Understanding Acne
Series Part 2: Understanding Acne & My Approach to Clear Skin
Because acne is one of the most common concerns I see in my treatment room, I wanted to share some guidance on what it is, what factors contribute to it, and my approach to treating it. As a certified acne and sensitive skin specialist, I focus on both skincare and the lifestyle factors that influence skin health. Many clients come in with sensitive or sensitized skin barriers due to the active ingredients they’re using at home, often in an attempt to combat acne.
My approach aims to balance and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, making it resilient and ready for treatment.
My Approach: A Personalized Treatment
After almost two years of treating various skin types, Fitzpatricks, and acne types, I’ve developed a personalized approach that considers both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Intrinsic factors include genetics, hormones, and overall health, while extrinsic factors involve lifestyle choices like diet and environmental exposure. Working with trusted partners like Face Reality, GlyMed Plus, and Hale & Hush, has allowed me to create treatment plans based on acne-safe ingredients and formulations.
Beyond Skincare
Acne treatment goes beyond what we apply to the skin—it’s also about what we put into our bodies and how we live our lives. By discussing these external factors with clients, I help them make more informed choices for clearer skin.
Acne-Safe Ingredients
I prioritize ingredients and formulations that are gentle yet effective. Some acne-safe ingredients I rely on include:
Salicylic Acid: A Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) used to exfoliate, reduce excess oil, and treat acne- specifically those with blackheads and whiteheads.
Mandelic Acid: A gentle, yet highly effective Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) used to exfoliate, reduce inflammation, pigmentation, improve texture, & much more. Safe for sensitive skin.
Vitamin B3 or Niacinamide: Calms, strengthens, and evens out skin tone. It’s known to improve post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
LHA and PHAs: Lipid-Hydroxy Acid, a derivative of salicylic acid, and Polyhydroxy Acid are known for their exfoliating and hydrating benefits. Less irritating than other AHAs.
Vitamin A and Vitamin A Alternatives: Powerful skin rejuvenators, successful at treating acne, diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, tyrosinase inhibitors, and much more.
Treatments I Use for Acne
Each client’s treatment plan is customized, but some go-to options for acne include:
Deep-Cleansing Facials: These treatments remove impurities, excess oil, and include targeted extractions. I love adding peel alternatives for returning clients when I know their skin is ready to take it a step up.
Acne Peels: Professional peels can reduce acne, sebum production, and prevent future breakouts while improving skin tone and texture. Peels are customized based on your skin and acne type as well as the severity of your acne. I offer both entry-level peels and more advanced options.
LED Light Therapy: Blue light targets acne-causing bacteria and helps to calm inflammation. Red light targets pigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles, and reduces the appearance of scarring.
Hydrojelly Masks: These masks soothe and hydrate, restoring moisture balance to help prevent over-drying. I’m always protecting the skin barrier.
Cold Therapy: Reduces inflammation, calms, and soothes the skin, especially after extractions. I love cold therapy over my favorite gel mask or Korean sheet mask!
Acne Bootcamp: My intensive Acne Bootcamp program combines customized treatments with an at-home skincare plan as well as a dietary and lifestyle guideline for clearer skin.
Clear skin is a journey, and each client’s path will be unique and different. By considering every factor, both internal and external, I create holistic, thoughtful treatment plans that truly make a difference.
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Special thanks to KrX Aesthetics, Hale & Hush, Face Reality Skincare, and GlyMed Plus for their education and information, which contribute to my customized acne treatments.
