When treating acne, there are so many options and considerations!
The things to consider are the age of the client, areas most affected, nutrition, hygiene, the severity of the acne, and any medications the client takes.
Let’s break these down!
Treating acne in teenagers is different that treating adult acne. Both can be related to hormonal fluctuations, but adult acne is often a dry acne verses teen acne is usually an over production of sebum. We are going to focus on teenage acne today.
Common treatments include the following:
1.We need to cleanse the skin twice a day to keep dirt, oils, and makeup from clogging pores.
2.Exfoliate three times a week to be sure the pores are clear of dead skin cells. An enzyme exfoliant is best so as not to break open blemishes, which can spread bacteria and worsen the condition. This step is included in a professional facial, but should also be incorporated in home care routines.
3.See an esthetician for high frequency treatments. This electro therapy kills bacteria deeper in the skin, which triggers the blemishes to dry up and clear out within a couple of days. However, very large blemishes May take a couple of these treatments close together to completely get rid of it. This treatment also helps prevent future breakouts.
4.Chemical peels are another great way of getting a deeper exfoliation and clear up blemishes. My favorite chemical peel for teenage acne is a Glycolic Peel, because it binds water and helps hydrate the skin during the exfoliation to prevent excessive dryness. It is good for all skin types as long as there is not an allergy to strawberries. There are more aggressive peels such as Salicylic, but they tend to cause more irritation, especially on those with sensitive skin. These peels can be done as often as every two weeks.
5.Vitamins A, C, E, & K as well as magnesium may help both internally and topically.
6.Antibiotics may be prescribed by a physician or dermatologist to treat the bacteria from the inside, especially if the acne is widespread to places other than just the face.
7.Females may look into birth control to help regulate the hormones that cause some acne.
8.As a LAST resort when all other treatments fail, a dermatologist may prescribe Accutane. This is for extreme cystic type acne, but there are a lot of serious side effects with this medication. Do your research before agreeing to take this medication. You should not see an esthetician while taking this medication or for at least 6 months after stopping.
Home Care Tips:
1.Cleanse twice a day and exfoliate 3 times a week.
2.Limit consumption of sugar and dairy. It’s a good idea to go 2 weeks without one or the other to see how your skin reacts to each.
3.Change pillow case 2-3 times a week.
4.Use an oil-free moisturizing sunscreen every morning.
5.Use oil-free makeup, if you must wear makeup.
6.Cover face when using hair styling products such as hairspray.
7.Do NOT try to dry out your skin, as this will cause more sebum (oil) production.
8.Do NOT scrub or scratch blemishes open. Not only does it spread bacteria, it also causes scarring.
9.Do NOT touch your face.
10.If you know how to do proper extractions, be sure to wipe down (pores on the face point down, so wiping up will push the bacteria into other pores). Then, use Tea Tree Oil as an antibacterial over any extractions.