Acne Myths and Facts

Acne is caused by overactivity of the sebaceous glands, which secrete oily substances through the skin. Acne blemishes (commonly referred to as “pimples”) and blackheads usually occur on the face, back, chest and shoulders where the greatest number of these glands exist. Here are just a few myths and truths about acne.

1) Acne only affects teenagers FALSE: Almost everyone suffers from acne at some point in their life. Though most people associate acne with the teenager years, acne also affects both men and women in their 30s and 40s. 2) Sun exposure will improve my acne FALSE. While broadband light (such as that generated by the Aesthera PPx device used by CFI) will benefit acne sufferers, ultraviolet rays alone can damage follicles, closing them off and triggering acne outbreaks two to four weeks after sun exposure.

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3) A high fat diet causes acne

FALSE. Diet in general does not contribute to acne in most individuals. While certain foods may cause flare-ups of pre-existing acne, hormones and genetics are the main causes of acne.

4) Using astringent cleansers and scrubbing vigorously will improve my acne

FALSE. Excessive washing causes the body to produce more oil, which worsens acne. Acne breakouts are NOT caused by dirt. Acne is caused by hormones stimulating the oil glands, plugging of the pores by dead skin cells, and bacteria in the pores causing inflammation. Loofah sponges, Buff Puffs, scrubs containing particles, and strips applied to the skin are all irritating and can make acne worse.

5) I will outgrow my acne

FALSE. Most people do NOT outgrow their acne. This, like any other disease, must be treated. You should not ignore this condition.

6) If I could just relax, my acne would go away

FALSE. Stress does not cause acne, but it can make it worse. Stress causes additional hormones to be released, which may promote the process of producing new acne lesions.

Acne is not curable. However, it is very treatable. Spot-treating acne does NOT work. The entire face and involved area must be treated in order to prevent new acne lesions. The sooner you begin a comprehensive, individualized treatment program, the faster you have great-looking skin.

Creating a customized acne treatment regimen involves careful evaluation by a physician. Professional strength products are the foundation on which to build a successful program. Systemic drugs such as Tetracycline and Acutane may cause significant and serious reactions. Light chemical peels and photopneumatic devices treat the skin only and have a high rate of success.

CFI is proud to offer the Aesthera PPx device for treating multiple types of acne. The PPx System cleans pores combined with the proven therapeutic qualities of broadband light. Multiple PPx acne treatment clinical studies have demonstrated impressive outcomes. Treatment is painless and results are almost immediate. Typically fewer than five treatments are necessary to eliminate the majority of acne breakouts.

Daily “Do’s” and “Don’ts”

In addition to aggressive treatment, there are many things acne sufferers can do in their daily lives to reduce acne flare ups

1) Avoid rubbing, touching, or itching your skin with your hands. Your hands contain bacteria that can trigger acne breakouts. This is a frequently overlooked remedy.

2) Clean things that come into contact with your face. Wipe down your phone and cell phone with an antiseptic cleanser daily.

3) Drink enough water. Water helps the body flush out toxins, and transport nutrients to the skin. Drinking enough water reduces the strain on the skin to flush out toxins. The recommended amount of water you should drink is at least half your bodyweight in ounces of water (for example, a 140lb. individual should drink 70 ounces/day ). While water alone will not eliminate acne, it will greatly assist your skin in remaining healthy. That will be one victory in the winning battle against acne!

4) Get enough sleep: Hormone levels increase when sleep patterns are disturbed. Increased hormone levels results in increased sebum production which leads to... yep you guessed it--more acne. Sleep is when our skin cells are nourished and most of our cellular regeneration takes place Get to bed earlier!

5) Reduce your stress levels. Increased stress leads to increased hormones which tends aggravate acne in many people. In addition to eliminating things that cause you stress in your life, look into relaxation techniques. Practicing meditation or yoga may further reduce your stress levels.

Acne is not curable. However, it is very treatable. Spot-treating acne does NOT work. The entire face and involved area must be treated in order to prevent new acne lesions. The sooner you begin a comprehensive, individualized treatment program, the faster you have great-looking skin.

Creating a customized acne treatment regimen involves careful evaluation by a physician. Professional strength products are the foundation on which to build a successful program. Systemic drugs such as Tetracycline and Acutane may cause significant and serious reactions. Light chemical peels and photopneumatic devices treat the skin only and have a high rate of success.

CFI is proud to offer the Aesthera PPx device for treating multiple types of acne. The PPx System cleans pores combined with the proven therapeutic qualities of broadband light. Multiple PPx acne treatment clinical studies have demonstrated impressive outcomes. Treatment is painless and results are almost immediate. Typically fewer than five treatments are necessary to eliminate the majority of acne breakouts.

For more information on Aesthera PPx Light Treatment or other acne or skin rejuvenation treatments, please visit Dr. Mingrone at his Palo Alto California Face and Laser Institute office at 1900 University Avenue, Suite 101, call 650 462-3161 or e-mail facemd@calface.com

 

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