Let us preface this article by saying that having acne is *completely* normal. It's a natural occurrence that happens to everybody, and you shouldn't feel bad when you see a new pimple sprout on your face. Getting zits doesn't diminish your capabilities as a person. However, if you do want to get rid of your breakouts, that's fine, too! Whatever you do to your body is totally up to you.
ADIOS, ACNE!
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Below, we consulted with licensed dermatologist Dr. Kaycee Reyes of Luminisce Clinic to ask about the types of acne you need to take note of and all the treatments you can look into. Keep on reading to learn more:
What are the different types of acne? What causes them to occur?
Dr. Kaycee: The main thing you need to know is that acne can be non-inflammatory or inflammatory. The former are comedones or small bumps caused by clogged pores caused by the buildup of excess sebum and dead skin cells. Comedones can be open (blackheads) or closed (whiteheads).
As for the latter, it is described as red, swollen, and deep bumps. Aside from oil and dead skin cells, inflammatory acne is also caused by normal bacteria that proliferated because of too much inflammation in the skin. It manifests in the form of papules or pimples, pustules (pus-filled pimples), nodules (painful, inflamed, and deep), and cysts (painful, large, and deep with pus and blood).
Acne is caused by several factors such as genetics, medications, stress, hormonal imbalance, or changes in lifestyle.
What acne treatments do you recommend using for each type?
Dr. Kaycee: Because acne has different types and causes, its treatment also varies. Usually, over-the-counter (OTC) treatments work for non-inflammatory acne such as benzoyl peroxide (antibacterial) and salicylic acid (exfoliating). For the inflammatory kind, oral medications such as tetracycline or doxycycline (antibacterial), isotretinoin (decreases oil production), and oral contraceptives and low-dose diuretics (for hormonal acne) can be prescribed. Topical treatments may also be recommended, such as retinoid adapalene and tretinoin to reduce inflammation.
But while these ingredients are widely available, it's important to always consult with a professional so they can prescribe a treatment that is tailor-fit to your skin's needs. No matter one's age, a dermatologist should always be your first line of defense and not the last when it comes to changes in your complexion.
What are some of the things we can do or use to prevent breakouts?
Dr. Kaycee: The best way is to assess your lifestyle first. Make the necessary changes to lessen inflammation and control the hormonal causes of acne. If you can, try to lessen your intake of dairy products and high glycemic food. Probiotics can also do wonders for healing your gut and strengthening your immune system. Remember, a good gut flora lessens the chances of an acne flare-up.
You may also add products with mild Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid in your product rotation to speed up the cell turnover of your complexion. This will give you a brighter, more even skin tone.
Remember, acne is not a one-size-fits-all kind of thing. The medication and treatments are usually customized for the patient, depending on the severity of his or her condition. No matter how simple or complex your skincare routine is, the important rule to follow is to be consistent according to the prescribed treatment by the dermatologist.
ADIOS, ACNE!
- Project Clear Skin: The Most Effective Ways To Get Rid Of Acne Scars
- Project Clear Skin: How To Get Rid Of Acne On Your Cheeks
What professional acne treatments should we try to get rid of pimples?
Dr. Kaycee: Sometimes, your normal anti-acne skincare routine isn't going to cut it. This is where professional treatments come in. The most common ones you can get are chemical peels, photodynamic light, lasers, and facials.
Since we're still in quarantine, though, clinics have made it possible to score a glowing complexion on your own. Clinics now offer home treatments that can target your skin concerns such as acne, dark spots, and dryness. These can all be safely done on your own while being guided through an online instruction session with a dermatologist.
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Luminisce Coquille Peel
This uses AHAs derived from natural fruit and food extracts to help exfoliate and hydrate the skin by shedding rough skin and restoring the skin’s moisture levels.
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Luminisce Citrine Peel
This contains natural extracts from argan, rice, and barley that can help even out the skin tone from acne marks and scars. It also has small doses of AHAs and BHAs combined.
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Luminisce Acne-Drying System
This includes medical-grade peels—Coquille Peel and Azelaic Acid (AZA) Peel—that dries out pimples as it renews the skin. It also comes with a steamer, a pimple extractor, and an acne-fighting skincare regimen.
Book your appointment before visiting Luminisce Clinic at the following locations: Podium, Molito Alabang, and Mercury Drug Bldg, 4th Avenue BGC. You can purchase their at-home kits at luminisce.com.
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