When dealing with acne, many think "drying" up the oil is the first line of defense. Aggressive facial cleansing is next in the acne fighting arsenal. Proper cleansing is important. As is balancing excess oil. However, proper exfoliation is VITAL in resolving acne and preventing future breakouts.
What is Acne?
Acne is a condition in which a follicle becomes blocked by dead skin cells. This blockage causes inflammation and can lead to infection. The infected follicle often erupts which manifests as a "white head" pimple. Many infected and erupted follicles are referred to as a "break out". A follicle that is inflamed and infected below the surface of the skin is known as cystic acne. A blocked follicle that does not become infected, yet remains blocked with dirt, oil and debris, is called a comedone or "black head". Black heads are not necessarily considered "acne". However, a comedone can lead to an inflammed follicle. And those who suffer with acne often deal with black heads.
Chemical vs. Mechanical Exfoliation for Acne
Although, mechanical exfoliation techniques work well for anti-aging concerns and can reduce the appearance of acne scarring, it is not our recommendation to fight or prevent active acne conditions. We recommend chemical exfoliation via glycolic resurfacing treatments and our amazing Marini Refine Peel. Home care using a glycolic resurfacing (exfoliation) product is also an important weapon to battle acne on a daily basis. Glycolic acid penetrates the the follicle deeply, breaking down the blockage and allowing the debris to come to the surface to be sloughed off. Because glycolic acid involves bringing debris to the surface, there is an expected period of skin acclimation. The duration is different for everyone. However, if you experience breakouts, due to the clearing of a follicle, it will be less inflamed and heal more quickly. Speak with your esthetician if breakouts persist. We have a variety of products for resistant acne conditions.
Exfoliation for Dry Skin
Dry skin will often cling to the surface of your skin, creating a dull complexion. We recommend using the Skin Zyme mask. This product offers gentle exfoliation, leaving the skin looking polished smooth. Our Skin Zyme mask has the ability to digest dead skin cells without harming sensitive or irritated tissues. Often dry skin can be easily irritated and feel sensitive. So, Skin Zyme's gentle proteolytic enzyme action from Papain (Green Unripened Papaya) is a great fit for those dealing with dryness. We also offer a WONDERFUL Express Facial using the same ezymatic technology, for those on the go.
Exfoliators to Avoid
We highly recommend staying away from ultra gritty over-the-counter or drug store exfoliating products such as, the infamous apricot "scrub". These products are too abrasive for delicate facial skin and can cause more harm than good. Also avoid home "remedy" or Pinterest "recipes" for exfoliating scrubs or masks. These recipes often call for ingredients such as, lemon juice, baking soda, or various vinegars. Putting these products on your face can disrupt your skin's natural acid mantle, causing a host of problems. Not to mention, none of these exfoliation techniques are medically validated as effective ways to lighten hyperpigmentation, reduce the appearance scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, or clear up acne conditions.
Before choosing an exfoliation product or service, please let us guide you according to your personal areas of concern. We encourage you to schedule a FREE skin consultation by calling 209-369-9191 or by clicking HERE to schedule online.
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