June is National Acne Awareness Month. Acne affects all ethnic groups and ages, but it is most common in teens and young adults. An estimated 85% of people between ages 11 and 24 experience acne outbreaks at some point.
Acne results from
- excessive production of skin oil
- “sticky skin cells” that block pores and trap the skin oil leading to white heads and black heads (comedones), and
- overabundance of bacteria on the skin resulting in pimples and cysts.
LIFESTYLE RECOMMENDATIONS
Acne is an inflammatory condition, so follow the guidelines for an anti-inflammatory and low-glycemic diet, avoiding process flour and sugar. Concentrate on deeply colored vegetables and occasional fruits. Meats should be hormone-free. We strongly recommend switching from cow’s milk to almond milk, which is higher in calcium, lower in sugar, and has no xeno-estrogens. (Almond Breeze tastes better than Silk almond milk.)
Cleanse with the Clarisonic Cleansing System twice a day. There is no technologically superior brush available on the market with more scientific studies showing its effectiveness in cleaning out the pores in acneic skin.
Sports equipment, i.e. helmets that come into frequent contact with the face should be cleaned with antibacterial soap or wiped frequently with rubbing alcohol.
Hair products and hair oils can extend or transfer onto the forehead, jaw line, neck or back, worsening acne in these areas. Hair products should be oil-free. It is important to position your hair off the face and back prior to sleep; and pillow cases should be washed several times per week.
Cosmetics and skin-care products should be oil-free, non-comedogenic, and/or non-acneic.*
Don’t pick or squeeze blackheads or pimples. You are far more likely to get a scar.
PRODUCTS AND PROCEDURES TO TREAT ACNE*
Whiteheads & Blackheads – We have a selection of excellent medical grade topical retinoids and products containing salicylic acid, which are the gold standard for comedonal acne. Our aesthetician performs medicated acne facials using medical grade products which are an excellent way to jump start the process.
Pimples & Cysts – We offer very effective medical grade products and medicated acne peels specifically for pimples. In addition, our doctors perform laser procedures designed for and proven to be effective for the treatment of pimples and cysts. Dr. Stefanie Christian and Dr. Jeff Christian also prescribe medications when necessary.
Summer Teen Specials: Through Labor Day, get 15% off Aesthetician Services and/or Receive 10% off your purchase of 3 or more products