The Rise of Adult Acne
Recent studies reported by the American Dermatology Association suggest adult acne is drastically on the rise. Acne is no longer just a teen skin problem; in fact the median age for patients suffering from acne has been gradually increasing to today’s age of 26.5 years, but it can extend well into one’s 50’s. Not only is adult acne more persistent than the teen version, scarring is more prevalent due to the skin’s inability to repair itself due to ageing and a slower rate of skin cell turnover.
What is Acne?
Acne is a genetic defect of one’s pores which stimulates the sebaceous (oil glands) to produce more oil and to retain dead skin cells. The result is a sticky glue that blocks the pores and allows the oil to build up for the bacteria to feed on and breed. Acne can present itself with a variety of lesions including pimples, blackheads, nodules and cysts. Stress is one of the main contributing factors, with women being more likely than men to suffer from adult acne. Women tend to include more stress into their daily lives by often having to juggle a job with raising a family, not to mention the hormonal imbalances that they experience with their menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause.
Treatment
Depending on the severity of the acne, different treatment protocols are recommended, but a great way to help your skin get into better shape is to correctly care for your skin at home.
• Read your product labels. Avoid those with harmful ingredients such as lanolin, mineral oils and isopropyl myristate which can further block pores and aggravate acne.
• Hygiene. Regularly replace and sanitize all make-up sponges/brushes and face cloths as these are common breeding grounds for acne causing bacteria.
• Correct removal of make-up. Simply washing your skin at night is not enough to clean it thoroughly. Your first cleanse may be sufficient to remove superficial make-up, dirt, pollution and sunscreens, but you are going need to perform a second cleanse in order to actually clean the skin and its pores.
• Stress management. Each person has their own way of handling stress, whether it’s a walk outdoors, a bubble bath, a good book or a massage; ensure you make time for your special activity to keep extra tension at bay.
• Healthy Lifestyle. A balanced diet and exercise is elemental in promoting good health, which will have a positive effect on your skin.
Helpful Dermalogica Products
PreCleanse (AED150 for 150ml)
This lightweight water-soluble oil cleanser gently liquefies oil and oil-based debris/products from the skin’s surface. Although not enough to use on its own, it’s a great way to prepare the skin for a cleanser.
Clearing Mattifier (AED162 for 40ml)
A medicated topical treatment that clears breakouts, reduces congestion and controls shine. The paraben-free velvety product melts gently into skin to help diminish fine lines and smoothes the skin texture. It may be used only on the T-zone or other areas of congestion (as opposed to all over the face) and sits perfectly under makeup.
Overnight Clearing Gel (AED170 for 50ml)
This overnight medicated treatment gel helps clear skin and prevents future breakout activity. Salicylic Acid and anti-microbial agents aid in the removal of dead skin cells, reduce excess oil and diminish acne causing bacteria. It is Paraben free.
Oil Free Matte Block SPF20 (AED195 for 50ml)
A 2-in-1 oil free moisturizer and sun protection, that gives the skin necessary hydration while microsponges assist in regulating oil levels. Additionally skin is protected against harmful UV rays which can accelerate the aging process and cause acne scarring.
Visit Dermalogica on Burj
Telephone: 04 339 8250
Web: www.dermalogica.com
Email: dermalogica@healthcarellc.com
Address: The Dubai Mall, level 1, F-9 (close to the Aquarium)