Acne is one of the most common skin challenges in the United States, and it is not just limited to teenagers. In fact it impacts all ages, races and genders. Nearly 60 million Americans have activeacne and 20 million are at risk of developing scar tissue as a result.
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Acne is defined as a skin disease that occurs as a result of inflamed or infected sebaceous glands in the skin - when the follicles, dead skin cells and sebum (a combination of squalane, wax esters andtriglycerides) get trapped in pores and become infected with bacteria. While there are many theories as to the exact cause of acne, we do know there are a number of triggers including: hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, medications, stress, poor hygiene, and genetics. The key to proper treatment is proper diagnosis of the root cause for your client.
Common Acne Triggers
Hormones - oil production is regulated heavily by hormones, specifically testosterone, which stimulates the development of sebaceousfollicles and attached oil glands. This explains why acne is most common during puberty, pregnancy, menstrual cycles and menopause.
Stress - stress is one of the top triggers of acne as it stimulates the adrenal glands to produce more cortisol, which can cause excess sebum and inflammation. Acne flare-ups can occur anywhere form 14 days to one month after the stress response.
Medication - the hormones (adrenals) may be affected by some medications and drug use and can spur on blemishes.
Nutrition - alcohol, caffeine and foods with iodides (salt, processed and fast foods, MSG, dairy in excess) can trigger existing acne.
Face cleansing - when oil builds up on the skin, bacteria will form, which creates blemishes. Sleeping in makeup, along with exposure to debris from the day, sets up a perfect opportunity for more bacteria. Teaching your clients to cleanse properly and regularly will often eliminate their acne issues.
Skin irritants - detergents, fabric softeners, certain shampoos and conditioners, and fragrances or dyes can irritate existing acne conditions.
Drying - overuse of certain drying skin care products may cause the skin to over-produce sebum.
Genetics - some may be predisposed to acne based on certain genes that are passed along, but it is believed it is polygenic, or a grouping of genes as opposed to one singular gene.
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Be sure to talk to clients about the role lifestyle plays in the skin's health. It is important that they eliminate as many antagonizers as possible, adopt a healthy, clean diet and reduce exposure to skin irritants by changing pillowcases often, thoroughly rinsing laundry to get rid of excess soap, and using healthy skin care products. Also remind clients to keep their hands off of their skin as this adds contamination to an already vulnerable area. Whenever there is a localized area of acnelesions, ask questions and determine if they are touching their skin, resting their hand on their face or even sleeping on that area.