Complete Guide to acne: causes, treatments, myths and realities

 

Understand what acne is so that you can treat and manage it more effectively.

Acne is one of the most common problems during dermatological consultations. And, contrary to what many people think, this problem doesn't just affect teenagers. Adults of all ages can also suffer from these unsightly marks that appear on their faces. From a scientific point of view, acne pimples and blackheads are localised infections that result from an inflammation of the sebaceous glands and pilosebaceous follicles.

The most common causes of acne in adults are hormonal changes, an inappropriate high-fat diet and the incorrect use of creams or cosmetics. In some cases, there is also a genetic predisposition.

The anti-acne routine

In some cases, dermatological acne treatment involving the prescription of medication is necessary. But simply changing the way you care for your skin on a daily basis can produce some very satisfying results. Below are four easy-to-use, day-to-day acne care routines for more beautiful, healthier, acne-free skin.

1. Clean up

Effective prevention starts with proper skin hygiene. Here, the ideal is to use a soap or cleansing product that is indicated for the treatment of acne or that regulates the production of sebum. Opt for formulas that contain salicylic acid, a substance that cleanses your skin's pores deep down. It is important to remember that excessive cleansing is not recommended as it can cause the well-known "boomerang effect": your body responds to the lack of natural hydration by increasing the production of subcutaneous sebum. So avoid washing your face more than three times a day.

2. Tone up

You should then apply a special toner for oily skin that helps to tighten the pores and remove impurities in order to regulate sebum production and thus prevent the appearance of acne. This product is essential to reduce the inflammation caused by pimples and blackheads.

3. Moisturise

The myth that oily skin does not need to be moisturised is completely false. Just choose your moisturiser carefully. For people with oily skin, Natura Chronos mattifying day time face cream may be the solution. Recommended for oily skin, it has a silky texture that is quickly absorbed and has a mattifying effect.

4. Protect

Last but not least, never forget to apply sun protection to your face! This should become part of your daily routine, even when the weather is overcast, because UVB rays continue to contribute to the premature ageing of your skin. The minimum protection factor should never be less than 30, but as the skin on your face is more delicate, we recommend a high protection filter (SPF 50).

Myths and realities about treating acne

Acne is hereditary.

✔ TRUE
This genetic factor is very important and can have a strong influence.

Acne is contagious.

✖ FALSE
Acne is not contagious and its causes vary from person to person.

Acne increases in the premenstrual period.

± it depends
It does for some people, but not for everyone. However, in general, in patients with this tendency, hormonal factors play a role.

Acne can occur at any age, not just during adolescence.

± it depends
Acne occurs at ages when the sebaceous glands are most active, which can be the case up to the age of 40. However, other types of acne can develop at other ages.

Stress has no impact on acne.

✖ FALSE
Stress alters the hormonal stimulation of the sebaceous glands, which can make acne worse.

Eating high-fat foods makes acne worse

✔ TRUE
These foods can affect the production of sebaceous glands and make the situation worse.

Warm weather encourages pimples.

✔ TRUE
The hotter the weather, the oilier the skin.

Blackheads are caused by pollution.

✖ FALSE
Blackheads are caused by the oxidation of fatty acids synthesised by the sebaceous glands and not by air quality.

It is important to use products that are suitable for acne-prone skin for your everyday cleansing.

✔ TRUE
Each skin type requires a particular type of care. In general, you should cleanse the skin with a neutral soap, tone it with an astringent lotion, and finish your routine with a moisturiser. This combination helps to reduce sebum production.

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