All about acne

What is acne?

Acne vulgaris, or acne, is a skin condition that results in a large number of pimples and deep inflamed lesions across a large area of the skin on the face, back or neck. It is usually triggered by three factors:

Dr Ann’Laure Demessant, International scientific communication director at La Roche Posay precise : While commonly associated with puberty  (and rightly so as it affects 80% of teenagers), acne can happen at any stages of life. For example, a staggering 40% of adults are affected.”

Acne can be painful, contribute to low self-confidence and sometimes lead to emotional distress. Fortunately, prevention and effective treatments can help minimize those effects! Don't hesitate to book an appointment with a dermatologist to find the most suitable solution for your skin. His diagnosis is essential to guide you to the right solution, whether it is a topical treatment, a medication or an over-the-counter skincare.

What are the different types of acne?

While most visible on the face, pimples and blackheads can also appear on the neck, shoulders, chest, and back. But do you know where your skin stands on the acne scale? Let's find out by analyzing your pimple's type!

Mild acne

A visible sign of mild acne is the appearance of black and whiteheads on your face and/or body, also called "comedones."

• Blackheads are present on your skin's surface; their darker appearance is caused by oxygenation in contact with air, not dirt!
• Whiteheads are present under your skin's surface, appearing as flesh-colored bumps.

Moderate acne

A visible sign of moderate acne is the appearance of papules and pustules, which are more visible than classic pimples and potentially painful when touching them.

• Papules appear as small, raised bumps that are reddish in color. They are caused by swollen or infected hair follicles.
• Pustules appear similar to whiteheads, with pus at its tip but with a red ring, which signals an inflammation.

Severe or cystic acne

A Visible sign of severe or cystic acne is the appearance of nodules and cysts.

• Nodules are large and inflammatory lesions lodged deep within the skin.
• Cysts are pus-filled lumps beneath the skin's surface.

This type of acne carries the highest risk of scarring and is likely to cause some physical pain. It usually requires medication, which should always be prescribed by a dermatologist.

Dr Ann’Laure Demessant reminds it kindly: “Pimples should never be popped. This can have long-term effects, such as more prolonged or additional breakouts, a discolored complexion, and, potentially, acne scars. You must keep calm and trust your dermatologist to reduce your acne symptoms with topical treatment or else.” 

What causes acne? And what are the contributing factors?

Acne is commonly caused by a hormonal imbalance, where the sebaceous glands (located in hair follicles) produce too much sebum. These hormones, called androgens, also trigger higher production of skin cells, leading to clogged pores, which are a breeding ground for acne-based bacteria, pimples, and more.

By saying that, we can say that microbial dysbalance is an important culprit - and one you can act upon. By restoring your microbiome, for example. With your hormones, a combination of elements can cause the skin to a microbial dysbalance, and therefore to flare up! Let's see what you can change in your daily life to reduce breakouts:

Environment

Factors like air pollution in big cities can contribute to clogged pores. An adapted skincare routine will help you cope with your environment without drying or irritating your skin!

Stress

When you are stressed, your body releases cortisol and androgens, which results in excessive sebum production. We recommend seeking emotional support and talking to a professional if you feel anxious or stressed.

Diet

There's no solid proof that people with acne should follow a specific diet. However, eating a balanced diet featuring fresh fruit and vegetables, especially those that help reduce inflammation, is always a good idea!

A common acne myth is that chocolate causes breakouts. Dark chocolate is, in fact, filled with skin-loving antioxidants! As we are built differently genetically, chocolate may cause breakouts for some people with acne-prone skin and some not.

Another theory is that eating oily food leads to oily skin and clogged pores. Error 404: There's no data to back this up! What we do know is that diets rich in saturated fats can trigger micro-inflammation in the body's organs. In short, moderation and balance are essential for a healthy mind and body!

How to get rid of pimples?

Few imperfections can be managed with the right skincare solutions.

Start by gently cleansing your skin twice a day with micellar water or foaming cleansing gel. Follow up with skincare formulas containing active ingredients like Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, and Piroctone Olamine. If you don't notice any improvement in the coming weeks, consult your dermatologist to explore medical treatments such as retinoids, antibiotics, and isotretinoin.

If you want to know how to fade scars, treatments such as laser therapy or chemical peels can help make those marks less visible. However, a healthcare professional should always be consulted to help determine the best course of action for your skin. And don't forget to put high-SPF sunscreen on your face and neck daily—an excellent way to prevent new scars! 

How do you take care of acne-prone skin?

Some specific forms of acne can only be managed with prescription medications. However, thankfully, once blemishes have cleared up, you can prevent new imperfections by integrating expert over-the-counter dermo-cosmetic products into your daily skincare routine! With professional medical advice and adapted skincare formulas, they can be corrected for a clearer-looking complexion and long-lasting confidence. Don't forget that you are not alone in dealing with this skin condition!

Here are some helpful pointers to help manage your skin in your day-to-day life:

1. Ingredients
   Salicylic Acid (BHA) and Benzoyl Peroxide are two key skincare ingredients proven to minimize pimples, redness and clogged pores.
2. Retinol
   Retinol can help to minimize imperfections such as whiteheads and blackheads, retinoids playing an important role in keeping pores clear.
3. Birth control
   Oral contraception can help to correct hormonal imbalances. It is mandatory to consult your doctor or gynecologist, as this option isn't suitable for everyone.
4. Makeup
   Choose makeup formulas adapted to acne-prone skin, which will minimize clogged pores. Also, try to avoid wearing makeup, for example, at the gym. Sweating opens the pores, which makeup can get trapped in, leading to pimples.
5. Exfoliation
   Dermatologists recommend gentle cleansing products to avoid a sebum-rebound effect and avoid over-exfoliating, which can irritate the skin.
6. Healthy habits
   Small habits, for example, regularly changing your face towel, avoiding touching your face, and cleaning your glasses or headphones, can help prevent or minimize breakouts.
7. Consistency
   A consistent and adapted skincare routine is key to managing acne-prone skin. Cleanse, gently exfoliate (two to three times a week) and moisturize for nourished, protected and soothed skin.
   
   Remember, a skincare journey is not a sprint; it's a marathon! To start seeing results, be conscientious and consistent with your daily routine!