Acne
What is acne?
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It often results in the formation of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, or cysts, primarily on the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders.
What Causes Acne?
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Excess oil production
Oil glands in the skin (sebaceous glands) produce an oily substance called sebum, which can combine with dead skin cells and block hair follicles, leading to acne.
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Bacteria
The bacterium Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is naturally present on the skin, but when trapped in blocked follicles, it can multiply rapidly and cause inflammation.
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Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and certain medical conditions, can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil, leading to acne flare-ups.
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Genetics
Acne can run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition to the condition.
Recommended Products for Acne
Recommended Spa Treatments
Best skincare ingredients for acne
Several skincare ingredients have been shown to be effective in treating acne. Here are some of the best ones
Benzoyl Peroxide
It kills acne-causing bacteria, reduces inflammation, and helps unclog pores by removing excess oil and dead skin cells.
Salicylic Acid
This beta hydroxy acid (BHA) exfoliates the skin, penetrating deep into pores to remove oil and dead skin cells. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Retinoids (Retinol, Retin-A, Tretinoin)
These vitamin A derivatives help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and promote cell turnover, preventing new acne lesions from forming.
Azelaic Acid
It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce acne lesions and fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Glycolic Acid
An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates the skin, promoting cell turnover and helping to unclog pores.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
It has anti-inflammatory properties and helps regulate sebum production, reducing acne lesions and redness.
Sulfur
This ingredient helps unclog pores, reduce oiliness, and has antimicrobial properties, making it effective in treating acne.
Tea Tree Oil
It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in reducing acne lesions and preventing new ones from forming
Zinc
Zinc has anti-inflammatory properties and regulates oil production, making it beneficial for acne-prone skin
Hyaluronic Acid
While not directly treating acne, hyaluronic acid hydrates the skin without clogging pores, helping to balance the effects of drying acne treatments.