June 19, 2024
Skincare For Acne
Finding The Best Approach
Although acne is more common in teenagers, it can affect individuals of any age. Acne can arise from various factors, including hormones, lifestyle, and hygiene practices. Regardless of the cause, a good skincare routine can significantly reduce your chances of developing acne.
| Acne Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Blackheads | Pores clogged with sebum and dead skin cells, exposed to air, causing the material to oxidize and turn black. |
| Whiteheads | Pores clogged with sebum and dead skin cells, but the pore remains closed, preventing oxidation. |
| Bacterial Acne | Bacterial acne is a form of acne caused by the overgrowth of bacteria, such as Cutibacterium acnes, within clogged pores, leading to inflammation and breakouts. |
Even if you experience more complex forms of acne, such as cystic or hormonal acne, managing it through skincare is crucial. There are three essential steps to effectively manage acne:
STEP 1: EXFOLIATION VIA AHA SERUMS
Exfoliating the skin to remove dead skin cells helps prevent clogged pores, which can lead to acne. Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) serums are a superior alternative to physical scrubs, which can be too abrasive and damage the skin barrier, leading to further issues.
We recommend using an AHA serum because they gently dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, making it easier for them to be shed during cleansing. This process reveals fresher, smoother skin underneath.Apply the AHA serum during your night time routine, and you only need to apply 1-3 times per week for product to be effective (depending on skin-type and sensitivity).
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I EXFOLIATE?
| Skin Type | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Sensitive or Thin Skin | Once Per Week |
| Normal Skin | 1-2 x Per Week |
| Oily & Combination Skin | 2-3 x Per Week |
| Adolescent Skin | Begin with Once Per Week |
STEP 2: GENTLE CLEANSING
A good cleanser gently dissolves and removes excess sebum buildup, impurities, skincare products, and any dead skin cells resulting from AHA application. It should leave your skin feeling clean and refreshed, not stripped or dry. If you cleanse twice daily, it should be mild enough for use both morning and night.
Removing excess sebum buildup is crucial in controlling acne. Sebum itself isn't the enemy; it actually plays a vital role in maintaining the overall health of the skin barrier. The real issue arises when excess sebum oxidizes on the skin, creating an environment conducive to black heads or bacterial acne. Regular cleansing helps to reduce sebum-related acne by keeping the skin free of excess oil and impurities.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I CLEANSE?
| Skin Type | Frequency | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Oily & Combination Skin | Twice Daily | If you have oily skin, than you will likely need to cleanse twice daily - morning and night. The morning cleanse is to remove any oil-build up overnight before applying your skincare for the day. |
| Other Skin Types | Once Daily | Night Only. Unless you are applying night-time skincare such as face oils or creams, which we do recommend removing in the morning before applying your skincare for the day. |
STEP 3: FACE MOISTURISING
Maintaining a healthy skin barrier is crucial for vibrant, happy skin. Opt for a non-comedogenic moisturizer that not only hydrates but also replenishes the essential lipids lost during cleansing, ensuring your skin barrier remains lubricated and flexible. Our skincare products excel in this area, delivering vital lipids to promote optimal skin health.
Moisturizing after cleansing is important to restore your skin with both hydration and essential lipids.