June is Acne Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating people about acne, its causes, treatments, and the impact it can have on those who suffer from it. Whether you’re a teenager dealing with your first breakout or an adult experiencing persistent acne, this month aims to provide support and information to help manage and understand this common skin condition.
Understanding Acne
Acne is a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. It often causes whiteheads, blackheads, or pimples and can appear on the face, forehead, chest, upper back, and shoulders. Acne is most common among teenagers, though it affects people of all ages.
Common Causes of Acne:
- Hormonal Changes: Puberty, pregnancy, and menstrual cycles can trigger or worsen acne.
- Diet: Certain foods, like dairy and high-glycemic-index foods, might contribute to acne.
- Stress: Stress doesn’t cause acne but can make it worse.
- Medications: Some drugs, including corticosteroids, androgens, and lithium, can cause acne.
- Genetics: A family history of acne can increase your likelihood of developing it.
Treatment Options
There are many treatment options available for managing acne, from over-the-counter products to prescription medications. The key is to find the right combination that works for your skin type and acne severity.
- Topical Treatments:
- Benzoyl Peroxide: Reduces acne-causing bacteria. We love ZO Skin Health’s Acne Control.
- Salicylic Acid: Helps unclog pores. We love ZO Skin Health’s Complexion Clearing Serum, Oil Control Pads and Complexion Renewal Pads.
- Retinoids: Promote cell turnover and prevent clogged pores. We love ZO Skin Health’s Wrinkle and Texture Repair or tretinoin.
- Oral Medications:
- Antibiotics: Reduce bacteria and inflammation.
- Birth Control Pills: Can regulate hormones in women.
- Isotretinoin (Accutane): For severe acne that doesn’t respond to other treatments.
- Professional Treatments:
- Chemical Peels: Remove dead skin cells and reduce acne lesions. We offer acne focused chemical peels for as low as $125!
- Laser and Light Therapies: Target bacteria and reduce oil production. Forever Clear BBL targets acne specifically.
- Extractions: Remove clogged that are difficult to treat with medication alone.
Myths and Facts About Acne
There are many misconceptions about acne that can lead to ineffective treatments and unnecessary frustration. Let’s debunk some common myths:
- Myth: Acne is caused by poor hygiene.
- Fact: Over-washing can actually irritate the skin and make acne worse.
- Myth: Popping pimples helps them go away faster.
- Fact: Popping pimples can lead to scarring and infections.
- Myth: Moisturizing will cause acne to worsen.
- Fact: Using a moisturizer will keep the skin barrier hydrated and allow active ingredients to be used as directed.
- Myth: Only teenagers get acne.
- Fact: Acne can affect individuals of all ages.
- Myth: Sun exposure helps clear acne.
- Fact: While it might temporarily dry out pimples, sun exposure can damage the skin and worsen acne in the long run. This can also lead to hyperpigmentation of acne spots.
Tips for Managing Acne
- Keep Your Face Clean: Wash your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser.
- Moisturize: Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.
- Avoid Touching Your Face: Reduce the transfer of oils and bacteria to your skin.
- Choose Makeup Wisely: Use oil-free and non-comedogenic products.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to maintain healthy skin.
- COME AND SEE US! We love to help people achieve the skin of their dreams!