At our medical spa, we see acne as one of the most common skin concerns, and we totally understand how frustrating it can be. That’s why it’s so important to get to know acne better and learn how to manage it effectively. In this blog post, our expert aestheticians are here to break down what acne is, what causes it, and how it develops. Plus, we’ll share why our Defy facials can be a fantastic way to manage breakouts and keep future flare-ups at bay. So, let’s get started!

First, What Is Acne?

Acne is a chronic skin condition that often affects teens and young adults, but it can stick around into adulthood for many patients. It happens when hair follicles get clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. While we usually think of acne as a teenage issue linked to puberty and hormonal changes, there are many factors that can contribute to its development, making it a bit more complicated to tackle than it may seem.

What Are The Types of Acne?

Acne manifests in different forms, each with its individual characteristics:

-Comedones: These are types of non-inflammatory acne lesions that can be either open (blackheads) or closed (whiteheads). Blackheads have that familiar dark appearance, which happens when melanin in the clogged pore gets oxidized. On the other hand, whiteheads stay tucked beneath the skin's surface and aren't exposed to air.

-Papules: These are small, raised red bumps that may be tender to the touch. They can indicate inflammation and are often a sign of infection in the clogged pore.

-Pustules: Pustules are similar to papules but are filled with pus, giving them a white or yellow center. They can be a bit painful and might leave marks on the skin after they heal.

-Nodules: Nodules are large, painful bumps that form beneath the skin and can take quite a while to heal. These deeper lesions are often the result of significant inflammation and may lead to scarring.

-Cysts: Deep, pus-filled lesions that can be very painful and may lead to scarring. Cysts are often the result of severe acne and require professional treatment.

What Are The Root Causes of Acne?

Several factors contribute to the development of acne:

-Hormonal Changes: During puberty, boys and girls experience an increase in hormones called androgens, which can cause oil glands to grow and produce more sebum, leading to acne. Fluctuations in hormones during menstruation, pregnancy, or while using hormonal contraceptives can also trigger breakouts.

-Excess Oil Production: Sebum is the natural oil our skin produces to keep it moisturized. However, when our sebaceous glands produce too much sebum, it can mix with dead skin cells and clog pores, contributing to acne.

-Bacteria: There's a type of bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) that commonly lives on our skin. But when pores get clogged, these bacteria can multiply, leading to inflammation and the development of acne.

-Inflammation: When our body senses bacteria in clogged pores, it kicks off an inflammatory response. This is what causes the redness, swelling, and discomfort often associated with acne.

-Diet and Lifestyle: Certain foods, especially those high in sugar and dairy, can cause acne to worsen. Plus, lifestyle factors like stress and not getting enough sleep can mess with our hormones and impact skin health.

Why Facials Are Effective for Managing Acne:

Facials, especially acne-specific treatments, are an excellent addition to any acne management routine. Here are some important reasons why:

1. They Provide A Deep Cleansing You Can’t Get At Home:

Professional facials offer a thorough cleansing that effectively removes impurities, excess oil, and dead skin cells. This deep clean is essential for unclogging pores and preventing future breakouts.

2. They Take Exfoliation To The Next Level:

Medical-grade facials include advanced exfoliation techniques that help slough off dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. This is particularly important for acne-prone skin, as it helps keep pores clear and reduces the chances of breakouts!

3. They Help Prevent Future Breakouts:

Many facials include safe extractions to remove blackheads and whiteheads. This professional approach minimizes the risk of scarring or infection that can occur with at-home extractions, making it easier to maintain clear skin.

4. Targeted Treatments Deliver Faster Results:

Facials often incorporate specialized ingredients that target acne, like salicylic acid and anti-inflammatory serums. These potent treatments penetrate the skin more effectively than standard over-the-counter products, providing quicker and more noticeable results.

5. They Restore Your Skin's Moisture Barrier:

Hydration is key, even for acne-prone skin! Facials typically include hydrating elements that soothe irritated skin and maintain a balanced moisture level. Well-hydrated skin is more resilient and less likely to break out.

6. They Enhance Your Self-Care Ritual:

Facials aren’t just about skin care - they’re also a wonderful chance to relax and practice self-care. Reducing stress can positively impact your acne, so facials are a great way to address both your skin’s physical needs and your emotional well-being!

7. They Give A Personalized Skincare Plan At Home:

After your facial, you’ll receive recommendations tailored to your skin type and concerns. This expert advice helps you choose the right products and follow a routine that supports your ongoing acne treatment.

What to Expect During a Defy Facial to Treat Acne:

Thinking about getting an acne facial? Here’s what you can typically expect during your treatment at our medical spa

-Consultation: Your journey begins with a chat! Your aesthetician will discuss your skin concerns, medical history, and any products you’re currently using. This conversation helps us understand your unique needs and allows us to create a personalized treatment plan just for your skin.

-Cleansing: Next up is a thorough cleansing of your skin to remove makeup, oil, and impurities. This step prepares your skin for deeper treatments and ensures that everything that follows works its magic more effectively.

-Exfoliation: Time to shed those dead skin cells! A gentle exfoliating treatment will help brighten your complexion. Depending on your skin type and sensitivity, your aesthetician may use mechanical exfoliation (like dermaplaning or microdermabrasion) or chemical exfoliation (such as a mild peel) to get your skin glowing.

-Extraction: If needed, your aesthetician will perform extractions to clear out clogged pores. This step is key for reducing blemishes and helping prevent future breakouts.

-Mask: A soothing mask will be applied to nourish your skin. Masks designed for acne-prone skin often contain ingredients that help reduce inflammation and promote healing, giving your skin some much needed TLC.

-Lock In Moisture:  Finally, a lightweight moisturizer suitable for acne-prone skin will be applied to hydrate your skin without clogging pores. This step is crucial for keeping your skin balanced and hydrated, which helps prevent future breakouts.

Managing acne can be a complicated journey, but with the right approach (and your Defy team!), you can achieve clearer skin. Acne facial treatments are a fantastic part of this process, providing deep cleansing, exfoliation, and expert guidance tailored just for you. At our medical spa, we're here to support you every step of the way.

Whether you're interested in lip filler, Botox/Dysport, skin lasers, or want to learn more about our Defy Monthly Facial Membership (a perfect choice for those who want to transform their skin without the price tag over the course of a year!), we’d love to see you in our Bethesda medical spa soon.