Acne Care
Post-acne spots are scars left on the skin after the acne has healed, which can be red or brown in colour, sometimes raised or flat. Treatment of these spots can include various methods that can be done as part of a skin care routine. Here are some effective methods that can be used in acne spot care:
Sun Protection: Exposure to the sun can cause acne spots to become more prominent. Therefore, it is important to use sunscreen. Sunscreen protects the skin against UV rays and makes the spots less visible. Protect your skin by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
Skin Brighteners: Skin brightening products can help reduce the appearance of blemishes. Ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide (vitamin B3), alpha arbutin, kojic acid equalise skin tone and reduce the appearance of blemishes. By using such products regularly, you can lighten blemishes on the skin.
Retinoids: Products containing retinoids promote the regeneration of skin cells and help reduce blemishes on the skin surface. Retinoids also prevent the formation of new acne by preventing clogging of the pores in the skin.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): AHAs remove dead skin cells from the skin surface and even out skin colour. AHAs such as lactic acid, glycolic acid and mandelic acid can help reduce the appearance of blemishes.
Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs): BHAs remove oil and dead skin cells, unclog pores and prevent acne formation. Salicylic acid is the most commonly used BHA and can help reduce the appearance of acne blemishes.
Microdermabrasion: Microdermabrasion can help reduce the appearance of blemishes and light scars by gently exfoliating the skin surface. This procedure is usually performed by a dermatologist or skin care specialist.
Chemical Peeling: Chemical peels reduce the appearance of blemishes and scars by exfoliating the top layer of the skin. This procedure is usually performed by a dermatologist and uses a special chemical solution that is suitable for your skin.
Laser Treatments: Laser treatments can help reduce the appearance of blemishes and scars on the skin. Laser light targets dark pigmentation in the skin, reducing blemishes and evening out skin colour. You can evaluate this treatment in consultation with a dermatologist or skin care specialist.
What Causes Acne and Blemishes?
Acne and blemishes are usually associated with increased oil production in the skin and clogged pores. The main causes can be the following:
Activity of the sebaceous glands: Overactive sebaceous glands can cause excess oil production in the skin. These oils can accumulate on the skin surface, leading to clogged pores and acne formation.
Bacterial Infections: A bacterium called Propionibacterium acnes can multiply inside the pores and accumulate with oil, causing acne formation.
Hormonal Changes: Conditions such as puberty, pregnancy, menstrual cycle and hormonal medications can cause hormonal changes. These hormonal changes can contribute to the activation of the sebaceous glands and the formation of acne.
Skin Care and Cosmetic Products: Skin care products or make-up products can lead to skin clogging and acne formation. Some products known as comedogenic can clog pores and trigger acne formation.
Genetic Factors: Genetic predisposition may cause some people to be more prone to acne and blemish formation than others.
Stress: Stress can cause hormonal changes in the body, which can increase acne formation.
In summary; acne and blemishes usually occur due to increased oil production in the skin and clogged pores. Hormonal changes, genetic predisposition, skin care products, stress and skin damage can also affect these conditions.
