a skincare and wellness studio

About Acne

According to Western Medicine, the three main causes of acne are stress, heredity and hormones. The bacteria responsible for acne lesions are propionibacterium. These bacteria feed off the sebum (oil in the glands). These bacteria are anaerobic and cannot survive in the presence of oxygen. In acne-prone skin, the sebum plugs and dead cell buildup block the oxygen from reaching the bottom of the follicle. As a result, the bacteria multiply. There are four grades off acne and are identified as follows:

• Grade 1 Acne: Mostly open comedones (blackheads), some closed comedones. Few papules (a type of raised lesion that is usually characterized by red bumps) and pustules (whiteheads).
   

• Grade 2 Acne: Many more open comedones, more papules and pustules. The skin appears very bumpy. This condition is sometimes caused by acne cosmetica, acne caused or worsened by skincare and
  cosmetic products.
   

• Grade 3 Acne: Very red and inflamed with open and closed comedones, many papules and pustules.
   

• Grade 4 Acne:  Cystic acne, the worst type.  Painful-to-touch deep nodules, fluid filled cysts and scarring.  This grade is also characterized by severely inflamed closed comedones, papules and pustules.

Helpful Tips

Are you an acne sufferer? Though a difficult and embarrassing condition, here are some helpful tips to correct or even prevent acne from its very inflammatory phases.

• Eliminate all comedogenic products. These are products with D&C red dyes, fatty acids and fatty materials, products with emollients, lanolin, mineral oil, fragrances and SD alcohol. Mineral oil adds to the skin's normal sebum production, causing comedones to form and ultimately leading to acne formation. Lanolin is derived from sheep's wool and increases the skin's sensitivity. Artificial fragrances cause photosensitivity and may alter the skin's natural pigmentation. SD alcohol strips the skin of its natural moisture factor and causes dehydration.
   

• Control Oil. It is recommended to use a moisturizer that contains micro sponges and salicylic acid. This will absorb excess oils, reduce a shiny complexion and provide bacteria protection.
   

• Avoid granular exfoliants which scratch the skin's surface and in turn inflame acne lesions. Use a follicular chemical exfoliant with lactic acid and salicylic acid to remove and prevent comedones. A medicated overnight treatment is recommended. For best results, a product that sloughs off dead skin cells, fights bacteria and regulates sebum production will provide the most benefits and prevent future breakouts.
   

• Do not irritate the skin. Avoid over cleansing, as this may strip the skin and cause irritation. Overuse of masques and peeling agents may result in further inflammation and more acne flares. Cleanse no more than twice a day with a gel-based, naturally foaming cleanser with balm mint and camphor that soothes irritation and helps promote healing. Use a gel-based masque that has healing vitamins which calm and promote skin repair. Masques are recommended 2-3 times per week.
   

• Avoid environmental aggravators. Avoid exposure to greasy environments such as kitchens in fast food restaurants. Avoid ingestion of processed foods and fried foods. Avoid excess sun exposure. The heat inflames the skin and stimulates sebum production, thus worsening the already affected areas.
   

• Reduce stress, exercise regularly, increase water intake. The skin is the largest organ in the body and is responsible for excreting toxins. An increased water intake will facilitate detoxification.

Visit Us Today

Visit Unlimited Potential, LLC A Wellness SkinCare Studio for A Powerful Acne Treatment. Your assessment and treatment will be provided by a Registered Nurse with a license in Aesthetics. Learn about a great homecare regimen with acne-fighting ingredients that will promote optimum skin health.

"I have acne mostly brought on by hormonal changes.  My dermatologist recommended a very drying and caustic medicine that not only gave my sensitive skin a chemical burn, but made my condition worse.  Renee's excellent care and guidance has had a dramatic effect on my acne condition, and I look and feel better than I have in years.  The daily routine she recommended is easy to use and treats my skin with the delicacy it deserves.  She's worth every penny."  - Marjorie Clark, Hamden, CT