Acne in Dark Skin Types

Acne can be a challenging skin condition, particularly for individuals with darker skin tones, who may also face unique concerns such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and scarring. At Skin Renewal, our doctor-led approach provides a comprehensive guide on the effective treatments available for acne in dark skin types, along with sought-after advice on avoiding complications such as keloid scarring and further skin discolouration. From topical solutions to advanced aesthetic procedures, we'll explore how to manage acne while maintaining the health and beauty of darker skin.

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Understanding Acne in Darker Skin Types

Darker skin is more susceptible to certain types of acne-related complications, such as PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation) and keloid scarring. It's essential to opt for acne treatments and products that effectively address acne without causing additional irritation or discolouration. Here are some highly recommended treatment options:

Topical Retinoids: Products containing adapalene are excellent for unclogging pores and reducing inflammation, making them a staple in acne treatment for dark skin.

Chemical Peels: Beta Hydroxy Acid peels are another option that can be safely used on darker skin tones under the guidance of an experienced skin renewal therapist.

Specialised Treatments for Hyperpigmentation and Scarring

When addressing the aftermath of acne, such as dark spots and scarring, we may suggest the following treatments tailored for darker skin:

Microneedling: Skin Needling procedures, combined with topical serums, help improve skin texture and tone.
Laser Treatments: Techniques such as the Cutera Laser Genesis™ and PICO Laserare specifically modified to treat PIH and scarring on darker skin.
Fillers and Subcision: These methods correct atrophic scars, providing relief from pitted scars by releasing the scar from underlying tissues.

The Importance of Specialised Care

For individuals with dark skin, it is crucial to consult with a qualified team who has experience in treating skin of colour. Specialised care is necessary to prevent adverse effects like burns, permanent scarring, and increased pigmentation. At Skin Renewal, all treatments are administered by qualified medical doctors and experienced skincare therapists who take a holistic approach, ensuring no underlying conditions are contributing to the acne.

Tailored Acne Treatment at Skin Renewal

At Skin Renewal, we pride ourselves on providing customised acne treatments for patients with dark skin. These include:

By combining these treatments with appropriate home care products, we aim to provide lasting results and prevent relapses, ensuring each patient achieves optimal skin health tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.

Managing acne in dark skin requires specialised knowledge and careful treatment selection to avoid exacerbating skin issues. At Skin Renewal, our doctor-led approach is designed to offer effective, personalised solutions that cater to the unique needs of darker skin types, ensuring safety and efficacy in all treatments provided.

frequently asked
questions

Are treatments for acne in dark skin types available at all Skin Renewal clinics?

Acne treatments for dark skin are available in Gauteng at the Morningside, Parkhurst, Rosebank, Bedfordview, Fourways, West Rand, Irene, Lynnwood and Brooklyn clinics, as well as in the Western Cape at Cape Quarter, Claremont, Constantia, Century City, Stellenbosch, Paarl and Willowbridge clinics, and Kwa-Zulu Natal at the Ballito, Durban and Umhlanga clinics.

What are the causes of acne in dark skin types?

The two main causes of acne are blockage of the pores and bacterial growth. Oil and cells get trapped below the surface of the skin, creating a growth medium for the bacteria. White cells migrate to the site to fight the bacteria, which, in turn, releases chemicals that lead to swelling, redness, and further attraction of white cells (inflammation).

The result is a dilated pore filled with white cells, inflammatory and anti-inflammatory chemicals and bacteria. This is the content of the acne pimple.

How can acne be classified in dark skin types?

Acne can be classified as mild, moderate or severe inflammatory acne based on lesion count and whether nodules are present. (Nodules are the very deep, hard, inflamed, painful lesions associated with moderate and severe acne)

Mild to moderate acne consists mostly of comedones, papules, and pustules, but no or very few nodules are present in the skin.
Severe acne has many papules, pustules and nodules present in the skin

This severe acne may be more common in males, and this kind of acne should be referred to a Skin Renewal doctor as scarring is inevitable if left untreated.

Frequently asked questions

Are treatments for acne in dark skin types available at all Skin Renewal clinics?

What are the causes of acne in dark skin types?

The result is a dilated pore filled with white cells, inflammatory and anti-inflammatory chemicals and bacteria. This is the content of the acne pimple.

How can acne be classified in dark skin types?

Mild to moderate acne consists mostly of comedones, papules, and pustules, but no or very few nodules are present in the skin.
Severe acne has many papules, pustules and nodules present in the skin

This severe acne may be more common in males, and this kind of acne should be referred to a Skin Renewal doctor as scarring is inevitable if left untreated.

Reviewed on 13 March 2024 by Jonathan Òlal Ogwang

Skin Renewal Durban | Dark Skin Laser Treatments

Very appreciated! My assigned doctor, Nicolette, was very passionate, knowledgeable and patient! Do not hesitate- just do it! Well worth it and highly recommended. Keep it up! All the best and many blessings!

Reviewed on 16 November 2022 by Takalani Thaba

Skin Renewal Waterfall | Dark Skin Laser Treatments

Susan is amazing and my skin looks great! The space looks like heaven! Love it!

Reviewed on 8 June 2022 by Kopani Mosidi

Skin Renewal Brooklyn | Dark Skin Laser Treatments

I have had such an incredible experience with Skin Renewal since I started my journey. I have seen a lot of improvement in my skin. It takes time, but the investment pays off. Dr Lawn - is the sweetest and most understanding doctor and my therapist, just fantastic service from you, and you are just a breath of fresh air.

Reviewed on 20 April 2022 by Zamantungwa Zwane

Skin Renewal Bedfordview | Dark Skin Laser Treatments

Received excellent treatment from Skin Renewal Bedfordview. Went in to treat acne and I could see improvement on my skin after 1st treatment, I love their products as well.

Reviewed on 25 June 2015 by Thoko M

Skin Renewal Morningside Sandton |

Pro-active staff. I came for a peel and staff arranged an appointment with the doctor> as well. I saved time and got what I needed.

Reviewed on 4 March 2015 by Virginia Mkhabela

Skin Renewal Fourways | 3D Peel

The doctor examined my skin when I first came to Skin Renewal in March 2014 at the Fourways branch, and the prescription she made has worked wonderfully and my skin is currently looking healthy and beautiful. It seems like a miracle has transformed my skin. She is a very pleasant person and has advised me well. Nicole has also been my therapist, she has done incredibly well with my treatment and I will continue to do my treatments with her.

Reviewed on 19 October 2014 by Mrs A. T.

Skin Renewal Parkhurst | Laser Genesis™ Rejuvenation

I have been so with Happy with the service and treatments done by my therapist, Kelly! I have been a client for two years and will continue with Kelly hopefully for along time. I enjoy every session!!!

Reviewed on 15 September 2014 by K.N from Skin Renewal Morningside

Skin Renewal Morningside Sandton | Laser Hair Removal

Candice has been a very accommodating and great through all my treatments, especially during the painful times.

Reviewed on 4 September 2014 by Rumbi

Skin Renewal Morningside Sandton | Beta Hydroxy Peels

My overall experience at the Morningside Skin Renewal has been amazing. The treatments with beauty therapists who try to understand your skin and make suitable recommendations has been helpful. In my case, Bianca has been great. I enjoy my visits and treatments.