Acne and problem skin care

Causes

The causes of different types of acne include many factors, but genetic predisposition definitely plays a significant role. Acne develops in the pores and sebaceous glands (hair-sebaceous follicles) of the skin. The cells in the pores produce keratin, which accumulates and can block the openings. The sebaceous glands on the skin surface also function and produce sebum (oil). Often, bacteria – Propionibacterium acnes – develop in the skin, finding a favorable environment when the pores are clogged and sebum has accumulated.

Another part of the causes of acne are purely individual. In women, for example, it often appears as a premenstrual symptom. Many medications also create a predisposition, such as testosterone, barbiturates, antiepileptic drugs, lithium, and systemic and inhaled corticosteroids. Last but not least, mechanical irritation of the skin should be avoided, as it can also cause acne and leave scars.

An important factor is racial predisposition. In general, people with darker skin suffer less frequently from acne. Darker skin has larger sebaceous glands and better-structured pores on the skin surface, which facilitates its function and gives fewer reasons for acne to manifest. The causes of pimples on the face, acne, comedones, and similar types of acne are the same in people with light and dark skin; however, in darker skin, after the pimples subside, hyperpigmented spots and scars are more common. Therefore, acne treatment in dark skin must be extremely careful.

Diet

For years, specialists believed that fatty foods, soft drinks, and chocolate were among the culprits for acne. However, to date, there is no evidence of a direct link between them. It is considered that these foods are not the cause of acne but can seriously affect it. Excessive consumption generally affects the proper metabolism in the body and, consequently, the health of the skin. It should also be noted that some people are extremely sensitive to certain foods and medications.

Here we share more information about the connection between nutrition and acne.

Cosmetics

Each person's skin reacts differently to care with various cosmetic products. However, if there is a predisposition to acne, the use of non-greasy makeup is mandatory. Some water-based products also contain oils. Therefore, it is advisable to carefully check the ingredients when choosing products and to use trusted brands.

After applying cosmetic products, contact between fingers and the contents of the packaging should be minimal to avoid contaminating the product with bacteria. All makeup application tools must be kept clean.

Pink and red makeup shades draw attention to irritated skin, so neutral tones and warm brown shades close to the natural skin color are more suitable in such cases. Professional makeup artists often mix greenish tones with regular foundation to cover red spots. Another way to conceal problematic skin is to use powder over foundation. To reduce irritation, powders should be applied only with a brush. They are important not only as coverage but also to absorb excess oil from the skin. It is desirable to use a powder with a matte finish.

Keep in mind that some hair products can also cause acne. Be careful with the use of gels, hair mousse, pomades, and hairsprays.

Prevention

• Mechanical irritation – rubbing, squeezing, and picking at inflamed and subsequently healthy areas of the skin further irritates the skin and spreads the bacteria causing acne. This worsens the condition and delays its treatment. Additional problems such as scars and hyperpigmentation of the inflamed areas may also occur.
• Stress intensifies inflammatory processes and as a result, acne may worsen, but it does not cause it. Reducing stress through sports, sleep, and/or meditation improves overall health and skin condition.
• Sunburns dry out the skin and can provoke acne as well as cause hyperpigmentation, so the use of protective products in every season is mandatory.
• Sweating during physical exertion can increase or worsen acne on the face, chest, and back, so maintaining hygiene with the right products is especially important.
• Climate has an external effect on the production of oil in the skin. Humid climates increase oil secretion and can therefore irritate acne-prone skin.

Recommendations

Acne treatment is highly individual, requires extreme consistency, and depends on a holistic approach to health. It is especially important to know that the goal of treatment is to prevent future complications, blockages, and skin infections. Treating infected skin is a daily routine, not a fight during crisis moments. Acne-prone skin treatment should follow a comprehensive approach – the entire area (face, chest, or back) should be treated to achieve a good result. When cleaning the area, the use of a sponge should be avoided to prevent further mechanical irritation of the skin and future scars.

“Acne responds best to products that simultaneously affect oiliness, pore blockage, and the bacteria that have developed – such are the active products from the Acne Out series. If acne is milder, the so-called comedonal acne (black and whiteheads), products containing retinol, benzoyl peroxide, alpha and beta hydroxy acids can be used. The use of topical antibiotics for internal acne treatment is undesirable, as they often cause bacterial resistance.”

If acne is severe, systemic therapy under the supervision of a dermatologist should be applied in addition to topical treatment.

If acne is expressed as blackheads or red bumps with a white tip, it is good to have them cleaned once or twice a week to unclog pores, but only by a specialist.

Although acne is a widespread problem and many different products for treatment and prevention are sold in pharmacies, consultation with a dermatologist who can determine the exact condition and steps to achieve an optimal and long-lasting result is of utmost importance.