Finishing Touches Skin Experts Sarah and Mariella share facts and figures and dispel the myths surrounding the treatments for acne.

The term acne vulgaris (vulgaris means common), was first used by Fuchs in 1840 and has persisted to the present day. 

How does stress affect acne?

The adrenal cortex is responsible for producing vital hormones including cortisol, which helps the body respond to stress. Cortisol has a number of functions including helping to regulate metabolism by releasing glucose for energy and instructing glands within skin to produce more oil, which can lead to breakouts. 

This combination of added stress along with changes in our daily routines to both lifestyle and diet is the likely culprit for acne flare-ups.

Take care of the skin from the inside. 

When experiencing breakouts, it's important to take care of skin from the inside as well as the outside. It is good practice to drink lots of water and eat a well balanced diet every day, but a nutritional supplement will support skin from the inside even further.

Here are some common ACNE myths

Acne is just a teenage problem - FALSE
Acne is related to the balance of hormones, which is why acne is associated with puberty. However, hormonal changes and fluctuations can happen throughout life, especially in women - think pregnancy and menopause which can cause acne outbreaks.

Acne is caused by poor hygiene or unclean skin - FALSE
Acne is mostly caused by dead skin cells that get stuck in the oil that is coming from the oil gland; this causes a blockage that leads to acne. DNA and hereditary reasons also play a role in whether you're likely to be affected by acne.

Toothpaste can treat acne - FALSE
Although toothpaste has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredients, it can cause irritation to skin, so it's best to keep toothpaste for your teeth.

You should pop or squeeze spots - FALSE
Squeezing, picking or popping can cause damage to skin and increase the chance of scarring and the acne spreading and becoming worse.

Sunlight will cure my acne - FALSE
Short exposure to UV rays can have a temporary anti-inflammatory effect on the skin, but longer exposure actually has an acne-causing effect by promoting the acne related blockages in the hair follicles. UV rays are also extremely damaging and exposure is directly linked with skin cancer and premature aging.

What can help treat acne?

To support Acne Awareness month in June, we are offering 20% off selected Cell Biologique products in our acne skincare range when you use the code CBACNE*. 

Bio Active Cleanser - This refreshing citrus-based botanical cleanser eliminates surface oils and impurities often responsible for congestion, blemished and dull skin.

Salicylic Toner - This powerful astringent toner combats accumulation of keratinised skin cells that may clog pores causing comedones. Mildly exfoliating Salicylic, astringent Witch Hazel and pore penetrating Azelaic target congestion and dead skin cells. Water soluble BioSulphur regulates hyperactivity of the sebaceous glands while offering anti-bacterial and anti inflammatory benefit. 

Acne Defence Serum - Designed especially for acne, this lightweight serum works on all forms of breakout activity, reducing surface oils that lead to congestion, blackheads and inflamed lesions. It refines breakouts prone skin, minimises pore size and promotes healing for clear skin.

Bio Balance Moisturiser - Preventing future breakouts and promoting healing of existing breakouts, this unique gel based daily protection cream, is rich in vitamins A, C and E. The botanical gel offers hydration while regulating sebum production, leaving oily skin feeling hydrated without an oily shine.

SPF 50 + - All skin should be protected. This silky, lightweight cream containing aloe vera and sunflower oil, calms and nourishes the skin as well as providing the ultimate UVA protection.

Our Acne Oily Skin Cell Biologique kit is also available to stock and sell in your clinic for your clients to use at home. 

Our range is perfect for treating recurring breakouts, and stubborn, oily skin.

 What can treat acne scars?

Acne scarring results achieved with our ESR serum infused skin roller. 

We will also be offering 10% off our ESR Serum Infused Skin Roller* to assist with product absorption and can help improve the appearance of acne scarring. This product is perfect to stock and sell in your clinic to prepare your clients skin to be salon ready for their next facial treatment all while helping your clients feel better by having a healthy radiant complexion.

You can also train in Meso skin needling to improve the appearance of acne scarring. The deep skin rejuvenation treatment creates small punctures in the skin and creates a wound healing response to renew skin cells. As the skin repairs, it stimulates the production of natural collagen and elastin to give an almost immediate plumping and smoothing effect. Enquire today by emailing info@finishingtouchesgroup.com to find out more about Meso skin needling training!

*While stock lasts. Get 20% off on the following selected Cell Biologique products; Bio Active Cleanser, Salicylic Toner, Acne Defence Serum, Bio Balance Moituriser, Sun Defence SPF 50+ and our Acne Oily Skin Homecare Kit when using the code CBACNE. Get 10% off on our ESR serum infused skin roller when you use the code ESRACNE. Discount ends on 31st June 2021 at 23:59 GMT. Discount only applicable online.

Sources: NHS