ACNE
Learn more about acne and how Obagi products can help
Reasons For Acne
Acne or as it is medically known, ‘Acne Vulgaris is a skin condition that affects millions of people. It is estimated that over six hundred million have it.
Symptoms of acne include whiteheads, pimples, blackheads, greasy skin and scarring.
Hormonal Fluctuations
Changes in a person’s hormones (both male and female) can dramatically affect the occurrence of acne. Specific factors include the development of puberty as well as variations because of the menstrual cycle. Complications can occur because of variations in hormones such as testosterone. Consumption of certain products such as anabolic and oral steroids can make acne worse.
Stress, Genetics and Lifestyle
Puberty – During puberty, for both boys and girls, the body starts to produce male hormones known as androgens. The result can be that pores become blocked with sticky skin cells and excess oil, leading to inflammation and deep spots.
Genetics – Genetics determine the size and activity of oil glands, both of which play an important role in acne. Many people who suffer from acne are likely to have relatives that have also been affected during their lifetime. Either way, don't be alarmed by the factors you can't control; there are likely to be effective treatment/product options.
Other Factors
Other factors – Less common causes of acne include cosmetics, hair-styling products e.g. gels/waxes, medications, medical conditions that can cause hormonal fluctuations, and occlusion from wearing headbands, shoulder pads and backpacks.
Acne Facts and Fiction
❖ Acne can show up in a variety of ways.
❖ Generally, it falls into two camps. 1) Non-inflammatory and starts as open comedones (blackheads), or 2) closed comedones (whiteheads).
❖ Acne starts off by looking like little bumps or lumps on the skin because of blocked pores.
❖ As time goes by, these bumps can become increasingly inflamed and small reddish bumps aka papules or pus-filled spots can occur.
❖ In more severe cases, deep, red and tender spots develop, known medically as nodules or cysts. This type of acne, also referred to as ‘cystic acne’, can result in scarring and needs a deeper treatment, often requiring a prescription strength option.
Acne Answers
❖ Many people try to manage their spots with products available over the counter i.e. without a prescription.
❖ Using the correct blend of formulas and ingredients is vital to get a positive result.
❖ As general advice, avoid using facial oils and cleansers and moisturizers with thick creamy feels.
❖ Ingredients you should keep your eye out for is salicylic acid, glycolic acid, zinc, tea tree oil, benzoyl peroxide, niacinamide lactobionic acid, retinol, and retinyl palmitate.
❖ If products you buy over the counter fail to help your acne or you would like some professional advice, book a non-commitment consultation with one of the Mayer Monroe practitioners.