Let's talk about the different players in the acne game.
First up, we have papules and pustules – the red, bumpy rebels that love to make a grand entrance. These guys tend to be accompanied by inflammation and often pus-filled heads.
Then, there are nodules and cysts – the heavyweights of the acne world, lurking beneath the surface and causing havoc. These deep-seated bumps are not only painful but also a sign that acne means business.
And let's not forget about those sneaky whiteheads and blackheads – the non-inflammatory types of acne that like to play hide-and-seek with our pores.
Whether it's a red, angry papule or a stubborn blackhead, acne comes in all shapes and sizes, each one with its own unique challenges.
ACNE
Ah, acne – the pesky skin problem that loves to overstay its welcome. We're going to arm you with the right knowledge and skincare arsenal, so you're ready to tackle acne head-on and learn how to manage your skin going forward.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN FACTORS CAUSING ACNE?
OIL PRODUCTION & HORMONES
When it comes to acne, oil overproduction and hormonal fluctuations team up. Excess oil production clogs pores, while hormonal imbalances can throw skin's equilibrium off balance, leading to breakouts.
BACTERIA
Our skins natural inhabitants, some people have more than others or their body doesn’t manage it as well – this can all lead to inflammation within the follicles, leading to breakouts.
GUT HEALTH
Gut health plays a crucial role in acne management, with things like dairy and sugar potentially triggering breakouts. Keeping tabs on your food intake, stress levels, and menstrual cycles can help identify these.
I am a huge believer in speaking to the experts; so if we think in clinic your gut is possibly playing a bigger role with your skin, we would always advise seeking guidance from a nutritionist or dietician.
FAQ
How do I manage/prevent breakouts?
Skin Hygiene – changing pillowcases (top tip – buy 5 cheap ones – put them on in one go, remove one every night so you are sleeping on a clean surface)
Clean your mobile screen and make up brushes regularly.
Use fresh face cloths and towels.
What triggers acne?
Many different things, it can be very individual.
A good way to monitor this is to keep a skin diary (either write it down or use phone notes). Log breakouts/food/activity/stress levels etc. This is often a really helpful way to find a pattern.
How do you treat/manage acne?
There are many options available depending on your type of acne, the behaviour of it and how it is impacting you.
This can range from daily skin routines, use of certain active ingredients, in clinic treatments such as chemical peels and if needed medications which are managed via a Dermatologist, who are doctors specialising in skin conditions.
