Acne is actually a skin condition rather than a skin type. The terms "skin condition" and “skin disorder” are used interchangeably, and are secondary to your underlying primary skin type that you are genetically predisposed to. Because acne is in fact a skin condition, it is essential. especially for those with Acne from Grades 3-5, to go see a dermatologist in order to be treated with prescription topical or oral antibiotics that address the problem effectively.

In a recent podcast, “Clear Skin Secrets With Dr. Pimple Popper (aka Dr. Sandra Lee) by Breaking Beauty”, the well-known dermatologist explains that medicine is the only current ‘cure’ to acne. This is because this condition is a hormonal and/or genetic issue. In fact, not only are recommended medications able in some cases to help to control hormones and clear acne, but also prevent scarring, a post-acne side effect that is very difficult to treat.

This is why we are wary of products labeled “Acne Clearing” and “For Acne-Prone Skin,” as often they don’t address the root of the problem, but rather a symptom. Also, these products are frequently overused or misused. In addition, they (almost always!) contain harsh and drying ingredients that can aggravate the skin and result in inflammation, making matters temporarily better and then worse!

For example, a cleanser formulated for acne will remove dirt, grime and excess oil that can aggravate an acne condition, but as it does this it will also remove the outer layer of protective cells on the skin and disrupt the acid mantle. Hello vulnerable skin! The more your skin is exposed to the outside world, the more prone it becomes to inflammation and irritation.

If you do have acneic skin, we would recommend spending the time and money to see a dermatologist or doctor rather than buying several different products that will likely end up costing you just as much without the results. By acne skin we are talking are persistent, chronic breakouts, not just a spot or two here and there.

Don’t get us wrong, skincare chosen wisely can help to calm, protect, and reduce inflammation on the skin. However, it is sadly in many cases far from the solution to the problem. With most suffering from acne, there are other things going on that skincare alone cannot address and we get very frustrated with products that make unrealistic claims.

Determine what grade of acne you have. Acne varies in severity from Grade 1 to Grade 5. Therefore, if you only get a few spots just before or during your menstrual cycle, we would define this as a ‘breakout’ rather than an acne skin condition.

Acne Grades:

•Acne Grade 1 - Comedones on the T-Zone

•Acne Grade 2 - Comedones, papules and pustules on the T-Zone

•Acne Grade 3 - Comedones, papules and pustules spreading the full facial area and possibly the chest and back

•Acne Grade 4 - Widespread comedones, papules and pustules over the entire face and incorporating the chest and back.

•Acne Grade 5 - Cystic Acne

If your acne is more severe, see a dermatologist. Dermatologists in London that we love are Dr. Anjali Mahto (@anjalimahto) and Dr. Sam Bunting (@drsambunting), these women are as expert as it gets, and have years of experience treating acne skin.

For those with more mild acne conditions (grades 1-2), then you can look for over the counter products that;

• Do not have fragrance
• Non-drying BHA (if skin burns or becomes very red, then the product is too strong!)
• Lightweight SPF
• Gentle foaming cleanser that does not make skin feel tight

Want to learn what’s right for your unique skin? Click to book your Holistic Skin Session now!