Female Acne - Epi Dermatology & Laser Specialist Clinic

What Is Acne?

Acne is a common skin condition among women that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with excess oil (sebum) and dead skin cells, leading to inflammation and bacterial growth. In women, acne can be attributed to hormonal fluctuations during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, or conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Symptoms Of Acne In Women

Symptoms of acne in women can come in the form of:

Whiteheads: Tiny, closed bumps that form when excess oil and dead skin cells clog hair follicles, creating a whitish appearance.
Blackheads: Small dark spots resulting from clogged hair follicles containing oil and dead skin cells.
Papules: Small, red, tender bumps, which arise when hair follicles become irritated and infected.
Pustules: Inflamed papules with pus-filled tips, caused by bacterial infection within the hair follicle.
Nodules: Large, solid, painful lumps beneath the skin’s surface, occur when hair follicles experience deeper inflammation.
Cystic lesions: Painful, pus-filled lumps beneath the skin’s surface, indicating severe inflammation and infection.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing acne requires a thorough examination of the skin, taking the distribution and extent of inflammation into consideration to determine the type and severity of lesions. Using this information, the dermatologist will advise you one the most suitable course of treatment. Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent the development of severe acne and minimise the potential for scarring.

Types Of Female Acne

Characterised by the presence of whiteheads and blackheads, comedonal acne results from hair follicles clogged by an accumulation of oil and dead skin cells, and more common for women during periods of hormone fluctuation.

Marked by red, tender papules and pus-filled pustules, inflammatory acne occurs when clogged pores become inflamed due to bacteria, oil, and dead skin cells, generally appearing during menstruation and hormonal changes.

Deep, painful, pus-filled lesions arising from extensive infection, inflammation, and damage to hair follicles and surrounding skin layers.

Often appearing around the jawline, chin, and cheeks, hormonal acne is typically more prevalent in women during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause.

Large, solid, painful lumps beneath the skin’s surface resulting from deep-seated inflammation within the hair follicle. Women suffering from menstrual irregularities or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may be more susceptible to nodular acne.

Billing & Insurance

Private and Corporate Insurance

You can use your Integrated Shield Plans to pay for certain procedures. Speak to us to learn more, and you’ll be surprised at how affordable private healthcare can be.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for acne include:

Hormonal fluctuations: Changes in hormone levels during puberty, menstruation, or pregnancy can increase oil production, and can contribute to the development of acne. Conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can also contribute to acne.
Genetics and family history: Genetic predisposition may increase the likelihood of acne development.
Excessive oil production: Overactive sebaceous glands can produce excessive oil, can clog hair follicles and lead to acne formation.
Clogged hair follicles: Dead skin cells, oil, and debris can accumulate in hair follicles, clogging pores and acne development.
Bacterial infections: Proliferation of bacteria, such as Propionibacterium acnes, can trigger inflammation and worsen existing acne lesions.

Why Choose Us

Modern & Patient-Centred Dermatological Care

We are dedicated to your skin health and well-being. Our results-oriented approach is suitable for a wide range of hair, skin and nail conditions. Consult our MOH-accredited dermatologist for a personalised treatment plan.

Personalised Treatment Plans

Results-Oriented Approach

Focused Aftercare For All

Honest & Ethical Practices

Dr. Lee Hwee Chyen

Medical Director & Consultant Dermatologist

MBBS (S'pore) MRCP (UK) FAMS (Dermatology)

Special Interests In:

Paediatric Dermatology
Women’s Dermatology
Procedural Dermatology & Lasers

Dr. Lee Hwee Chyen is an accredited Adult & Paediatric dermatologist managing a wide range of skin, hair and nail conditions. The clinic provides services for medical, surgical, cosmetic, women’s and paediatric dermatology.