Basic rules for acne

Acne is an inflammatory skin disease, specifically of the sebaceous gland. Due to excessive hyperproduction of skin sebum, the gland becomes clogged, leading to an inflammatory process.

The main cause of acne is considered to be an increase in hormones (thyroid or female), but this is not the only reason. Other factors include improper home care or its complete absence, excessive consumption of sweets, flour-based foods, spicy and fatty dishes, dairy products, gastrointestinal diseases, and nervous exhaustion.

We want to emphasize that acne treatment is prescribed directly by a doctor and can be adjusted during the treatment process.

After a thorough medical history assessment and testing, external treatment can begin.

The first step in home care is always cleansing. Proper cleansing of the skin from excess sebum, impurities, and cosmetics is a key stage for better absorption of prescribed active ingredients.

You should wash your face twice a day with warm water. Cleansing products should not contain alcohols or oils, as they may worsen the skin condition.

If you use foundation, you should cleanse your face twice, as one wash is often not enough. We also note that during the treatment period, it is advisable to completely avoid foundation or powders, or use them only when necessary rather than daily.

After washing, dry your skin with disposable dry towels.

When treating acne, cosmetic products should contain active ingredients aimed at thorough cleansing, such as benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, mandelic acid, and salicylic acid. Depending on the severity of acne, their concentration will vary or be additionally introduced with creams.

Patients who are just beginning treatment should understand that when acids are introduced, the skin may initially trigger new inflammations. This is a normal skin reaction, as acids “bring up” inflammatory elements that are located deep within the skin.

Under no circumstances should scrubs be used for acne, as they can damage already sensitive skin and may spread bacteria across the face due to microtrauma.

Today, there is a wide selection of creams with active ingredients aimed at treating acne. However, depending on the stage of acne, the active ingredients will vary.

A moisturizing cream must be included in home care, containing substances that reduce sebum production, relieve inflammation, and hydrate the skin.

It is also advisable to have masks for problematic skin and use them 2-3 times a week. The mask should be left on for no more than 15-20 minutes to avoid triggering an allergic reaction.

Additionally, during acne treatment, SPF protection should always be used, as inflammatory processes on the skin are very sensitive and hyperpigmentation may develop under sun exposure.

All medical products should be purchased at a pharmacy according to the dermatologist’s recommendation.

The specialists at I.D.Clinic warn that self-medication can be harmful and wish you healthy and radiant facial skin.