All of us have experienced acne or are still suffering from it. For most people this problem resolves quickly, but for some, it is a problem that continues well into adult life with recurrent outbreaks of redness, blackheads, and pimples that can lead to permanent scarring.
What Is Acne?
Acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is the most common skincare condition. It occurs when your hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. It is characterized by comedones, papules, nodules, pimples, and scars.
The most common areas for acne are:
- Face
- Neck
- Chest
- Back
- Shoulders
Acne can also be emotionally scarring. We understand what our patients are going through, so let us help you at our Acne Clinic.
Acne Myths
I have acne because I have poor hygiene.
In some cases, acne flare-ups cannot be traced to dirt or poor hygiene. In fact, washing too frequently or scrubbing too vigorously can irritate skin and make acne worse.
People say I have a poor diet that’s why I have breakouts!
There is no strong correlation between acne and diet. There is no proven connection between chocolate, pizza, potato chips, french fries, cheeseburgers, etc., and acne outbreaks.
There’s a popular belief that dairy products cause acne. While cow’s milk may* increase the risk of developing acne, no studies or evidence have found that products made from milk, such as yogurt or cheese, lead to more breakouts.
* Recent research has indicated a link between acne and non-organic dairy products.
However, diets high in sugar can worsen acne. When your blood sugar spikes, it causes inflammation throughout your body. These spikes also cause your body to make more sebum, an oily substance in your skin. Both inflammation and excess sebum can lead to acne.
Stress causes acne
There’s no strong support of stress causing acne to appear.
Popping my blemishes help ease the condition
Absolutely a no-no. Squeezing blemishes causes the infected material deeper into the skin, resulting in more inflammation and possible scarring.
What Treatments Are Available?
Effective acne treatment includes skin care and medication
Keeping your skin clear requires more than a diet change!
It may be a matter of managing a medical condition such as a hormonal issue. There are a number of medications and skin care products that can help. Using acne friendly skin care and acne medication helps to prevent new breakouts.
At our clinic in Richmond, there are several scientifically-proven effective acne treatments. Our doctor will start by assessing you for medically treatable causes of acne.
There are a multitude of new treatments available to you thanks to the recent advances in aesthetic medicine. These treatments include:
- Laser
- Radiofrequency technologies
- Broadband Light (BBL)
- Medical acne facials together with Blue Light treatments
- Chemical Peels
- Micro-dermabrasion
At Medical Spa Club, we have skin care products and therapies specifically designed for acne-prone skin. Come to our clinic and ask about our best-selling acne kit loved by our patients! If skincare products and medications aren’t sufficient to treat your acne condition, please book a consultation with us to establish your unique treatment plan.
