What causes acne?
Acne is an inflammatory disease of the skin, caused by changes in the hair follicle and its associated sebaceous gland (pilosebaceous units). Acne lesions are commonly referred to as pimples, papules, pustules and even deeper cysts or nodules.
Acne is not restricted to a specific age group. Adults in their 30’s - even up to their 60’s - can develop acne. An increase of sebum production occurs with increased androgen (male hormones) production beginning in the teen years. It can also occur for the first time in menopausal women. Excess sebum and cell debris block pores, thus allowing bacteria that cause acne (P. acnes) to accumulate. In these conditions, the anaerobic bacteria linked to acne, Propionibacterium Acnes, proliferates causing inflammation. This can lead to lesions (papules, infected pustules or nodules in the dermis, around the microcomedone).
How to control and treat your acne
- The presence of papules, pustules (infection, pus), excess sebum on the skin and a lot of blackheads: For this type of acne, we look more for an antiseptic, bactericidal action to kill the acne-causing bacteria.
- Cysts, microcysts, nodules, blackheads, but no oil on the surface of the skin, the texture of the skin is rough, uneven and dehydrated: For this type of acne, we want to oxygenate and liquefy the secretions to control the proliferation of bacteria.
What ingredients to look for?
- Probiotics: Based on recent positive studies, dermatologists are recommending topical probiotics as a component of an effective skin care strategy to combat acne
- Zinc Amino Acids: Astringent, bacteriostatic, antiseptic and anti-seborrheic actions (inhibits 5α reductase).
- Oxygen Complexes: Kills anaerobes (bacteria that cannot live in the presence of oxygen), and acts as a bactericidal agent.
- Salicylic Acid: Clears the cellular buildup that clogs the pores and provides an antiseptic action.
- Niacinamide: Improves the appearance of pores and imparts a more even-looking skin tone
How G.M. COLLIN can help