Acne is a common skin concern that affects millions of people, from teenagers to adults. For many, it can lead to low self-confidence and even an avoidance of social events. While many over-the-counter products are available, sometimes professional treatments, guided by an experienced aesthetic physician, can provide more effective and lasting results.
Let’s look at some easy starting points for those of you struggling with acne.
First off, skin care is of upmost importance. There are 4 things that you need to have in your skin care routine for maximum benefit.
- Benzoyl peroxide. This is antibacterial especially for those pesky skin bacteria that can cause acne. There are many type of benzoyl peroxide. Sometimes, people stop using this product because it can be so harsh. Over the counter products that are mild are Cerave and Cetaphil. If you are needing something stronger. Talk to your provider, as there are medical grade products especially made to be gentle on your skin, yet strong and effective.
- Salicylic acid. This is great for unclogging pores. This is a must to help prevent further outbreaks. Again, this can be quite irritating on skin, and therefore, many people stop using it due to its harsh qualities. But medical grade products are especially formulated to work well, but be gentle on skin. I usually recommend starting using twice a week then increasing to daily over time. Let your skin get used to the products but start early to help prevent further breakouts.
- Retinol. Retinols are used to help exfoliate our skin, and let the new skin shine through. Without the use of a retinol, skin will pile up, clog pores and create acne. There are so many types of retinol out there. The best bet is to use a medial grade retinol. There are many types of medical grade retinols. They can range from a gentle retinaldehyde to a stronger tretinoin that is prescription. Because of the exfoliating nature of retinols, I also recommend starting slowly, twice a week then increasing to nightly. I do not recommend over the counter retinols as they are not very strong, and with further research, you may not be getting true retinol, but a retinol like product.
- Sunscreen. Sun damages the healthy cells, and creates an increase in melanin formation which can lead to sun spots later in life. By applying a physical form of sunscreen, something with zinc oxide in it, you will help to ward off those harmful rays, protect your beautiful skin, and further prevent acne breakouts. But, you say, that sun burns kill off all the acne and new skin forms, why not just do that? The answer is simple, sun is extremely damaging, and we can get the same result with chemical peels and other aesthetic procedures, without the damaging effects of the sun.
The following 4 aesthetic procedures can be used to maximize the results of your acne treatments.
- Chemical Peels. Chemical peels offer a targeted approach to treating acne and improving skin texture. These treatments work by exfoliating the skin’s surface, removing dead skin cells, and unclogging pores, which helps reduce acne breakouts and prevent future occurrences. Various peels are available, each tailored to address specific skin concerns, including acne. The peels utilize potent ingredients to penetrate the skin deeply, promoting cellular turnover and revealing smoother, clearer skin. Moreover, chemical peels can also significantly diminish the appearance of acne scars and hyperpigmentation. By stimulating collagen production, they help heal active acne and enhance the skin’s texture and tone.
- Aquagold micro-infusion. This procedure involves using a specialized device with 24-karat gold needles to deliver a custom blend of microdoses of Xeomin (botulinum toxin) and hyaluronic acid directly into the skin. (other peptides and vitamins may be used as well) This actually helps to minimize the sebum production in the top layers of the skin, preventing breakouts. In addition, it helps to improve overall skin texture by stimulating collagen production and providing deep hydration. All in all, the Aquagold Facial is ideal for those seeking a gentle yet effective solution for clearer, smoother skin.
- Micro-needling. Micro-needling is a non-invasive way to stimulate collagen production, reduce the appearance of post-inflammatory pigmentation caused by acne scarring, help to minimize pores, promote skin exfoliation, and give a wonderful glow to your skin. Micro-needling can be done every 6-12 weeks for maximum benefit. Adding Exosome therapy or PRF to your micro-needling helps to enhance the procedure by infusing your own natural growth factors or exosomes into the skin for faster, more robust results.
- Cartessa CoolPeel. This is a CO2 laser that works on the superficial layers of the skin. It is virtually painless and can also be done every 6-12 weeks for maximum benefit. This innovative procedure uses advanced laser technology to deliver precise, controlled thermal energy to the skin, targeting damaged tissue and promoting collagen production without significant downtime. Over time, it can help to reduce acne scars, immediately improves skin texture and starts to diminish the appearance of pores, ultimately leading to a clearer and smoother complexion.
Skincare Products & Other Tips
When booking an appointment at Ericsson Aesthetics, I can further recommend specific brands of skincare products to help with your acne and other skin concerns.
Other things to keep in mind include:
- Maintaining a consistent skincare routine
- Saying hydrated
- Eating a whole-food diet
- Managing stress
- Avoiding picking at blemishes
- Changing your pillowcase regularly
- Practicing patience with treatments (It may take more than a few sessions to notice results!)
Curious about the treatments listed above? Contact me today to learn more. Together, we can determine the best path forward for alleviating your skin concerns.
