Acne can create a temporary skin problem or a long-lasting issue. It is important to uncover the truth about acne and find a treatment solution that will get results for you.
Acne is a generalized term referring to clogged pores in the face, neck and torso causing various types of nodules, papules or pustules on the skin. The exact mechanisms causing acne are still not fully understood, but we do know that the pores are clogged with a combination of dead skin, oils and bacteria. The clogged pores lead to increased inflammation and serve as a reservoir for bacterial growth. The resulting effects cause skin manifestations that can create significant psychological effects, including low self-esteem, depression and anxiety, particularly in adolescents.
It is reported that as many as 80-90% of teenagers will experience some level of acne with up to 50% of individuals experiencing it into their 20’s. However, acne is not just limited to teens. We also know that adults can get acne due to factors like health, stress and diet.
And now, more of us are managing “maskne” – pore blockages and oil build-up – caused by face mask irritation and increased humidity from the daily wear of our face masks / coverings.
Acne or maskne can be frustrating no matter what age you are. Here are some tips to prevent them and the stress associated with it:
Cleanse Properly
Wash your face two times per day to remove dead skin and oil. Washing more frequently can irritate or dry skin. Use a gentle cleanser designed specifically for the face. Harsh body washes can increase skin irritation. Use warm water; cold water does not clean the skin well enough and hot water dries the skin out. Use your hands to wash your face as cloths or other scrubbing material can increase skin irritation.
DO NOT Pick or Pop
As tempting as this may be, do not try to squeeze or pop pimples and blackheads. Squeezing can drive the bacteria deeper into the skin and spread the inflammation, which makes the breakout worse. Picking can also lead to scarring.
Protect Your Skin
Utilize a daily moisturizer to help maintain skin health. If you wear make-up, wash it off at the end of each day. Wear sunscreen daily, even in the winter. Some topical acne treatments contain ingredients that make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Make sure that all products you put on your face say “noncomedogenic” on the bottle or are water-based rather than oil-based.
Watch Your Diet
Diet can have a significant effect on inflammation throughout your body. While there are no trials providing dietary recommendations specific to acne, avoiding high-inflammatory foods could help. The most common foods identified with a relationship to acne are milk and highly processed, high sugar foods.
Hydrafacial for Acne
One of the best options available for acne treatment is the HydraFacial. This patented acne treatment consists of cleansing, exfoliation, extraction and hydration. Once all these steps are completed, hyaluronic acid, peptides and antioxidants are applied to your skin.
It is a highly effective non-invasive, non-surgical treatment that takes about 30 minutes. It does not require any downtime, and unlike many comparable acne treatment options, the treatment does not cause discomfort.
Treat Maskne
You can address skin issues brought on by wearing a mask or facial covering by keeping your skin clean and free of dirt and oil. If you are suffering from breakouts due to wearing a mask, refrain from wearing make-up, use a cleanser and acne treatment with salicylic acid and apply a light moisturizer. Make sure to wash your mask regularly or consider using disposable masks.
Schedule A Skin Consultation
At Jersey Shore Aesthetics and Wellness, we offer the latest in advanced skin and acne treatment. Our skin care expert will provide education, clear instructions and a custom treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
For more information on how to protect your skin from an acne breakout or to treat a current one, CONTACT US to schedule a consultation
