Four steps you can take to care for acne-prone skin

Whether blackheads, whiteheads, pimples or cysts, acne can be an uncomfortable skin condition. Here’s what your acne skincare regimen should include.

It’s akin to the worst kind of house guest – showing up with no invitation, at the drop of a hat, and usually at the most inconvenient time. And then outstaying its welcome!

Yes, pimples can be frustrating – but there are ways to combat them.

What is acne?

Acne is an extremely common skin condition. Suffered by both sexes, it can be found anywhere on the body, although more usually on the face, neck, back, chest and shoulders.

Research shows¹ around 85 per cent of people will be affected at some stage of their lives, suffering anything from pimples and blackheads to inflamed and painful, cyst-like breakouts.

More than just skin deep

Research² has found acne can take a toll on self-image, self-esteem and quality of life, particularly among teens.

Severe acne can cause scarring and studies³ show that usually, the worse the acne, the worse the consequences, with social isolation and even depression and psychological issues affecting some sufferers.

Four things you can do to help care for acne-prone skin

As well as finding a product to help treat your spots, your acne skincare⁴ routine should include a mild cleanser and a moisturiser with a high-sun protection factor (SPF).

Azclear Action is a range of products designed to help manage acne-prone skin, while soothing and hydrating at the same time.

Step 1: Cleanse

Start your skincare routine with a cleanser specifically developed for acne-prone skin to help clear away dirt, oil and bacteria.

Azclear Action Foaming Wash is a gentle foaming cleanser that helps control pimples and acne on the face, back and abdomen, and contains glycerin to help leave skin soft and smooth without drying.

Wash hands, then wet skin and gently massage into affected areas before rinsing off and patting dry. Use it twice daily – in the morning and at night.

Step 2: Treat

Then it’s time to attack the problem.

Azclear Action Medicated Lotion is a fragrance-free, oil-free, antibacterial lotion containing 20% w/w Azelaic Acid. It attacks acne by fighting bacteria, unblocking the oil ducts and drying up spots.

Simply apply a small amount directly on to affected skin after cleansing.

(Remember: Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, worsen, or change unexpectedly, talk to your health professional.)

Step 3: Soothe

Soothing and hydrating your skin after treating the affected area is also important.

Use a product that delivers a hydrating boost to help refresh and tone the skin. Look for ingredients like Avemide 15™ to help soothe the skin, and menthol and witch hazel water to cool, tone.

Step 4: Hydrate and protect

After all of that work, the last step is to gently moisturise.

Use a light-weight, oil-free day moisturiser with SPF to help protect the skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Look for ingredients to help care for skin, including hydrating vitamin B3 (niacinamide).

So there you have it – 4 things you can do to help say sayonara to your unwanted house guest!

(Remember: Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear to further reduce risk. Frequent re-application is required.)

This post is brought to you by the Azclear Action range.

[References]

1. Epidemiology of acne vulgaris. Darren D Lynn, Tamara Umari, Cory A Dunnick, Robert P Dellaville. Adolescent Health Medicine and Therapeutics 2016; 7: 13–25

2. Acne in Adolescents: Quality of life, self-esteem, mood, and psychological disorders.

   Lauren K Dunn PhD, Jenna L O’Neill MD, Steven R Feldman MD PhD. Dermatology Online Journal 17 (1): 1

3. Quality of life and acne in Scottish adolescent schoolchildren: use of the Children’s Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI) and the Cardiff Acne Disability Index (CADI). Walker N, Lewis-Jones MS. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Verenreology 2006 Jan; 20 (10): 45-50

4. http://www.mingaramed.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Acne.pdf