What is Acne?

Acne is the term we use to describe any skin showing signs and symptoms of congestion. This congestion occurs when the hair follicles and pores in the skin become plugged with sebum and dead skin cells. Where there is bacteria present these pores then become infected and can turn into pustules, white heads and cysts.

There are many different types and severities of Acne for example hormonal, cystic, bacterial and Acne Rosacea. However, all acne, at the core, is triggered by hormones and our gut health.

Here are a few products I frequently recommend to our clients when enquiring and presenting with this concern.

Acne Treatment Cleanser (2-3 times a week max)

Salicylic acid based cleansers that go deep into the pore, 'mop up' excess oil and is anti-bacterial as well as anti-inflammatory.

• Image Clear Cell Cleanser

• Environ Sebu-Wash Cleanser

• Cerave Blemish Control Cleanser

For a more regular cleanser try something less active that will still give a deep cleanse but not cause irritation.

• ASAP Gentle Soothing Cleansing Gel
• Environ Low Foam Cleansing Gel
• Image Ormedic Cleanser

Dry Acne Cleanser

• Acne Rosacea can be inflamed, dry, irritated and texturized.
• Environ Hydra Intense Cleanser will comfort and calm the skin while helping to restore the barrier.
• Murad Soothing Oat & Peptide Cleanser is ideal if there is discomfort in the skin

Serum/Active to help treat

Environ Body Duo (ACE Oil & Derma-Lac Lotion) -Yes you read that right, this duo is unmatched when it comes to helping treat acne on the skin. It is two products mixed and applied together and should be used on the face day and night on a clean skin. The level of vitamin A in this duo helps normalise, lightly exfoliate and repair the skin, The Lactic Acid in the Derma-Lac hydrates and helps brighten.

ASAP Super B Serum- This wonderful product contains Hyaluronic acid and Niacinamide. An Acne prone skin needs these two important ingredients for hydration and for strengthening pore walls and well as soothing. Make sure your skin is slightly damp when applying.

Should I still use a moisturiser if I am oily or have a breakout?

Absolutely. Yes! The oiliness we experience on our skin is not moisturising. Ingredients like ceramides. hyaluronic acid, peptides and fatty acids are all needed to keep your barrier healthy, promote healing and to normalise and repair the skin.

• Image Clear Cell Mattifying Moisturiser, can be used day and night, use under SPF for day time.

• Avene Cleanance Mattifying Emulsion, light weight formula suitable for young pre teen skin too!
• Murad Nutrient Charge Water Gel
• Image Biome+ Dew Bright Serum- use on clean skin under SPF and at night under a moisturiser

Supplements are the key support to help treat Acne

Remember that treating the skin both internally and topically will give you the best results.

• Gut Health- Advanced Nutrition Programme Clear Biome
• Advanced Nutrition Programme - Accumax - helps rebalance the skin, anti-inflames and normalise sebum production.
• Hush & Hush Skin Capsule Clear + - Vegan. plant based supplement fights stubborn breakouts and minimise internal inflammation. 

SPF Protection for skin with acne

SPF Should be the one non-negational product in everyone's routine and remember that when we are treating Acne we are more than likely using actives like acids and vitamin A so it is paramount that we continue to protect and prevent further damage in the skin

• Alumier - Clear Shield SPF 40
• Image Prevention Matte Moisturiser SPF 30
• Skinceuticals Oil Shield UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50

As with any skin concern you are dealing with don't suffer alone and never be afraid to reach out to our experts for advice and recommendations or book an online skin consultation.