To help you tackle the cause of your acne, we’ve come up with a list of 12 potential culprits. Acne can be frustrating and sometimes even depressing but if you’re armed with the information on what could be causing your acne, you’re on the way to finding the right solution.
Acne results when hair follicles become blocked and inflamed due to an over-production of oil in the skin. The clogged pores promote the growth of bacteria and voila, you have a breakout. Besides genetics and hormones, understanding your triggers can help narrow down your treatment options. Is it stress? Is it dairy? Is it the make-up you’re wearing? Let’s have a look at some key contributors to breakouts.
12 COMMON TRIGGERS FOR BREAKOUTS
- Disrupted skin barrier
When your skin barrier isn’t functioning properly it can make you vulnerable to breakouts. Making your skin irritated, red or dry by over-exfoliating or picking at your spots will limit your skin’s ability to protect itself. Be gentle with your skin and use creams and cleansers for sensitive skin.
- Stress
Stress can impact your entire wellbeing and it shows in your skin. Although becoming less stressed may not guarantee you clear skin, high-stress levels can certainly trigger spots. Getting lots of sleep will also help your skin to heal.
- Cosmetics & hair products
Pore-clogging moisturisers, make-up and hair products can wreak havoc on your skin. Keeping your skin balanced – not too oily and not too dry is important when trying to avoid breakouts.
- Food allergies / diet
Allergies or sensitivities to certain foods can trigger a breakout several days after eating the food. Foods commonly associated to acne include dairy, skim milk, gluten, sugar and soy. Keeping a food diary and tracking your skin condition can help you to isolate the culprits.
- Bacteria
We know that bacteria growth in clogged pores from an over-supply of oil in the skin causes acne. SublativeTM radio-frequency treatment vaporises the build up of keratinised cell debris that builds up in the follicle helping to clear and decongest them. It also affects the sebaceous glands, therefore reducing and controlling sebum (oil) production. This is the key point of difference with the SublativeTM which means superior results with less downtime vs other laser treatments.
You can reduce your chances of scarring by treating active acne early. Usually, 4 treatments are needed 4-6 weeks apart.
- Mixed signals
Occasionally, people surfer from other conditions and incorrectly diagnose themselves as having acne. Other skin conditions that can be misinterpreted as acne include rosacea and dermatitis. If you’re unsure, it’s best to see a skin professional.
- Overload on acne treatment
Using harsh or too much acne treatment can have the opposite effect you are hoping for when trying to clear your skin. Sometimes people see an improvement in their skin when they stop using skin treatments as it gives the skin a break and the chance to heal itself.
- Underlying health issues
Health problems such as digestive issues, thyroid problems and diabetes for example can lead to acne symptoms. It’s important to see a doctor if you suspect you have an underlying health issue.
- Genetics
Genetics play a role in weather or not you will be prone to acne. If your parent or sibling had acne, you are more likely to have it as well, just like if they suffered scarring from acne, you will also be more susceptible. Effectively treating the active acne is the best way to avoid acne scarring.
- Hormones
Acne is most common during puberty, pregnancy and menstrual cycles as hormones play a big part. Deep acne and cysts are associated with hormonal acne. Certain supplements and medications can help to regulate your hormones.
- Detergent
Residual laundry detergent on your pillow and clothing can irritate the skin and lead to spots. Try changing to soap flakes or a detergent designed for sensitive skin.
- Heat / not washing after a workout
Sweating or working out and then not washing your face leads to too much oil on your skin and the heat promotes the growth of bacteria. Try to keep your face clean and dry after working up a sweat.
WHAT’S THE LEADING ACNE TREATMENT?
SublativeTM treatment for acne uses fractionated radio frequency energy that affects the sebaceous glands so that oil/sebum production is reduced and controlled, it also clears congested follicles. The treatment gets right into the dermal (second) layer of the skin for optimal acne improvement.
There is no downtime with SublativeTM treatment. Your skin will have redness and tiny pinhole like marks, however the redness resolves within 24 hours and the tiny marks can be covered with tinted moisturiser.
NEXT STEPS
If you would like to know more about how we use SublativeTM technology for the safe and effective treatment of acne, come in to see the acne experts at Eden Laser Clinic for a complimentary consultation. We will analyse your skin condition and you will a receive personalised treatment plan.
