Acne is a well-known skin condition that affects up to 80% of teenagers and an increasing number of adults, including 25% of women between the ages of 20 and 40. Unlike juvenile acne, adult acne can persist and requires a specific approach for effective treatment.
What is acne?
Acne is a skin condition that primarily develops due to a disorder of the sebaceous glands. This disruption leads to clogged pores, particularly around hair follicles. During adolescence, acne often appears on the face, neck, and back. In adulthood, it tends to be more localized on the inner part of the face, especially along the jawline, around the mouth, and on the chin. Acne is frequently caused by an overproduction of sebum, making the skin oily. However, adult acne can also occur on dry skin due to hyperkeratinization, an excessive buildup of dead cells that thickens the skin’s outer layer, often caused by low sebum secretion. Symptoms worsen when normally harmless bacteria, naturally present in the epidermis, become trapped in a comedone, causing inflammation.
Risk factors
Adult acne is often triggered by hormonal imbalances and can be influenced by several factors:
- Heredity
- Stress
- Pollution
- Smoking
- Certain medications
- Oily or comedogenic cosmetic products
- Diet
- Pregnancy
- Menstruation and contraceptive pills
- Weightlifting and the use of dietary supplements
Hygiene tips and basic care
While acne is not caused by poor hygiene, it’s essential to follow some guidelines for acne-prone skin:
- Gently cleanse the skin regularly with a dermatological bar, milk, or a non-irritating cleansing gel.
- Moisturize the skin, even if it’s oily, with a non-comedogenic, oil-free product.
- Exfoliate with suitable products, such as those containing salicylic or glycolic acid.
- Avoid sun exposure and excessive heat.
- Don’t touch pimples or pick at your face.
- Regularly clean pillowcases and sheets to reduce bacterial contact.
- Choose makeup that is suitable for your skin, free of oils, and tested to prevent acne.
Recommended treatments and products
- Neutra-Acne Peel: This anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and exfoliating treatment helps balance the epidermis, tighten dilated pores, and improve skin texture. It fights pimples, dissolves comedones, unclogs microcysts and blackheads, and reduces mild to moderate scars.
- Vivier Pharma Product Kit: A two-step system that visibly reduces whiteheads and blackheads for a clearer and more even complexion. The Medicated Cleanser and Acne Treatment Lotion should be used twice daily, morning and evening, and can be applied to the face, décolleté, and back.
- Medicart Soothing Balm: Ideal for preventing ingrown hairs and relieving itching with its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can also serve as a light moisturizer for oily or acne-prone skin or as an aftershave.
For healthy skin and effective acne treatment, it’s crucial to adopt a proper skincare routine and choose the right products. Don’t hesitate to consult a specialist to personalize your approach based on your specific needs.