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Acne

What is acne, exactly?

Acne is a skin condition that affects over 54% of British adults. Acne occurs when hair follicles are clogged with oil and dead skin cells which can result in the formation of pimples, whiteheads, blackheads and occasionally deeper cysts and nodules.

Acne most commonly appears on the face, but it can also affect the neck, chest, back, shoulders and upper arms.

 

acne condition

Dispelling the Myths

There are a number of myths and misconceptions about acne that you will likely have heard. Here are some of the common misconceptions you may have heard:

Myth 1: Acne is caused by poor hygiene

Fact: While poor hygiene can impact overall skin health, acne is not solely caused by dirty skin. Excessive washing or exfoliation can actually irritate the skin and worsen acne. Acne is often related to factors including genetics, hormones and excess oil production.

Myth 2: Eating chocolate or greasy foods causes acne

Fact: There is limited scientific evidence supporting a direct link between diet and acne. Responses may vary for individuals, by the majority of people with acne are not affected by specific food. However, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet is essential for overall well-being.

Myth 3: Sun exposure can cure acne

While sun exposure can temporarily improve the appearance of acne due to it's drying effect on the skin, prolonged exposure can lead to other skin issues, including premature ageing and an increase risk of skin cancer.

Myth 4: Acne is only a teenage problem

Fact: Whilst acne is most common during adolescence due to hormonal changes, it can affect people of all ages.

Myth 5: Only people with oily skin get acne

Fact: Acne can affect all skin types, including those with dry or combination skin. While excess oil production is a frequent cause, other factors such as hormonal changes and genetics play a significant role in the development of acne.

What Causes Acne?

Excess Oil Production

Subaceous glans in the skin produce an oily substance called sebum. Excess sebum can mix with dead skin cells and clog hair follicles, creating an environment conducive for developing acne.

Clogged Hair Follicles

When hair follicles become clogged with excess oil and dead skin cells, it creates a favourable enviroment for the growth of bacteria which leads to inflammation of the skin and the formation of acne.

Genetics

A family history of acne can increase the likelihood of an individual developing acne. Genetic factors may influence how the skin responds to hormonal changes and inflammation.

Hormonal Changes

Hormones play a crucial role in the development of acne. Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, menstration, pregnancy and certain conditions can influence sebum production and contribute to the development of acne.

Preventing Acne: Practical Tips

Preventing acne involves adopting a combination of good skincare practices, lifestyle adjustments, and, in some cases, medical interventions. Here are some tips to help prevent acne:

Incorporating topical treatments containing ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or retinoids into your skincare routine can help unclog pores and reduce inflammation.

Stress is one of the highest contributers to acne production. Stress can contribute to hormonal fluctuations that may trigger or worsen acne.

Where possible, refrain from squeezing or picking at acne pustules, as this can lead to scarring and the spread of bacteria.

Drinking enough water can help to keep your skin hydrated and contribute to overall skin health.

Try to refrain from touching your face with your hands, as this can transfer oils, bacteria and other impurities to your skin, potentially leading to breakouts.

How to Treat Acne

Acne Chemical Peels
Acne Chemical Peels

For oily skin, acne, rough texture and superficial pigmentations a course of chemical peels give rejuvenating results. The type of skin peel that is right for you will depend on your concerns and your choices about downtime. Acne chemical peels are typically superficial peels with little or no downtime and only temporary dryness and flakiness for a few days.

Most superficial chemical peels are completely painless. A solution is applied to the skin for a set length of time. It is normal for skin to feel warm or hot as the solution is applied, and a little tight for a few days afterwards.

Medical Grade Skincare
Medical Grade Skincare

Using the highest acclaimed medical-grade skincare products from ZO Skin Health, Skinceuticals and OBAGI, your Clinetix aesthetician will work with you to develop a practical, powerful and effective skincare regiment that manages your acne once and for all.

LED Light Therapy
LED Light Therapy

An outstanding complement to our other solutions for acne, Clinetix offers patients Dermalux LED therapy to accelerate results and stimulate collagen. A relaxing, zero-downtime add-on treatment, LED is an exquisite complement to your skin health journey.

For Acne, Clinetix Recommends

How can we help you?

We know you want to make the correct choices. Choices that will make you feel more confident and attractive. We are here to support you with all the information you need to make informed choices about what will really make the difference for you.

Need some advice? Ask the Expert

We are always on hand to answer any specific questions you may have regarding medical aesthetic treatments or skin care. You will be directed to the member of our team best suited to help you, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

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