Adult acne is a fact of life for many women. The truth is that acne can persist well into ones 30’s, 40’s, or even 50’s. Doctors refer to this as persistent Acne. Even those who have never had acne before can develop it later in life. This is referred to as late-onset acne. In both cases, the acne usually presents itself in the form of painful, deep-seated nodules, predominantly on the lower face, around the mouth or chin, along the jaw-line, and sometimes on the chest or back.
Regardless of age, acne develops when excessive oil, or sebum, is produced by the skin and mixes with a proliferation of dead skin cells in the follicles (commonly referred to as “pores”). As these two components combine, they create a “plug” in the follicle, kind of like a cork in a wine bottle. Anaerobic bacteria (which thrive in conditions of little or no oxygen) named P. Acnes begin to proliferate and feed off of the excess sebum and skin cells. A combination of subsequent digestive bi-products stimulates intense local inflammation. Thus, a pimple is formed.
So, why do women get acne? Fluctuating hormones are often culprits in triggering acne. This can refer to monthly menstrual cycles, pregnancy, changes in birth control or menopause. Acne can be a common side effect of some medications. Family history of acne can predispose one to adult acne. Comedogenic (pore-clogging) hair and skin care products can cause or aggravate acne. And, yes, you guessed it…Stress! Researchers have found a relationship between higher levels of stress and acne in women with high-paced jobs. In response to stress, the body produces more androgens (a “male type” of hormone) which in turn stimulates increased oil production which can lead to acne flare-ups.
There is no definitive, cookie-cutter ‘cure’ for acne. One routine does not work for everyone. This fact can often frustrate patients. Every case of acne is different and will respond differently to various treatments. It is important to remember that there is no cure for acne. Often a treatment can work for months or years and then stop working. Changing your routine can be helpful if a previous regimen has stopped working. Occasional breakouts can still occur despite the best treatment routines. Maintaining a close and strong relationship with your skin care professional or Master Aesthetician at The Naderi Center will enable optimization of the best anti acne treatment course.
The following are several modalities typically used at The Naderi Center to treat acne. These can be combined and used to treat and reduce your acne symptoms.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
PRODUCTS
The Skinmedica Acne System utilizes Salicylic acid and micronized Benzoyl Peroxide to reduce clogged pores and P. acnes bacteria without excessively drying the skin. For more severe acne, Prescription Retin-A can be added in the evening (if you are not pregnant or trying to get pregnant or breast feeding). If your acne has caused post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, prescription hydroquinone can also be used to regain an even skin tone. Be sure to ask your esthetician to recommend the best form of UV protection to supplement your routine.
The products carried at The Naderi Center are medical grade products that differ from ones carried by spas, drug stores or department stores
Women on Retin-A or Hydroquinone must use reliable birth control techniques. If taking an antibiotic, remember that your oral contraceptive pill may not work properly!
FACIALS
All of our facials offer superior forms of both chemical exfoliation and anti inflammation while still being pampering and relaxing! We recommend adding microdermabrasion to your facial to receive maximum benefit and improvement in skin texture and tone. Microdermabrasion will remove the dead keratin layer sitting on the top layer of your skin and allow better and more even penetration of safe and effective cosmeceutical products during your treatments and at home.
MEDICAL MICRODERMABRASION
Microdermabrasion is a mechanical (rather than chemical) means of exfoliation. Crystal or crystal-free modalities can be used to treat congested or enlarges pores, acne, fine lines and wrinkles as well as brown spots and hyperpigmentation. Microdermabrasion is most effective when it is supported by a strong home skincare regimen. For best results, microdermabrasion treatments are received every other week for 4-8 weeks. Micro-dermabrasion can be combined with other treatment modalities (ie: chemical peels or photorejuvenation) for added strength and benefit
- Includes soothing mask and head/neck/shoulder massage
- Can be added to any facial treatment
CHEMICAL PEELS
The Naderi Center offers an array of chemical peels to fit every skin type and need. Ingredients such as alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), salicylic acid, resorcinal, retinol, kojic acid and hydroquinone, as well as anti-oxidants and polyphenols are utilized to gently, but effectively remove dull, damaged surface layers to reveal the smooth, radiant, glowing skin that is hidden below! These progressive, in-office “lunch-time” treatments are offered by our Master & Licensed Aestheticians and should accompany a strong at-home skincare regimen.
The peels offered at The Naderi Center are medical grade peels that differ from ones carried by most spas