How to Tackle Acne, Insights From a Doctor

Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages and can have a significant impact on self-esteem and overall well-being. While there are various causes and types of acne, the good news is that it's treatable and also manageable. Let’s look at how to tackle acne and achieve clearer, healthier skin. Understand the Causes There are many different types of acne, so let’s break them down. To effectively tackle acne, it's crucial to understand the underlying causes. Acne is primarily triggered by the overproduction of oil (sebum), clogged pores, and the presence of bacteria on the skin. Hormonal fluctuations, genetics, certain medications, and lifestyle factors can exacerbate the condition. Recognizing these factors helps in formulating an appropriate treatment plan.

Stick to a Consistent Skincare Routine

Developing a consistent skincare routine is essential for managing acne. Start by using a gentle cleanser twice a day to remove dirt, excess oil, and dead skin cells. Avoid harsh scrubs or abrasive products as they can irritate the skin and worsen acne. Choose non-comedogenic moisturisers and sunscreens to keep your skin hydrated and protected without clogging pores. https://www.foreo.com/mysa/say-goodbye-to-acne-swedish-style/

Don't Overdo It

While it may be tempting to aggressively cleanse or scrub your face, excessive washing can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. This can, in turn, trigger the skin to produce more oil, worsening acne. Remember, a gentle approach is key.

Seek Professional Guidance

If over-the-counter products aren't providing satisfactory results, it's advisable to consult a dermatologist. A dermatologist can evaluate your specific case, determine the type of acne, and prescribe appropriate medications or treatments tailored to your needs. They may recommend topical or oral medications, such as retinoids, antibiotics, or hormonal therapy, to target acne at its source.

Avoid Picking and Popping

Resist the urge to pick or pop pimples as it can lead to scarring, inflammation, and the spread of bacteria. Instead, apply spot treatments containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to reduce redness and promote healing. Gentle, non-comedogenic makeup can be used to camouflage acne without aggravating the condition.

Consider Lifestyle Factors

Certain lifestyle factors can contribute to acne. Keep your stress levels in check as stress can trigger hormonal fluctuations that worsen acne. Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while minimising processed foods and excessive sugar consumption. Regular exercise and adequate sleep can also promote healthy skin.

Be Patient and Persistent:

Acne treatments require time to show noticeable results. It's important to be patient and stick to your treatment plan even if you don't see immediate improvement.  Follow up with your dermatologist regularly to assess progress and make any necessary adjustments. https://www.foreo.com/mysa/clear-skin-at-your-fingertips-foreo-just-launched-espada-2-the-ultimate-solution-for-acne-prone-skin/

FOREO’s skin expert, Dr. RajArora, shares her tips on what skincare you should use morning/night to help tackle acne?

Acne skin is usually oily and blemish prone. As a first step - It is important to ensure a really effective cleansing routine is in place. I would recommend that they use a gel based cleanser along with a silicone cleansing device like the LUNA™ 4. Using a smart device like this will help with removing dirt, oil and dead skin cells off the skin's surface effectively. If the skin is congested I tend to recommend a salicylic based toner to help unclog pores and keep breakouts at bay. Salicylic acid serums and spot treatments are also great to help get on top of the breakouts. A blue light LED therapy can help to kill the p.acnes bacteria that lead to acne. My favourite blue light device is the Espada - it’s super easy to use and can target individual spots or acne prone areas. It is also important to finish the skincare routine with a lightweight moisturiser (non pore blocking) and a good SPF to protect from UV damage. 

How often should people with acne use masks/spot treatments, and what type of masks/ spot treatments are best?

Spot treatments can be used regularly but often they can be quite drying for the skin so it is important to moisturise with a lightweight non-comedogenic moisturiser. I recommend my patients to use spot treatments on any new spots that may crop up and to couple up with a blue led light device. When looking for an effective spot treatment - look for ingredients such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or zinc oxide. The FOREO ESPADA™ BHA+PHA blemish solution is a great option. It is a 2% salicylic acid gel designed to minimise the appearance of breakouts, pores and excess oil. The spot gel also has a combination of hydrating ingredients to combat the drying effect that many traditional spot treatments can have. You can also use it effectively with the blue LED light device mentioned! Acne can be a frustrating and distressing condition, but with the right approach, it's manageable. By understanding the causes, adopting a consistent skincare routine, seeking professional guidance when needed, and considering lifestyle factors, you can effectively tackle acne and achieve clearer, healthier skin. Stay committed and patient, and soon you'll be on your way to a brighter, blemish-free complexion.