Acne
Lone Tree, CO 80124
What it is
Inflamed and/or infected sebaceous glands from oil, sweat, or dead skin cells. It’s most common in adolescence and young adults.
Common Causes/triggers
- Genetics- individuals with family history of acne are at higher risk
- Hormones- a change in hormones or unbalanced hormones produce androgens that can cause acne
- Lifestyle/Diet- inflammatory foods (dairy, gluten, sugar, vegetable oils) or uncontrolled stress increases inflammation and stress hormones leading to acne
- Medications- acne can be a side effect of some drugs or medications, especially drugs containing hormones
- Cosmetics- use of comedogenic products (that are clogging pores) trigger acne flare ups
Photo credit: Parker Dermatology
Types of acne
Blackheads
Whiteheads
Papules
Pustules
Cystic
Nodules
Photo credit: Insider
How to treat acne
Medical grade skincare:
Using medical grade skincare that contains benzyl peroxide and salicylic acid is the 1st line treatment for acne. Topical retinoids can also be helpful alongside a SPF 30+ and light weight moisturizer. Medical grade skincare is more potent and effective than drug store skincare.
Monthly facials/chem peels:
Appropriate exfoliation, extractions, high frequency, blue light, and acne-based chemical peels help heal the skin and rid of excess oils, bacteria, and dead skin. Relieving and preventing acne takes time and commitment, so monthly facials are recommended until acne is gone or subsided. The medical-grade Vi Peel is a blend of acids that work to resurface the skin at an optimal “sheet peeling” level to help decongest the skin and improve acne scarring.
IPL
IPL, or also known as a photofacial, is an intense pulse light that helps to target the bacteria that causes acne while also diminishing the pigmentation left behind from acne or post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. A series of 3-6 is usually recommended, or continual treatments until acne has improved.
Diet and lifestyle:
Managing stress, limiting inflammatory foods, and drinking plenty of water help. Not to mention also cleaning pillowcases, towels, and makeup brushes. Avoid picking at the skin by getting professional extractions.
Consider working with a holistic nutritionist or integrative medicine practitioner for optimal gut health and internal healing as well.
*Of Note*
There are many different types (grades) of acne and it’s important you go to a trained medical professional to get a proper diagnosis first to understand the underlying cause of your condition and not just what symptoms you’re having. For instance, many people don’t know they have an underlying gut imbalance, hormonal problem or food sensitivity. Without continual care, these conditions will come back (and sometimes even worse). See a trusted provider for a complete, individualized treatment plan, just for you!