Skin Type
Acne Awareness, Who, What, Why and What Else!
Skin Type By Education Team
June 21, 2023 1:26 pm
June is Acne Awareness Month and let’s face it… zit happens! We have all been afflicted with a pimple or two (or what feels like a trazillion) in our lifetime. In honor of acne awareness month, let’s examine the who, what, and why of acne to better understand treatment opportunities.
Who gets acne?
Acne is a highly prevalent skin condition that afflicts people worldwide. While it is challenging to provide an exact number of individuals affected by acne around the world, it is estimated that acne affects a significant portion of the global population, particularly adolescents and young adults. Let’s examine some of the key points regarding the prevalence of acne:
Given the widespread occurrence of acne and its potential impact on individuals’ lives, it is crucial to prioritize effective management, seek appropriate professional guidance, and adopt healthy skincare practices to minimize its impact and promote overall well-being.
What causes acne?
Acne is a multifactorial skin condition influenced by various factors. Here are some of the primary causes of acne:
It is worth noting that the causes and triggers of acne can vary from person to person, and it may be a combination of several factors. Consulting with a Lira Clinical skincare professional can help identify the specific causes of your acne and guide you toward an appropriate treatment plan.
What are the different types of acne?
While most of us are familiar with the term “acne,” it’s important to recognize that there are various types of acne, each with its own distinct characteristics and treatment approaches. Let’s explore three different types of acne commonly seen by esthetic practitioners, shedding light on their causes, symptoms, and potential remedies.
Comedonal acne, also known as non-inflammatory acne, primarily manifests as blackheads and whiteheads. It occurs when hair follicles become clogged with dead skin cells, oil (sebum), and bacteria. Blackheads appear as dark bumps on the surface of the skin, while whiteheads are closed, flesh-colored bumps. To address comedonal acne, gentle exfoliation and topical treatments containing beta hydroxy acids, alpha hydroxy acids and/or retinoids can be effective.
(Lira Clinical’s PRO Anti-aging Pads, ICE Clear Stick, and PRO Retinal-Plus Treatment’s effective formulations to combat comedonal acne)
Inflammatory acne is characterized by redness, swelling, and the formation of papules, pustules, or nodules. This type of acne occurs when bacteria invade blocked hair follicles, leading to a skin immune system response. Papules are small, tender red bumps, while pustules are filled with pus. Nodules are large, painful, solid lumps beneath the surface of the skin. Treatments for inflammatory acne may include topical probiotics, benzoyl peroxide, anti-inflammatory agents, or in some extreme cases, prescription medications like oral antibiotics or isotretinoin.
(Lira Clinical’s ICE Clarifying Treatment, BIO Hydra Infusion, and MYSTIQ Cryo Masque are fantastic products to address the cause and consequences of Inflammatory Acne).
Acne mechanica is a form of acne triggered by friction, pressure, or heat against the skin. It commonly affects athletes, students wearing backpacks, or individuals wearing tight-fitting clothing (or masks in a pandemic!). The constant rubbing and occlusion of the skin can lead to the development of small, red bumps or pustules. Prevention and correction involve ensuring the skin is properly hydrated, not over-cleansed, and especially important, balanced! If your profession or hobbies are contributing to acne mechanica anywhere on your body, consider using an occlusive skin barrier to protect the skin. (HEALTH Recovery Balm is “the bomb” for combatting acne mechanica).
Understanding the different types of acne empowers professionals to identify a specific condition and select appropriate treatment paths. While over-the-counter remedies can be helpful temporarily, it is important to consult a skincare professional for more persistent cases ensuring longer lasting skin clarity. Remember, acne treatments can take time to show results, so patience and consistency are key. By demystifying the diverse types of acne and tailoring treatments accordingly, we can work towards achieving clearer, brighter, more beautiful skin.
Consequences of Acne:
Acne can give rise to various skin co-issues, both during active breakouts and because of long-term acne or scarring. Some common skin issues associated with acne include:
It’s important to note that addressing these skin issues often requires professional intervention. Lira Clinical skincare professionals can provide customized treatments such as advanced product formulations and SMART PEELS™ to combat acne breakouts and minimize the appearance of acne-related skin consequences.