Teens and young adults are on my mind a lot these days. Do I have any? Not yet. I do have 2 young girls but they are more into Peppa Pig then Pimple popping at the moment.
I do however have many young people, both girls and boys come to see me in the salon with skin worries.
The main call for concern is acne. Close to 85% of people will experience some form of acne in their lifetime. When people think of acne they think of teenagers but in fact acne can affect people at any age.
For Teenagers acne can be a traumatic experience and can have life long affects on their self esteem. When managed correctly things like scaring and aggressive break outs can be avoided.
What is acne?
Acne is a inflammatory lesion of the sebaceous glands.These glands are found in every pore and produce oil (sebum) which is essential for the skin.
As the ducts of these glands become blocked with oil, blackheads and whiteheads appear. They can become infected with bacteria causing deeper lumps and what we know as pimples. Cysts and and nodules form also and can cause the skin to become very read and sensitive.
Due to the increase of the male hormone Androgen teens have a higher risk of getting acne. Ultimately there are three factors that contribute to acne.
Oil - When there is an over production of oil it fills the sebaceous duct. All this extra oil is like a feast for bacteria.
Enclosure - The thickening of the wall of the duct and the formation of a plug prevents oil from escaping on to the surface of the skin.
Bacteria - A bacteria called P.Acnes is the cause of acne vulgaris, the most common type of acne.
What can be done?
Due to these three factors we can use an approach that tackles each one. We obviously need oil but we can control the congestion and sebum levels whilst maintaining the skin moisture and protective barrier.
In salon Facials and correct routine at home with skincare products will help.
We can practice better hygiene habits at home and in schools to minimize bacteria.
Clean face cloth, daily.
Clean towels and pillowcases
Hair off face
Correct hand-washing
Clean make up brushes
Don't share make up or brushes
Clean gym gear
Sanitize sports wear like chin straps and helmets
Avoid touching the face with hands
Avoid hair products falling an to the face whilst showering.
Use effective, gentle home care products that do not strip the skin, cause irritation and will prevent future and more aggressive breakout.
Educate our teens on a healthy diet and support them at home in keeping to these new routines.
Reduce Sugar intake, sugar causes inflammation and acne just loves it.
Eat healthy fats, oily fish, nuts, fruit and veg. Supplements are also good but do not replace a healthy diet.
Many believe that the Pill is a way to get rid of acne and is prescribed by many doctors. This in fact, does not treat the acne but it has an effect on the hormones. It changes the levels of certain hormones and in some way forcing the body into a menopausal state. This may in short term decrease the acne but it is only on pause, once the medication is stopped the acne will return . This is often the reason for adult and gestational acne. My advice would be to tackle the problem without the use of the pill.
There are of course times when medical attention is needed, especially if the bacteria has taken over and there is infection in the skin. Also for cystic acne where a dermatologist will prescribe stronger medication.
In this case the beauty therapist will refer to your G.P. or Dermatologist.
Best Facials: Hydra Medic Facial / Clinical Facial
Best Home care: Hydra Medic Collection
For more information please contact iguazubeautytherapy@gmail.com
Book online or by phone.