Active Acne

FAQ

• What causes active acne, and why does mine keep coming back?

  Active acne is driven by a combination of excess oil, uneven shedding inside the pore, bacterial balance shifts, and inflammation. Hormones, stress, sleep, some medications and genetics all play a part, so acne tends to wax and wane rather than resolve in a straight line.

• Is my acne severe enough to need a dermatologist?

  Moderate-to-severe, cystic, or actively scarring acne is best assessed by your GP or a dermatologist. Flourish does not prescribe prescription medications. At consultation, we will tell you honestly if medical review should come first.

• Can I still have a facial or a peel if I have active breakouts?

  Often yes, with the right choice. Hydradermabrasion and salicylic or mandelic peels are specifically designed for oily, congested, acne-prone skin. Skin needling and stronger resurfacing are usually paused until the skin is calmer.

• Which treatment helps with the marks left after a spot clears?

  Flat pink or red marks (post-inflammatory erythema) often respond to calming modalities and time. Flat tan or brown marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) respond well to pigment-supportive peels, SPF 50+, and topical niacinamide or vitamin C. Neither is a true scar.

• Will these treatments work on my skin tone?

  Hydrafacial, LDM Noblesse and mandelic peels are often considered across a wide range of skin tones. Fitzpatrick IV to VI skin carries an elevated risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation with any inflammatory treatment, so acids are selected carefully and photoprotection is emphasised. Suitability is assessed at consultation.

• Is there downtime?

  Hydrafacial and LDM Noblesse are non-invasive; most clients return to normal activities immediately. Superficial peels can produce mild stinging during application, followed by 1 to 5 days of light flaking. Skin needling involves topical numbing and 1 to 3 days of redness.

• How soon will I see a difference?

  Many clients notice surface clarity after the first one or two Hydrafacial or LDM sessions. Shifts in inflammatory breakouts usually take a full course (six to twelve weeks). Post-inflammatory marks fade more slowly, often over three to six months. Individual results vary.

• When is at-home care no longer enough?

  If you have been consistent with a sensible routine (salicylic acid, niacinamide, barrier-supportive moisturiser, daily SPF 50+) for three to six months and your breakouts are still frequent, tender, deep or leaving marks, in-clinic treatments are worth considering.