Comprehensive Acne Management Guidelines for Singaporeans from the Dermatological Society of Singapore

Acne Management Guidelines by the Dermatological Society of Singapore

Due to the diverse population with varied skin types in Singapore, clinicians often encounter challenges when managing acne among their patients. In , we present comprehensive guidelines designed to d doctors treating individuals of Asian descent in the management of acne. The document emphasizes unique aspects of acne common in Singapore, including considerations like diet and treatment options for special populations. It addresses concerns such as side effects, risks, benefits, and cost-effectiveness associated with current acne treatments.

offer recommations for diagnosing, grading, and treating children, adolescents, and adults suffering from acne of varying severities, encompassing advice on the use of cosmeceuticals and scar management strategies. This resource serves as a reference guide that can help all healthcare professionals ensure personalized care for their patients with acne.

Keywords: Propionibacterium acnes; Singapore; acne scar; acne vulgaris; adjunctive therapy; antibiotics; benzoyl peroxide; contraceptives; cosmeceuticals; diet; fixed combination; hormonal therapy; irritation; laser therapy; light therapy; retinoid; systemic therapy; topical therapy; treatment guidelines.

Background

The prevalence and severity of acne vary widely across different ethnicities, with Asians being more prone to acne vulgaris due to unique skin characteristics. The Dermatological Society of Singapore DSS has developed these guidelines in collaboration with medical experts as part of their commitment to advancing the care and management of acne among individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Data Analysis

The year-on-year comparison of male and female incidence of acne revealed a steady rise, indicating the growing prevalence across different age groups. A significant factor contributing to acne was found to be food intolerance, specifically the consumption of dry products and foods high in sugar content.

Classification Management Strategies

classify acne based on severity into mild, moderate, and severe categories to tlor treatment plans accordingly:

• Mild: Non-inflammatory lesions blackheads and whiteheads

Treatment recommations may include over-the-counter topical solutions such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Regular skin care routines focusing on gentle cleansing and moisturizing can also be beneficial.

• Moderate: Presence of inflammatory lesions papules, pustules along with non-inflammatory ones

For moderate cases, a combination therapy approach might include over-the-counter products contning benzoyl peroxide combined with topical retinoids or tretinoin. Additionally, prescription-strength oral antibiotics may be recommed to manage bacterial colonization.

• Severe: Severe inflammatory lesions nodules and cysts

In severe cases, recomm a multi-modal approach incorporating potent oral or topical antibiotics as well as potentially systemic treatments like isotretinoin Accutane. For patients with significant scarring concerns, cosmetic procedures such as laser therapy, chemical peels, and micro-needling may be suggested.

Special Considerations

emphasize individualized treatment approaches for special populations:

1. Children: The use of topical treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide or tretinoin gel, is recommed under the supervision of a pediatric dermatologist.

2. Adolescents: Hormonal contraceptives can help in managing severe acne by controlling androgen levels; however, they should be used with caution due to potential side effects like menstrual irregularities.

3. Adults: Lifestyle modifications focusing on diet management, regular exercise, and stress reduction are encouraged alongside topical treatments like retinoids or chemical peels for skin rejuvenation.

Cosmeceuticals Scar Management

recomm the use of cosmeceutical products that offer benefits such as hydration, antioxidant protection, and skin brightening. For scar management:

1. Sun Protection: To prevent hyperpigmentation post-acne, using broad-spectrum sunscreens with high SPF is advised.

2. Non-Surgical Scar Treatments: Incorporating laser therapy for scar reduction can be considered as an alternative to surgical interventions.

These comprehensive guidelines provide a structured approach for healthcare providers treating patients of Asian descent suffering from acne vulgaris, considering factors such as skin type, special population needs, and the benefits and risks associated with various treatment options. m to ensure that personalized care plans are developed based on individual patient characteristics and preferences, leading to effective management outcomes.

: These guidelines do not replace professional medical advice but serve as a reference tool for healthcare practitioners. The Dermatological Society of Singapore DSS acknowledges the support received from Menarini through an unrestricted educational grant; however, this support did not influence editorial indepence in preparing these guidelines.
This article is reproduced from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31531161/

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