Everything you need to know about acne
Why do I have acne?
Acne is an inherited disorder of the pores, where dead skin cells are shed much faster than normal. Normal pores shed about one layer of dead skin cells per day inside the pore. Acne-prone pore sheds up to five layers of dead skin cells per day and the body just can’t keep up. This process forms the microcomedone, which is the beginning of all acne. Taking up to 90 days, the build up of dead skin cells turns into blackheads or congestion under the skin. And if bacteria is present, which just loves to feed on the dead skin cells and oil, it turns into inflamed pimples or pustules and maybe even cysts.
What causes acne?
Although acne is an inherited disorder there are many factors that can make matters worse. Certain foods, medications, cosmetics, stress, and pore-clogging ingredients in skin and hair products can increase the severity of acne and are considered barriers to getting clear. Making lifestyle adjustments can make a huge difference in achieving clear skin.
How do I treat and prevent acne?
When it comes to acne, committing to a homecare regimen that is customized to your acne’s type and severity is key. At Faces, we use Face Reality Skincare products and treatments. An esthetician who has advanced training and is an acne specialist can help customize a homecare routine for you that includes a treatment product in the morning to treat existing acne as well as a treatment product in the evening to prevent future breakouts. Since acne takes 90 days to form having professional in office treatments every two weeks for 3 months is key to success. These in office treatments might include chemical peels, manual extractions and LED therapy. Join our Acne Bootcamp, which has a 95% success rate when it is followed as instructed.
How can I minimize the after effects of acne?
Once you are clear, there are often post inflammatory erythema (redness), post inflammatory hyperpigmentation and/or textural concerns left over from where your acne was. Chemical exfoliation and microneedling can be helpful in addressing these concerns.
