ADULT ACNE: WHAT CAUSES IT AND HOW TO (FINALLY) OVERCOME IT
At minimum it’s frustrating and at worst it can feel downright unfair and a pretty depressing. We’re talking about adult acne.
Often, just as you get your acne under control, and for no apparent reason, you break out all over again. So, why are you still dealing with acne? The truth is, no one has a definitive answer as why some peple experience adult acne and others don't. However, but we are here to inform you about the main causes at play and what you can do to take back control.
So, let’s cut straight to the cause: Acne is, in simple terms an obstructive disease caused by the blockage of a hair follicle (pore). The obstruction can be caused by dead skin cells and/or oil as well as general dirt and pollutants from the environment. Over time, the oil gland continues to produce oil, and the blockage prevents it from reaching the surface of the skin and a swelling under the surface of the skin ooccurs. Eventually this will result in small cysts (lumps) under the skin or even the oil gland to rupture which releases oil and dead skin cells into the dermis. The dermis does not like this and sets up an inflammatory reaction (redness and swelling). The bacteria in the hair follicle then create infection and viola, you have you have yourself an acne pustule (pimple).
Hormonal fluctuations, stress and diet all likely play a role as well. Where you’re a teenager, your hormones are naturally fluctuating, and you can’t control it. Similarly, as an adult you also experience hormonal changes, stress and inflammation.
The good news is that 90% of acne can be treated without the need for medication. So, what can you do?
MICRODERMABRASION
MICRODERMABRASION is one of the most effective defenses in fighting acne. Our micro treatment for acne/oily skin was developed to get existing under control and to prevent further acne. The 12-step treatment includes exfoliation, extractions, AHA/BHA mask, peel and more to normalise the skin and balance oil. We recommend a program of micros every 3 – 4 weeks to kick-start your acne recovery.
LED LIGHT THERAPY
LED LIGHT THERAPY is also a great addition to combat acne and simply requires you to lie beneath the light while it gets to work killing bacteria on the skin, particularly P.acnes (Blue Light) or targeting inflammation (Yellow Light).
There is also research to support the effect diet has on the condition, with high GI foods shown to aggravate acne in predisposed people. Try cutting down on wheat and processed, sugary foods and gauge how your skin responds. Also, up your intake of anti-inflammatory foods such as green leafy veggies, tomatoes, nuts, fish and low GI whole grains.
Other factors to consider are ensuring you are taking steps to manage stress and get enough sleep, which also impact on inflammation in the body.
QUICK TIPS
- Make sure you are using the correct cosmeceutical-grade products at home, prescribed to suit your skin. If you’re not sure, please consult with one of our skin technicians.
- Maintain frequent treatments such as Microdermabrasions, RF and LED Light Therapy.
- Avoid picking or touching skin – this can lead to scarring and spread bacteria
- Make-up- use a mineral make-up after your prescribed skincare and wash make up brushes weekly. and ideally use an antibacterial Brush Cleaner like Issada Brush Cleaner
- Change your pillowcase every other night - sleep one one side the first night then turn it over to sleep on the other side the second night to prevent bacteria spreading.
- Avoid getting hair sprays, gels and waxes on your face by pulling your hair back away from your cheeksand forehead
- Reduce stress and improve sleep.
- Reduce processed sugars and high GI foods.
Our Ashmore clinic has treated acne since 1996 and offers a discrete and professional environment for all your aesthetic needs with free parking at the door.
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