Acne is a skin condition that primarily affects the skin's oil glands, which are connected to the skin's pores. These glands produce sebum, a natural oil that carries dead skin cells to the skin's surface through tiny canals called follicles. When these follicles become clogged with dead skin cells or inflamed by bacteria, it leads to the development of acne. Acne most commonly appears on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders, and its prevalence can vary with age.

There are five grades of acne:

Grade I: Characterized by whiteheads (under the skin) or blackheads (on the skin's surface).

Grade II: Includes numerous closed comedones (whiteheads).

Grade III: Involves larger papules (painful pink bumps) and pustules (red with pus).

Grade IV: Features numerous pustules, papules, and large cysts.

Grade V: Known as Acne Necrotina, where every cyst contains a comedone.

Acne can have various causes, with genetics being the most common factor. Hormonal changes during adolescence, pregnancy, or the menstrual cycle can lead to overproduction of oil and clogged pores. Birth control pills may initially trigger acne due to hormonal changes. Additionally, certain medications or residual makeup on the skin can contribute to acne. Identifying the specific cause may require some experimentation.

Treating Acne:

Numerous treatments aim to address different aspects of acne, from healing existing pimples to preventing new ones and minimizing scarring. At SKN Clinic we offer chemical peels, IPL photofacials, DMK Enzyme Therpy to regenerate the skin cells and a plethora of skin care options to treat all acne. Regardless of the treatment chosen, there are universal steps that acne sufferers can follow to reduce the occurrence of acne:

Gentle Cleansing: Cleanse your skin with a mild cleanser in the morning, evening, and after sweating from workouts. Avoid excessive scrubbing or washing, as it can stimulate more oil production.

Hands Off: Resist the urge to touch or pick at your acne, as this can lead to scarring and worsen the condition.

Shaving Care: If you shave, do so gently after softening facial hair. Over-shaving or harsh shaving can promote more pimples.

Sun Protection: Be mindful of sun exposure, as acne treatments can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, causing premature aging and potentially skin cancer.

Non-Comedogenic Makeup: Choose makeup products that are non-comedogenic and oil-free, as certain ingredients can clog pores.

Hair Product Caution: Ensure that hair products do not come into contact with your skin, as they can contain greasy or irritating substances that worsen acne.

Acne is a skin issue that can only be managed not cured.

It’s very important to understand that acne is multifaceted and needs to be treated via foods, lifestyle, skin care and treatments. At SKN, we are acne specialists that’s take a holistic approach to acne treatments and focus on the whole person- not just the skin.