Acne can be a source of frustration and self-consciousness, but it's important to remember that acne is normal and treatable. In this blog, we will explore the root causes of acne, the different types of acne, and introduce effective treatments to help manage and improve this skin condition.
The root causes of acne
Acne develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Several factors can contribute to this :
- Hormonal changes: Such as those during puberty or pregnancy, can increase oil production
- Diet: High intakes of dairy and refined sugars may worsen acne for some people
- Stress: Can exacerbate acne by increasing cortisol, which boosts oil production
- Genetics: A family history of acne can increase susceptibility
- Medications: Certain drugs can provoke or aggravate acne
- Cosmetics: Oil-based products can clog pores
The diverse types of acne
Acne could manifests in various forms, each with its own characteristics. So understanding the acne types nuances is crucial for effective management and achieving clear and healthy skin.
- Comedonal acne: also known as non-inflammatory acne, primarily involves the formation of comedones – small, flesh-colored bumps that develop when hair follicles become clogged with dead skin cells and excess oil. There are two main types of comedones:
- Blackheads (Open comedones): Blackheads occur when the pore remains open, allowing air to oxidize the trapped debris, giving it a dark appearance.
- Whiteheads (Closed comedones): Whiteheads form when the pore closes, trapping oil and bacteria beneath the skin's surface, resulting in a white or flesh-colored bump.
Comedonal acne is typically milder compared to other forms of acne and often responds well to topical treatments containing ingredients like salicylic acid and retinoids, which help to unclog pores and promote cell turnover.
- Inflammatory acne:
Inflammatory acne encompasses a range of lesions characterized by redness, swelling, and inflammation due to the body's immune response to bacteria within the blocked pores. This category includes:
- Papules: Small, red bumps that may be tender to the touch
- Pustules: Pus-filled lesions that appear as white or yellow bumps on the skin's surface
- Nodules: Large, painful, solid lumps beneath the skin caused by the buildup of bacteria, oil, and dead skin cells deep within the hair follicles
- Cysts: Deep, inflamed lesions filled with pus that can cause significant pain and scarring
Inflammatory acne often requires a more aggressive treatment approach, including topical and oral medications such as antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide, and oral contraceptives to target bacterias, reduce inflammation, and prevent future breakouts.
- Cystic acne:
Cystic acne is the most severe and debilitating form of acne, characterized by large, deep, painful cysts that develop beneath the skin's surface. These cysts result from a combination of factors, including excessive oil production, bacterial overgrowth, and inflammation.
Cystic acne is notoriously difficult to treat and may lead to scarring if left untreated. Dermatological interventions such as isotretinoin (Accutane), corticosteroid injections, and surgical drainage may be necessary to manage cystic acne effectively.
Acne is a complex skin condition with various manifestations, ranging from mild comedonal acne to severe cystic acne. Understanding the different types of acne and their underlying causes is essential for implementing an appropriate treatment regimen tailored to individual needs. Whether it's adopting a consistent skincare routine, incorporating topical treatments, or seeking professional dermatological care, addressing acne effectively can lead to clearer, healthier skin and improved overall well-being.
How to tackle acne with Bella Aura Skincare
Start with the Rapid Repair Clarifying Elixir which suits people with mild to moderate acne and sensitive skin.
Apply the elixir twice daily after cleansing. Its lightweight formula is non-greasy and designed to soothe and heal acne-prone skin effectively.
The rapid repair clarifying elixir reduces inflammation by calming skin irritations and redness and targeting acne-causing bacterias. It promotes skin healing by enhancing the skin’s natural barrier to minimize future breakouts and balances the skin microbiome by maintaining a healthy bacterial balance on the skin.
For adults dealing with hormonal acne, the Multi Repair Rescue Masque is particularly effective for oily skin prone to blackheads and whiteheads. It's also ideal for hypersensitive skin that can tolerate retinoids and acids better than other skin types. Use the masque 3-4 times weekly by applying a generous layer to clean skin and leave it on overnight. In the morning, rinse with cold water to reveal rejuvenated, clear skin.
Key benefits:
- Soothes and calms: Provides immediate relief from skin irritation and reduces redness, particularly important for inflamed acne lesions
- Detoxifies and heals: Purifies the skin, clearing out clogged pores that lead to blackheads and whiteheads while supporting natural healing processes
- Restores hydration: Intensely moisturizes the skin to help maintain a healthy barrier, crucial for skin exposed to acne treatments
- Rebalances the microbiata: Aims to restore and maintain the natural balance of the skin’s microbiota, essential for healthy skin defense against acne.
The Rapid repair Claryfing Elixir and the Multi Repair Rescue Masque offer comprehensive solutions by addressing the specific challenges of adult hormonal acne, ensuring effective relief and promoting long-term skin health.
Embracing your skin
Acne is a normal part of many people’s lives, and it’s perfectly okay to have acne. Remember, it does not define your beauty or worth. With understanding and the right care, managing acne becomes a part of a journey toward self-acceptance and skin health. Let’s continue to normalize conversations about acne and support each other in embracing our natural selves.