to target overactive sebaceous glands, preventing acne from forming entirely.

During a laser procedure, high-focused energy penetrates layers of the skin, killing off bacteria responsible for acne without damaging surrounding tissue. Laser treatments can also reduce sebum production by slowing sebaceous gland function, hence, effectively managing acne. Laser treatments are generally recommended for moderate to severe acne that does not respond well to other treatments, such as topical ointments or medication.

The benefits of laser treatments for acne include: 

• Precision targeting — Laser treatments are very precise in terms of targeting the acne-affected parts of the skin at the correct areas and depths. This allows for a more focused treatment and prevents damage to other surrounding tissues.
• Reduced inflammation — Laser treatments can reduce inflammation and redness on the skin.
• Reduced bacteria — Laser treatments can help kill off bacteria responsible for acne, effectively mitigating the formation of new lesions.
• Minimal scarring — Laser therapy confers lesser scarring because of its more targeted and minimally-invasive nature.
• Minimal downtime — Laser therapy is a minimally-invasive procedure with minimal to no downtime, depending on intensity. This means that you can get right back to your daily routine right after your procedure.
• Combination therapies — Laser therapy can also be combined with other anti-acne treatments for a more holistic treatment plan.

SkinLab’s Laser Lift Facial uses 660nm Low Level Laser Therapy to target acne and pigmentation, along with galvanic current and lymphatic drainage procedures to purify the skin and increase hydration. For those who want faster results, Fotona Acne Laser, which is available at our sister clinic SL Aesthetic Clinic might be a better fit.   

It is important to note that laser treatments can also be used post-acne treatment for reducing acne scars and lesions. This can be done via laser resurfacing (ablative or non-ablative) or fractionated laser treatment (Fraxel).

Light Therapy

Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, uses broad-spectrum light devices, such as intense pulsed light (IP) and LED therapy, to treat acne and other skin concerns. 

Unlike laser treatments, light therapy uses lower-intensity, broad-spectrum light. This is emitted in a range of wavelengths, targeting the surface of the skin and eliminating the bacteria responsible for acne, while also stimulating collagen production. It is generally recommended for mild to moderate acne, such as comedonal acne or non-inflammatory acne.

The benefits of light therapy for acne include:

• Minimally invasive treatment — Light therapy is a minimally-invasive treatment, making it a painless option with minimal to no downtime. It is also generally well-tolerated and safe for all skin types.
• Reduced inflammation — Light therapy can reduce inflammation and redness on the skin.
• Reduced bacteria — Certain bacteria on the skin are sensitive to certain types or wavelengths of light. This can be used to target acne-causing bacteria and help mitigate acne symptoms.
• Minimised pores — Light therapy can shrink the pores, as well as the oil glands in the skin.
• Increased collagen production — Some light therapies, such as LED light therapy, can stimulate collagen production in the skin. This helps reduce scars and fine lines.
• Pain-free — If you are pain-averse, light therapy would be a viable treatment option as it is a generally painless and comfortable procedure.
• Improved skin texture — When done consistently, light therapy can smoothen skin, reduce acne scars, and improve skin texture.

Light therapy works best when combined with other procedures for more effective and noticeable results. For example, SkinLab’s Signature Medical Peel + Omega Light Treatment is specially designed to target both the surface and deeper layers of the skin. This involves a doctor-developed medical peel, formulated for combination and acne/blemish-prone skin, used synergistically with Omega Light Therapy (Red, 640nm) to promote skin regeneration, remove dead skin cells, and kill acne-causing bacteria. 

Chemical Peel

Chemical peels involve the use of chemical solutions, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) and trichloroacetic acids (THAs), to resurface the outer layer of the skin, removing dead skin and unclogging pores that could be causing your breakouts. 

Some chemical peels with salicylic acid can also help reduce sebum production, which, in turn, reduces acne. Absorption and efficacy of topical acne treatments are also enhanced right after a chemical peel.

Chemical peels can be classified based on the concentrations of the solutions and the length of time they are left on the skin: 

• Superficial peels (epidermis) — Superficial chemical peels are great for resurfacing and removing dead skin cells and unblocking pores, preventing future outbreaks and clearing up acne found on the surface of the skin. They are typically gentler, and are tolerable by most skin types. 
• Medium peels (epidermis and dermis) — In comparison, medium peels work on a deeper level than superficial peels, and are useful for stimulating collagen and elastin production. Commonly used solutions for medium chemical peels are trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and glycolic acid. 
• Deep peels (lower dermal layer) — Deep chemical peels target much deeper layers of the skin, and may require a local anaesthetic or sedative to keep you as comfortable as possible during the procedure. It is most recommended for severe cases of acne or acne scarring. Deep peels may further aggravate your sensitive, acne-prone skin, and will require a professional to determine your suitability for the procedure.

SkinLab’s Peptide Peel Facial’s peeling system is specially formulated with 6 different acids, meant to restore the skin’s natural pH balance, reduce acne-causing skin congestion and improve the skin’s overall hydration and quality. After your peel, a hyaluronic carboxy is applied to neutralise the peeling and promote local cell metabolism.

Microneedling

Microneedling, or collagen induction therapy, refers to the use of strategically placed “pricks” to create micro-channels in the skin using a derma roller. These micro-channels enhance the absorption and efficacy of topical treatments, and promote cell turnover by encouraging collagen and elastin production. 

The main benefits of a microneedling treatment include:

• Stimulates collagen and elastin production
• Minimises pores 
• Smoothes skin texture
• Reduces wrinkles and fine lines
• Encourages absorption of topical products
• Lightens post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
• Strengthens skin structure

SkinLab’s Derma Roller Facial is a 90-minute microneedling treatment performed by a trained professional, combined with nutrient-dense topicals to further encourage skin healing and regeneration. A topical numbing cream is applied to ensure that you are kept as comfortable as possible throughout the procedure. 

Microneedling is generally not recommended for treating active acne lesions, as it may cause bacteria to spread and worsen. However, it may be used with topical anti-acne serums to reduce acne. It is also an exceptionally effective treatment for reducing acne scars and preventing the formation of new scars by filling in depressed scars and improving skin texture.

Sylfirm X is an example of gold standard microneedling treatment. 

Who should go for an acne facial treatment?

If you experience persistent and worsening acne, it is important to get your skin checked and acne flare-ups mitigated. Often, waiting for acne to simply go away is not the solution, as this could aggravate your condition and cause acne scars in the long-term.

You are recommended to go for a professional acne facial treatment if:

• Your skin condition doesn’t improve with over-the-counter acne products
• You develop large nodules or cysts
• You develop acne scars
• You experience occasional acne flare-ups
• You have persistent or severe acne
• You have other skin concerns in addition to your acne 

That being said, simply seeking preventative care for your acne-prone skin can also be a reason for professional acne facial treatment. There are treatments available to balance your skin’s microbiome and keep it acne-free.

Choosing the right treatment for your skin

Everyone’s skin is different and certain skin conditions need different forms of treatment, including acne-prone skin.

Acne is a complex skin condition, and often, many factors and contributing factors come into play. As there are different types of acne, and differences in skin type and patient tolerance, a combination of treatments is generally needed to effectively manage acne and prevent the condition from relapsing. 

Thankfully, acne is treatable, and choosing the right combination of acne facial treatment in Singapore for your acne-prone skin starts with a proper skin analysis done by a professional.

Treat your acne with SkinLab

SkinLab is a medispa dedicated to providing advanced aesthetic techniques and dermatology for all skin needs thorough holistic, minimally-invasive procedures. If you experience persistent acne, or are simply looking for a skin refresh, consult our professionals for a diagnosis and personalised treatment plan today!