This week we take a deep dive into 'What's Acne?' - from the slightest blemish to a full face of inflamed skin. So, what is acne? Here’s what it says in the dictionary:
“The occurrence of inflamed or infected sebaceous glands in the skin; in particular, a condition characterized by red pimples on the face, prevalent chiefly among teenagers or even hormonal acne, cystic acne, adult acne.”
Any way you look at, I think we can all agree that experiencing acne is not a lot of fun. Whether you are a teenager or perhaps experiencing acne as an adult, it makes us self-conscious about our appearance and wondering what in the world we can do to fix it. Certainly, we want it to go away - right away. But it also makes us wonder what we can do to make sure that it’s going to go away and ‘stay away for good!’ I’m sure almost everyone reading this today has had similar thoughts at one time in their lives or another.
And, it can be so confusing. The remedies on the store shelf may work for some. But what to use? How to choose? The dermatologist may tend toward a medical solution - writing a prescription for a drug or perhaps a topical to deal with the symptoms – but without knowing or addressing the root cause. This can help with your immediate appearance, but how to prevent it’s coming back.
The aesthetician is likely to take a different approach. Looking at acne from the perspective of your overall health, and treating it in a more holistic way. Advising some topical treatments, but also trying to better understand lifestyle and work towards its not coming back.
No matter where you go for help, it’s so very hard to find the best solution. My experience over the years has taught me that no matter the path you choose, the most important element in treating acne nearly always involves ‘taking down the inflammation.’ Without the inflammation the skin is on its way to heal and to be free of toxins. Allowing our marvelous bodies to do the work it can do so well. So, whatever your experience and whatever treatments you have tried in the past, let's read on together and learn more about this sensitive subject.
With Gratitude,
Karen Ballou
Founder & CEO
IMMUNOCOLOGIE Skincare