Acne at different ages

Causes of acne

Environmental factors

Environmental conditions can also play a role in the development and aggravation of acne. Here are a few examples:

1. Climate and humidity :
   • Hot and humid climates can increase sebum production and promote pore blockage.
2. Pollution :
   • Exposure to pollution and other environmental irritants can inflame the skin and exacerbate acne symptoms. For more information on environmental impacts on skin health, visit Environment and Climate Change Canada.
3. Hygiene and lifestyle habits :
   • Poor hygiene, such as not washing the face regularly or using dirty makeup tools, can contribute to pore blockage. Similarly, an unbalanced diet and lack of exercise can impact skin health.

Myths about acne causes

There are many myths about the causes of acne. It’s important to distinguish fact from myth:

• Diet: Contrary to popular belief, greasy foods and chocolate do not directly cause acne. However, a balanced diet can help maintain healthy skin.
• Hygiene: Poor hygiene is not the cause of acne. Excessive cleaning can irritate the skin and worsen symptoms.
• Sun exposure: While sun exposure may temporarily improve acne symptoms, it can also cause long-term damage and worsen acne over time.

Acne severity classification

Acne is classified according to its severity to determine the appropriate treatment. Here are the categories generally used:

1. Mild acne :
   • Presence of open comedones (blackheads) and closed comedones (whiteheads) with a few papules and pustules. The condition is usually limited to the face.
2. Moderate acne :
   • Many comedones, papules, and pustules, with possible nodules. The condition may extend to the back and chest.
3. Severe acne :
   • Presence of numerous painful nodules and cysts, often associated with significant inflammation. The risk of permanent scarring is high.

Hygiene and lifestyle practices for managing acne

Practices to avoid

Certain practices can aggravate acne. Here’s what to avoid:

1. Avoid Picking at Pimples
   • Refrain from squeezing, scratching, or manipulating pimples, which can cause inflammation, infections, and scarring.
2. Avoid comedogenic products:
   • Choose skincare and makeup products labelled “non-comedogenic” to prevent pore blockage.
3. Don’t wash your face too much:
   • Excessive cleansing can irritate the skin and stimulate sebum production. Limit washing to twice a day.

Lifestyle hygiene

Certain lifestyle habits can help manage acne. Here are a few tips:

1. Balanced diet :
   • Adopt a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid foods high in sugar and glycemic index that may worsen acne in some individuals.
2. Hydration :
   • Drink plenty of water daily to maintain good skin hydration.
3. Stress management :
   • Practice stress management techniques, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing, to prevent stress-related acne flare-ups.

Specific tips

Certain situations require specific precautions to manage acne:

1. Sports activities :
   • After exercise, shower promptly to remove sweat and prevent pore blockage. Wear breathable fabrics.
2. Sun exposure :
   • Use non-comedogenic sunscreen to prevent skin damage. Although the sun may temporarily improve acne, it can cause long-term harm.
3. Use of cosmetics:
   • Limit heavy cosmetics and opt for light, non-comedogenic products. Regularly clean makeup brushes and applicators.

Importance of consistency

Managing acne requires patience and consistency. It is essential to :

• Follow a regular skincare routine without skipping steps.
• Use prescribed treatments continuously, even if results are not immediately visible.
• Consult regularly to adjust treatment based on progress.

Technological solutions for improving acne

Laser treatments are used to target and treat the different layers of skin affected by acne.
They can help reduce acne scars and improve the overall appearance of the skin.

Hollywood Peel – Spectra

The Spectra™ is a versatile laser for non-surgical skin rejuvenation. It uses a specific three-stage wavelength and a patented lotion to control acne inflammation, reduce sebum production, and promote skin cell replacement.

Chemical peels

Peels reduce scarring, rosacea, and pigmentation spots caused by acne by eliminating dead epidermal cells. They also regenerate the skin by promoting its renewal through exfoliation.

Fractional Laser

This technology is widely used in aesthetic medicine to reduce acne scars. During the first session, acne lesions diminish in volume and new acne outbreaks are significantly reduced.

Recommended skincare products

Topical treatments are applied directly to the skin and are often used for mild to moderate forms of acne. Gentle Cleansers. For example:

• Vivier Medicated Cleanser: This oil-free medicated cleanser has a balanced pH. It is formulated with 2% salicylic acid USP and hexamidine. It eliminates bacteria and excess sebum and deeply cleanses pores.
• Vivier Refreshing Toner: Tightens pores and refines skin texture for a visibly smoother and softer appearance. Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and hypoallergenic.
• Ultra-Purifying Clay Mask: A luxurious purifying mask made with red and white kaolin clay, formulated with AHAs to exfoliate dead cells and unclog pores.

• Acne-reducing creams/serums

For example:

• Vivier Radiance Serum: Formulated with arbutin and resorcinol to stimulate cell turnover and naturally lighten the appearance of acne scars.

• Ultimate – Vivier: An innovative lightweight hydrating gel with hyaluronic acid and neuropeptides to enhance hydration.
• Acne treatment lotion: An effective lotion for combating acne and controlling blemishes, containing 5% benzoyl peroxide USP, which eliminates and prevents the formation of new acne pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads

• Sun protection

For example SHEER SPF 45 by Vivier. A silky-matte sunscreen with SPF 45 for broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with a mattifying effect.