ACNE-PRONE SKINCARE PRODUCTS

Aside from being one of the most well known acne fighting ingredients of all time, salicylic acid can also be defined as a type of beta hydroxy acid (BHA).

All skin types can benefit from regular exfoliation to stimulate cellular turnover, and it’s particularly important for those with acne-prone skin and pimples. But what is the best way to exfoliate for pimple-free skin? Using a physical exfoliant isn’t always the best course of action for those prone to skin congestion.

The words ‘acne’ and ‘pimples’ are sometimes used interchangeably, but in reality these terms have very different meanings. One of these terms refers to a type of blemish whereas the other refers to an ongoing skin condition with a host of different symptoms, causes and management options.

While the occurrence of acne breakouts is caused in large part to genetics – the frequency and standard of forehead acne, pimples on chin and acne on cheeks also relates to behavioural and external stressors.

Teenage acne can be caused by hormonal changes that occur at puberty, causing skin to become much oilier. With the right treatments and guidance, acne can be addressed so don’t hesitate to seek advice from your GP or a dermatologist.

As is with all skincare regimes, what products help clear acne-prone concerns will depend on your unique skin type. Combination, oily, sensitive and even dry skin types can all experience breakouts and blemishes – though it tends to occur most frequently in oily skin types.

Our skin produces sebum, a natural oil found within the skin cells, which plays a vital role in maintaining the skin’s health, balance and moisture. Learning about sebum’s role within the skin cell structure can help us understand what healthy oil levels are and when excess sebum production may be occurring.

We talk a lot about oily and acne-prone skin, and for good reason – it’s an incredibly common skin concern for adolescents and for adults. However, it can be easy to forget that ‘acne’ is an umbrella term that encompasses many distinct types of blemishes.

An effective acne solution begins with balancing the skin’s microbiome. This refers to the billions of micro-organisms, including bacteria, that live on the skin.

You’ve had a particularly angry pimple and are delighted when it finally disappears. However, that delight soon turns to dismay when you’re left with a dark or red acne mark that’s almost as annoying as the pimple itself.

Sailed through your teens with clear skin, only to face breakouts in your 20s, 30s or beyond? Welcome to the frustrating world of adult acne. Occurring in up to 15% of women1 (and a smaller percentage of men), post-adolescent acne is a not-uncommon problem that can dent the self-esteem and also potentially scar the skin.

Skin prone to acne blemishes is often viewed as primarily a teenage issue, but the truth is that hormonal acne can develop at a range of ages and life stages. The delicate balance of hormones in our bodies can be disrupted by many different triggers, including puberty, pregnancy and menopause.

You’ve been patiently waiting for a pimple to disappear, only to be left with a dark spot in its place. Sound familiar? We’re not surprised. Frustrating and stubborn, post-acne hyperpigmentation is a common form of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)

Retinol discussions tend to focus on the anti-ageing properties of this vitamin A derivative, but topical retinoids are actually equally as beneficial for blemish-prone skin as they are for visibly reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Retinol boosts cell turnover which means it helps clear the pores.