Best Acne Treatments and Tips Suggested by Dermatologists
Acne, a skin condition that affects countless individuals worldwide, is undoubtedly a source of discomfort and self-consciousness. But fear not! With the right knowledge, treatments, and experts by your side, managing acne is a cakewalk.
In this comprehensive guide on acne treatments and tips, where we bring you expert advice straight from our aestheticians at Rose + Honey in San Deigo, we also delve into various dermatologist-recommended treatments such as Microdermabrasion, Dermaplaning, HydroFacial, Chemical Peel, Nano-Needling, and more.
Whether you're a teenager grappling with hormonal acne or an adult facing occasional breakouts, our guide is here to help you understand and combat acne effectively.
Let's get started!
The Basics of Acne Treatment
Before we jump into the treatments, let's understand what acne is. Acne is a product of clogged hair follicles due to oil and dead skin cells. It typically appears on your face, especially on the forehead. For some, it appears on the chest, upper back, and shoulders, too.
Acne can be inflammatory or non-inflammatory and varies from blackheads and whiteheads to the worst forms, like cysts and nodules. Hormonal changes, stress, diet, and certain medications are known triggers, but the exact cause can vary from person to person.
The Myths Around Acne
There are tonnes of myths about acne that can misguide and prevent effective treatment. Let's bust a couple:
● Myth #1: "Only teenagers get acne." Truth: Nope; acne can affect anyone at any age, including adults in their 30s and 40s. Even those who are in their 60s can get acne.
● Myth #2: "Popping pimples is the best way to get rid of them." Popping pimples is a sure-shot way for scarring and infection. It is best to treat them with appropriate skincare products.
Let's Talk Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive treatment technique that can dramatically renew one's overall skin tone and texture. It works by using a special hand-held applicator topped with an abrasive yet gentle surface to sand away the thick outer layer of your skin, thereby rejuvenating it.
It's particularly beneficial for acne as it helps unclog pores and drives away dead skin cells. This can prevent existing acne from worsening and reduce the likelihood of future breakouts.
Dermatologists' Insights
Dermatologists often suggest this treatment for patients with non-inflamed acne, as it's gentle on the skin. We also recommend avoiding this procedure if you have active rosacea or acne breakouts, as it might aggravate these conditions.
HydroFacial, the New Kid on the Block
HydroFacial is a newer, much-talked-about skincare treatment in San Diego that combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration, and antioxidant protection simultaneously; this non-invasive, non-surgical procedure delivers results with little to no downtime.
The main advantage of HydroFacial lies in its ability to thoroughly cleanse and hydrate the skin, addressing various skin issues, including acne, dryness, and signs of aging.
What do Dermatologists Say About HydroFacial?
Dermatologists recommend HydroFacial for patients looking for a gentle yet effective treatment for acne and other skin concerns. Likewise, our aestheticians strongly advise against using HydroFacial if you have an active rash, sunburn, or rosacea flare-up.
It's Time for Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are a form of exfoliation that uses different types of chemical solutions to remove the top layers of dead skin. By doing so, they reveal the newer, more youthful skin underneath.
Dermatologists’ Take
Dermatologists typically recommend lighter peels for sensitive skin and stronger peels for more severe acne or scarring. It's important to follow post-peel care instructions, like avoiding exposure to sun and using gentle skincare products.
Ever Heard of Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is a manual exfoliation cosmetic procedure that removes dead skin cells and peach fuzz (those little baby hairs on your face) using a surgical scalpel.
In terms of acne treatment, Dermaplaning can be particularly beneficial as it prevents dead skin cell build-up, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Besides, the removal of fine hairs (which can trap dirt and oil) enhances the skin's clarity and reduces the chances of acne.
We recommend dermaplaning for individuals with dry or rough skin texture; it is also beneficial for those with mild acne scarring.
Let's Talk Nano-Needling, Too
Do not let the word 'needling' scare you. Nano-needling is a less invasive alternative to microneedling, involving the use of superfine needles to create microchannels on the skin's surface. These channels allow for increased absorption of active skincare ingredients, enhancing their effectiveness.
For those with acne, nano-needling can be a boon. It's effective in reducing the appearance of acne scars and hyperpigmentation.
Rose + Honey aestheticians often suggest nano-needling for patients aiming to reduce the appearance of scars and improve skin texture without the downtime of more aggressive treatments.
A Few Dermatologist-Approved Acne Tips
Besides the aforesaid treatments, we also stress the necessity of a consistent skincare routine tailored to acne-prone skin. Some of them are using a gentle cleanser, avoiding harsh scrubs, and applying non-comedogenic (skincare products specifically formulated not to block pores) moisturizers and sunscreens.
It's also wise to acknowledge that your skin is unique, and consulting with a dermatologist is essential to developing a personalized treatment plan.
Take Action
We encourage you to take the first step in your acne treatment journey. Schedule a consultation with one of our expert aestheticians, educate yourself about your skin, and be proactive in your skincare routine. Let's say 'hi!' to your acne-free skin, together.
