Acne

how to treat back and body acne

Back and Body acne: How to treat it

DR SABA QUTUB

When we talk about acne, white, little breakouts on the face come to our mind however some people get acne...

Back and Body acne: How to treat it

DR SABA QUTUB

When we talk about acne, white, little breakouts on the face come to our mind however some people get acne beyond the face. Back and body acne is not perpetually visible but can be painful and irritating. But we got you, in this blog, we will cover everything about back and body acne and carve out a skincare routine to deal with it. What is back and body acne? Back and body acne exists as chunky, cysts, whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and pustules, scattered all over the back. They are very similar to face acne. It is revealed that people who encounter face acne also experience body and back acne. It is interconnected. Bacne persists on the shoulders, neck, and backside whereas the body acne goes down to the butt. It gets difficult to treat them as it is strenuous to reach and people aren’t aware that body and back acne are a thing. Back and body acne is also a concern for people who have family history, genetics, and hereditary factors involved. These people are more vulnerable and prone to this condition. Causes of back and body acne The preliminary step towards resolving the issue is to get acquainted with the cause. Body and back acne are caused by some underlying factors which we will be discussing in detail. We are listing down the common causes so you can pinpoint your cause and eliminate it. Hostile exfoliation: The skin is covered with a protective barrier or natural oils, excessive and aggressive exfoliation breaks down that and causes inflammation. Hostile exfoliation swindles the glands into producing more oil-inducing body and back acne. Moist clothes: Post-workout shower is a thing for a reason. Sweaty clothes become a breeding ground for bacteria leading to more body and back acne. Dirty and sweaty clothes clog the pores of the skin. Unclean towels: People are discriminatory when it comes to cleaning used towels. Dirty and damp towels hanging in the bathroom have fungus and bacteria in them. It is one of the most substantial causes of body and back acne. This cause further extends to filthy sheets as well. Sheets collect a lot of dirt, sweat, dampness, bacteria, fungus, etc. Hormonal imbalance: When a person is stressed the body produces androgens. Androgen is a hormone that provokes increment of hair follicles and oil glands. Tight clothing: Many people aren’t aware that tight clothing and accessories also prompt body and back acne. Continual rubbing and friction are prominent triggers. Haircare products: Many haircare products including shampoo, conditioner, hair mask, etc, are known to cause back acne. These products have comedogenic, and oil ingredients. The haircare products in addition to bad washing habits lead to bacne. Medications: Specific medications high in lithium, testosterone, and even birth control medication that has only progesterone may exacerbate body and back acne. Food: A handful of foods are known to cause acne according to dieticians. These foods include sugary drinks, white bread, and potato chips. This specific diet may increase the acne breakout. Types of back and body acne Back and body acne are distinct in kinds. Identifying the type is the first step towards treating bacne. The types include: Blackheads: It is known to be formed when the hair follicle present in the skin gets clogged up due to the production of excessive oil, dead skin cells, or dirt. Blackheads are very visible on the skin as a small bump. When the skin on the bump opens up, due to the oxidisation, the bump turns black. This is the most common form of body and back acne. Whiteheads: Whitehead formation is greatly similar to that of blackheads, the only exception being that the bump on the skin does not open up and there is no oxidisation so, the bump appears clean and white. Pustules: It is a small bump on the skin with a reddened base with fluid or pus. Pustules are commonly found on the body most prominently on the back. They can cause mild pain and irritation. It is also known as pimples. Papules: Papules are remarkably small in size and are also known as acne lesions. Due to overabundant bacteria, dirt, and sweat papules develop. Papules can cause inflammation but are tender. Nodules: This type of body and back acne are little serious. They form below the skin as firm and agonizing and appear in colour above the skin. They can appear all over the body. Nodular acne feels inflamed and can cause scars if untreated. Cysts: It is formed when dead skin cells and bacteria clog the pores of the skin. Cystic acne is formed under the skin and can cause inflammation and swelling. It is also another form of serious acne that people may develop. Difference between face and body acne There are several deviations between facial and body acne (bacne included). Let’s delve into some of them. Cause: The cause of facial acne is predominantly hormonal imbalance whereas body acne is caused by clogged pores due to the collection of dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. The fluctuation in the hormones can cause the issue or may worsen it. On the other hand, as a consequence of wearing sweaty and dirty clothes can cause the bacteria to multiply resulting in back and body acne. Differential skincare regime: Most people tend to associate skin care with the face only leaving behind the rest of the body at the mercy of the other harsh chemicals. Facial acne gets treatment while the body does not. Contrasting skin: The facial skin is more lighter and sensitive. It has more sebaceous glands that produce oils to protect the skin, which is why, acne is more prominent on the face. Whereas, the skin on the rest of the body is thicker and the oil glands are also bigger. The body acne can be treated in a confrontational way as compared to the facial acne. Skincare routine to get rid of body and back acne Cleanse: Cleanser is a notable step in any skincare routine. It gently washes off the dirt, sweat, makeup residue, and dead skin cells. A cleanser rich in Benzoyl peroxide is a must-have to treat body and back acne. It can be used for a long time to prevent future acne. Apply the cleanser and leave it for some time before rinsing off.Apart from benzoyl peroxide cleanser, salicylic acid cleanser also proves to be an amazing replacement. Salicylic acid is known to control the production of unrestrained sebum and unclog the pores. The only demerit of it is that salicylic acid can dry off the skin. Exfoliation: The buildup of excessive sebum combined with dirt and sweat clogs the pores. Gentle exfoliation is an easy way to treat body and back acne. Exfoliation opens up the pores by removing the excess. It must be done regularly as avoiding it may aggravate the production of sebum.We recommend DRSQ’s Body Elixir which gently hydrates and exfoliates the skin. It has niacinamide, salicylic, and glycolic acid as its key ingredients that exfoliate and calm the skin as well as accelerate cellular renewal. Body wash: A back and body acne wash that has AHA exfoliants including glycolic or lactic acid or BHA exfoliants such as salicylic acid works exceptionally well to treat acne. The body wash is an indispensable part of the skincare routine and can not be missed. Look for a product that caters to your need to remedy acne as well as soothe the body. A salicylic body wash can be used which is also enriched in hyaluronic acid to hit two birds with one stone. Retinoid Cream: This is one of the less-known but most effective methods to treat body and back acne. Apply retinoid cream after a shower at night. Retinoid is one of the derivatives of Vitamin A that amplifies the skin's cellular turnover as well as encourages collagen and improves the texture and tone of the skin. It is said to be more beneficial as it penetrates the skin barrier and works from below the skin. The only side effect of retinoid cream is that it makes the skin sun sensitive that’s why we told you to apply it at night. It can be used even after the successful elimination of the acne to elevate the overall texture. Change in daily routine that can prevent body and back acne From teenage to adult life, the body undergoes numerous changes, and developing acne is one of them. Making little changes in your daily lifestyle can make significant improvements. Here are some tips to prevent the formation of acne. Wear loose clothing: We know, we know it is more appropriate to wear clothes of your size but those clothes cling to the body. Sweaty, damp, and dirty clothes become the breeding ground of bacteria so, switch to loose-fitted clothes especially post-workout to let your skin breathe. Opt for fragrance-free products: Fragrant products sometimes carry comedogenic ingredients, increasing acne development. Switch to non-comedogenic and oil-free products. Retain your hairdo: During hot days, it gets difficult to maintain your hair similarly on those days, it is challenging for the body as well as the hair contains natural oils to keep them hydrated, that oil rubs onto the back aggravating the process. Keep the hair off the back while working out and showering. It is also recommended to protect your body from products running down it. Do not pop the pimples: Never touch the sensitive skin as it irritates and transfers the bacteria from the hand to the skin. Popping, poking, and pinching pimples and acne will only worsen the condition. Also, scratching the affected area would scar as well. Keep the hands as far away as possible. Bathe frequently: At the end of a tiring day, a shower is necessary to prevent the buildup from collecting at a place. If extremely exhausted, at least put on fresh clothes and wipe the body with a cleansing wipe. Use SPF: Applying sun protection whether indoors or outdoors is indispensable. Sunscreen minimises the chance of worsening the acne condition. It is recommended to use up to SPF 30 at most. Cleansing Brush: The most genuine problem is how to reach the back where the acne is present. It is difficult just by using the hands so, why not try a cleaning brush which will reach places that you can not easily. Back Facial: As much we love to take care of our face, it is important to invest in a good back facial. The experts at the spa know how to give a rejuvenating back facial. Pimple patch: This is the easiest and quickest way to treat the body and back acne. If there is not enough time to heal the acne slowly, try the pimple patches. It is a great way to speed up the process of healing. Wrap-Up Body and back acne is a painful and humiliating condition. Having small, red, inflamed, and irritating acne all over or partially over the body requires human intervention. Back and body acne can be prevented through changes in lifestyle, diet, and skincare routine. Hope this blog will help you identify your type and cause of acne and how to manage it. If the condition persists, it is advised to visit the medical practitioner.

Sebum and Its Role in Acne Production

Sebum and Its Role in the Acne Development

DR SABA QUTUB

If your face exhibits a heightened sheen on the skin within a few hours of washing and cleansing it, it...

Sebum and Its Role in the Acne Development

DR SABA QUTUB

If your face exhibits a heightened sheen on the skin within a few hours of washing and cleansing it, it may be due to a crucial but often misunderstood substance called sebum. Sebum, produced by your skin’s cells, gets blended with the small particles in the air, sweat, and dead skin cells to give that shiny lustre to your skin’s surface. Sebum is misperceived and a proven good substance for your skin only if produced in adequate amounts. The excess production leads to oily and can cause acne. In this blog, we will explore what you need to know about sebum and how it affects acne. It’s important to address the underlying reason or you can end up worsening your skin condition. What is Sebum? Sebum is an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands of the skin, and essential for the protection of the skin’s surface. These glands are microscopic and develop on or near hair follicles in the dermis (the second layer of the skin) in thousands of numbers mostly on the face. Image Source Coming to its composition, sebum is 57% triglycerides, 25% wax monoesters, 13% squalene, 3% cholesterol esters, and 2% cholesterol. Primarily they appear on your face and scalp, majorly everywhere where the hair follicles exist, except for the soles and palms, and protect you against bacteria, external aggressors, including ultraviolet rays, and other probable infections. Think of it as the natural oil and protective barrier of the skin as it reduces water loss and increases moisture. Sebum has been misunderstood as only an acne-causing substance, but it does much more than you require to know. Why Is Sebum Important? Sebaceous glands ensure that your skin is appropriately moisturised hence, keep producing sebum. It’s lubricating, and without enough sebum, your skin may become very rough, dry, or flaky. Sebum does not let irritants enter the skin easily and makes it stronger. It possesses fatty acids with antibacterial properties to help protect the skin from infections. A study reveals that sebum lubricates and provides the skin against friction. We can definitely consider sebum critical to the overall skin’s health if produced in the right quantity. It prevents water loss and provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Some skin experts even claim that sebum can also provide strong protection against fungal infections on the skin. How does it happen? Because sebum secretion creates an acidic film on the skin’s surface with a pH of about 4.5 to 6.0. This pH level is ideal to offer defence against bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms. Surprisingly, dermatologists even say that it provides protection against the UVA rays of the sun. It happens due to one of the most important components called Squalene. What are Sebaceous Filaments? Sebaceous filaments are the healthy elements of your skin, and thread-like outgrowths or projections lining your sebaceous glands. They are not contagious at all and basically help the movement of oil from the glands toward your skin’s surface.  These filaments may become more remarkable when the skin produces a lot of sebum. Image Source Sebaceous filaments may look a lot similar to the blackheads but they not certainly not the same. Unlike blackheads, sebaceous glands are not the type of acne or have any plugs. Moreover, you can find sebaceous filaments like dark spots and flat, but they also appear grey or brown in colour. Each of us has sebaceous filaments, the only difference occurs in their appearance. Typically, they tend to get produced more around your nose and forehead. But obviously, these are not restricted to these areas of your body. They appear on the chest, arms, breasts, etc, too. What Affects Sebum Overproduction? Overproduction of sebum may lead to underlying skin conditions and acne. But what are the causes behind this? Let’s check out the major causes leading to the excessive production of sebum in your body. Environmental Factors: The summer season is not quite friendly with the sebum. Even humid climates also affect the overregulation of sebum, on your skin. Medicines: If you are taking any specific medication, including birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy might be encouraging your sebaceous glands to secrete more and more sebum increasing grease on the skin. Race Type: Black people may have more tendencies to bear sebum as compared to other races. Gender: The risk factor for oily skin may increase in males comparatively in females. Hormones: Some health conditions can increase androgens further elevating the sebum production in the body. Particular types of disorders, including testicular and ovarian may also contribute. Diet: Your food is critical to the skin’s health, including sebum overproduction. Refined carbohydrates must be avoided. Genetics: If you get overproduction of sebum passed through your genes, there’s not much you can do about it. Unfortunately! How Does Sebum Cause Acne? Sebum is one of the major contributors to acne. When the sebaceous glands produce a lot of sebum, it gets mixed with the dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria too, on the skin to clog pores.  When the sebum gets combined with the dead skin cells, it forms a sticky plug that blocks the opening of the hair follicle on the skin. So sebum can be responsible for producing any kind of acne, including blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, etc. How to Reduce Sebum Production? Reducing sebum levels is not an overnight task, however, you can be consistent and expect the results. Here are a few tips that might help you get non-greasy skin; Never sleep with your makeup on: You put a lot of time into putting your makeup on, just spend even less time taking it off. Otherwise, it can contribute to the oil production on your skin’s surface. Watch what you eat: Diet can have a direct impact on your face, so it’s highly imperative to know what you are eating. Adopt healthy eating habits, and avoid high-cholesterol-rich foods and carbohydrates. Keep your face clean: It is a temporary solution to oily skin, but definitely works. Don’t forget to use a gentle cleanser only. Be happy: You should never be ignorant of your mental health conditions. It reflects on your hormones, skin, and overall well-being. Try to be calm and feel good Last, but not least, you must stick with a consistent and smooth skincare routine to avoid overproduction of sebum on your face and body. Skincare Routine to Combat Sebum Call it oil, sebum, or grease, but the required skincare routine remains the same. Step 1: Cleanse your skin with a gentle cleanser Try Clarifying Cleanser from DRSQ’s wide range of skincare products. It is a detoxifying acne wash that comes with AHA, activated charcoal, and tea tree oil to help you get rid of your acne while cleaning your pores thoroughly. Step 2: Apply a serum Feel refreshed and soothed with DRSQ’s Acne Clear serum. It has vitamin A, vitamin B3, and AHA to restore radiance to your skin white promoting the oil and acne-free skin simultaneously. Step 3: Break the myth and moisturise It’s a common myth that oily skin doesn’t need moisture, but that’s not true. You must hydrate your skin with a suitable moisturiser so that your sebaceous glands don't secrete excess oil. DRSQ has a wide range of moisturisers, you can choose accordingly. Conclusion Sebum is a natural component of your skin secreted by the sebaceous glands and is necessary. They help the skin to retain moisture loss and provide protection from microbial and other fungal infections. But the overproduction might be frustrating as it gives you an oily and greasy appearance naturally. There are tips and tactics to overcome excessive sebum production and you can always follow a skincare routine mentioned above religiously to combat oily and acne-prone skin. Happy skincare!

Acne Hyperpigmentation

Post Acne Hyperpigmentation: Causes & Treatment

DR SABA QUTUB

According to a study, post-acne hyperpigmentation can occur even in people with mild to moderate acne with less inflammatory conditions....

Post Acne Hyperpigmentation: Causes & Treatment

DR SABA QUTUB

According to a study, post-acne hyperpigmentation can occur even in people with mild to moderate acne with less inflammatory conditions. The same study revealed that hyperpigmentation after acne is a frequent and important complication. Acne spots can fade over time but can remain in some cases too. While managing acne hyperpigmentation can be rigorous and frustrating, it can help in diminishing the acne marks more rapidly if done in the appropriate way. This blog will explore post acne hyperpigmentation, its causes, and effective management. What Is Acne Hyperpigmentation? Acne Hyperpigmentation refers to the dark patch or a dark spot that comes into view after the pimple disappears. It is an area marked by a darker complexion. These areas can be restricted to small regions, or sometimes spread widely. Skins with darker tones might witness them more commonly while it can happen to anyone regardless of the complexion. The acne that causes hyperpigmentation differs from other forms. It has a distinct presentation. They appear as patches or the typical dark spots on the skin, and not as raised pimples or inflamed lesions called comedones. Sometimes, it can manifest on your skin as a freckle. It occurs commonly in populations from Pacific Islanders to African Americans. While native Americans, Hispanics, and Middle Eastern descendants are not been able to escape from it either. Let’s check out the deep-rooted causes of acne hyperpigmentation! Click to learn more about acne types and ways to recognise them. What Causes Acne Hyperpigmentation? Dark spots may appear followed by acne as a result of melanin, the pigment responsible for giving the skin its colour. Spots tend to appear more when a pimple is gone due to this extra-produced melanin at a particular patch or a spot. It can be dark brown to lighter in shade. What causes this increased melanin production? There are multiple factors to blame, including sun exposure (which can expand its appearance on the skin), genetics, medications, or simple hormones. Moreover, various immune and inflammatory factors have caused the surplus production of melanin pigment. Some of the possible factors are: Chemokines Reactive oxygen species Prostanoids Cytokines Several studies have come, but nothing has explained the accurate mechanism behind the overproduction of melanin. There are hyperpigmentation acne lesions that occur in the dermis layer of the skin and may appear blue-grey with the potential of staying longer than you think. Acne hyperpigmentation varies in intensity, and dermatologists are uncertain about their exact causes. We need extensive research and studies to determine those underlying causes. How Does Acne Lead to Hyperpigmentation? You must have heard your well-wishers asking you not to pop your pimples because of the scarring. But there is no absolute necessity that refraining from bursting or popping a pimple will surely save you from getting that unwanted hyperpigmented area on your skin. So what is the specific reason behind the phenomena of acne leading to hyperpigmentation? We can blame the inflammatory repair response of the skin. Clogged pores get attacked and infected by the bacteria resulting in inflammation. A pimple receives formed. This inflammation increases the production of melanin that further creating persistent marks. These marks can stay and irritate beyond the duration of breakouts. This is what we call PIH or post-inflammatory inflammation. Here’s a pro tip: Do not pick your acne. Acne Hyperpigmentation Treatment Leaving acne hyperpigmentation is not harmful to your skin, but surely to your self-esteem. Addressing this skin concern can surely contribute to an improved appearance leading to self-confidence. Dermatologists hold the belief that early treatment of acne may aid the procedure of acne fading and leave less room for associated marks. The very first step toward treating your acne hyperpigmentation is knowing the cause. After determining the deep-rooted cause, you can contribute a lot to managing your acne. Some instances of hyperpigmentation acne are deeply entrenched in the dermis and may require extended duration to fade away, or in worst cases, they may choose to stay permanently. Ensure to understand that fading takes time, and may take up to a year. It’s not an overnight process. Navigating tons of home remedies, commercials, and expert recommendations and choosing an effective treatment can be challenging. Consulting your dermatologist is always recommended and is a smart move. Here are a few avenues to explore: Home-Based Alternatives While you want to try treating your acne hyperpigmentation at home, give cosmetic camouflage a hit. You can simply apply a concealer or contour the dark spots. This method is short-term yet impactful. It’s absolutely fine if you don’t want to go through the medical treatment. You need to give careful consideration and attention to detail while selecting any concealer for your skin. Go for the non-comedogenic, non-greasy, and waterproof concealer. Moreover, look for the long-lasting one. Avoid skincare or make-up products that can give rise to your acne. Home remedies can offer assistance to acne-prone skin and post-acne-hyperpigmentation, it’s crucial to note that but might take a considerable span to show results. Also, before attempting any home remedy, consulting an expert is a must, or it can even exacerbate your condition. Sun Protection Ultraviolet rays pose crucial risks to your skin and may cause some serious detrimental effects. Hyperpigmentation is among them. If your skin is acne-prone or already hyperpigmented, sun exposure can even worsen the condition. Try limiting your sun exposure duration, and always wear your SPF with a minimum limit of 30 whether it is windy, cloudy, or rainy outside. Donning covered clothes can additionally protect your skin. Pay more attention to areas prone to sunburn, and reapply after every two hours. Make a wise selection of your sunscreen addressing your acne-prone skin condition and hyperpigmentation.  Take note: Sunscreen should be applied at least 20 minutes before leaving the home. Prescribed Ingredients The following ingredients may help in treating your post-acne hyperpigmentation: Azelaic Acid Kojic Acid Hydroquinone Retinoic Acid Glycolic Acid According to a research, Retinoic acids have the potential to relieve post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and acne scars. These ingredients take appropriate inactions for your skin concern, from lighting your dark spots to slowing down the overproduction of melanin.  Recommended Skincare Routine  A consistent and diligent skincare routine may help you to combat acne effectively and associated hyperpigmentation as well. Ensure to adhere to the below-mentioned steps: Step 1: Cleanse Start with the facial cleanser. You can opt for the DRSQ’s Clarifying Cleanser. It is detoxifying wash with activated charcoal to deeply cleanse your pores. The effective combination of AHA + BHA and hydrating essential oils thoroughly purifies the dirt and oil without impairing the sensitive barrier of your skin. Take 2-3 pumps and mix with water to make a lather. Apply evenly and rinse. Step 2: Apply a Serum Serums can directly target your acne and halt the progression of hyperpigmentation. Try out DRSQ’s Skin Bright serum. This serum has tetrapeptide 30 to act upon hyperchromatic spots and diminish them, blemish your hyperpigmentation and promote an even skin tone. Use it as your day serum after the cleaner. Moreover, you can continue with DRSQ’s Repair serum at night. This exfoliating super serum comes with AHA BHA, biomimetic peptide, and barrier-repairing botanicals to work on breakout and hyperpigmentation. Take 2-3 pumps and apply well at night daily after cleansing your skin. Step 3: Moisturise Moisturisers are crucial supportive elements in your acne treatment regimen, as they can form a protective barrier without clogging pores. DRSQ’s Hydracalm moisturiser is infused with hyaluronic acid. It reduces sensitivity by boosting the skin’s resistance to inflammatory free radical aggressors. Take 2-3 pea-sized amounts in the morning, and can be applied in the nighttime as well. What You Should Know Usually, hyperpigmentation is not indicative of any serious medical condition. Specifically, post acne-hyperpigmentation is considered harmless to your skin, and overall well-being. But a few psychological effects can be witnessed in some cases, which might be associated with appearance. Sometimes, the dark spots may fade away naturally without undergoing any treatment plan, taking a few months or years. The Endnote Hyperpigmentation is common but not normal. Post-acne hyperpigmentation occurs on the skin after the disappearance of pimples. They occur as dark spots regardless of skin tone but can be more frequent in dark-toned people. However, the complete disappearance of acne hyperpigmentation may or may be achieved. Consulting your dermatologist is highly recommended to understand the realistic expectations regarding the treatment.

Acne Identification

Exploring the various acne forms and how to rec...

DR SABA QUTUB

Around 90% of adolescents between 16 to 18 struggle with acne in Australia. Although prevalent and natural, acne can negatively...

Exploring the various acne forms and how to rec...

DR SABA QUTUB

Around 90% of adolescents between 16 to 18 struggle with acne in Australia. Although prevalent and natural, acne can negatively impact self-esteem further leading to shrinking confidence. Acne impacts the perception of your physical appearance and your additional state, increasing the likelihood of editing photos on social media. The good news is treating acne is pretty straightforward! But before you lump layers of cream or serum, you must identify the type of acne, whether inflammatory or non-inflammatory. Since each type of acne has a distinct appearance with varying symptoms and remedies, identifying them can be tricky. To help you out, we've created a comprehensive guide to pinpointing the subtypes of acne and how to get rid of them. Identifying Your Non-Inflammatory Acne Non-inflammatory acne includes surface-level blemishes that don't cause swelling or redness on your skin. This acne doesn't cause tenderness or discomfort because the pore stays intact. Therefore, non-inflammatory acne responds comparatively well to over-the-counter treatments. Let's dive into its subtypes: Blackheads Blackheads are blemishes easily identified by their small, dot-like, and black appearance. These acquire the 'black' colour due to the oxidation of the pores exposed to the air. In dermatology, blackheads are called 'open comedones.' The blemishes are 'open' because the core lacks the usual skin covering despite the sebum and dead cells clogging the pore. Ordinary, blackheads affect individuals with enlarged pores, excess sebum, hormonal changes, bacteria, dead skin cells, and ingrown hairs. The optimal approach to combat blackheads is to use a salicylic or azelaic acid cleanser and serum or seek an oil-free moisturiser. Whiteheads The distinct classification of mild acne, whiteheads form pores when clogged by dead skin cells and sebum. The difference lies in the fact that this pore possesses a thin layer of skin, resulting in a characteristic white bump surrounded by a red halo or red ring. Whiteheads don’t lead to scarring, but the skin surrounding the blemish may appear tight. It is a pervasive skin condition resulting from dead skin cells, excess sebum production, and bacteria. But because the pores are closed, it's challenging to treat. However, using adapalene, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid alongside washing your face with lukewarm water and mild soap can alleviate their appearance. Identifying Your Inflammatory Acne Inflammatory acne refers to deep-seated, red, and swollen pimples. These tend to occur due to dead skin cells and bacteria that cause clogging or infections. Unlike its counterpart, inflammatory acne can cause complications like scarring and pitting. On a positive note, once you can identify your skin condition, it’s manageable to treat it. Cysts Due to severe bacterial infections, cysts are identified as the largest form of acne These create a painful, red or white lump deep within the skin's surface and can cause red marks or scarring. The primary cause of cysts is bacteria, while they may also develop due to clogging by bacteria, sebum, and dead skin cells. Moreover, oily skin is the breeding ground for bacterial growth, which is why it occurs in individuals with oily/combination skin or hormonal imbalances. Since cysts are severe, it's best to leave the treatment to dermatologists and doctors, who may prescribe medicines or recommend surgical removal. Nodules Nodules are also a severe type of inflammatory acne, distinguished by their big size, rugged appearance, and lack of soreness. These develop when clogged and infected pores endure irritation and occur deep within the skin. Moreover, nodules can be painful and lead to scarring and dark spots. Since nodules are severe and deep under the skin, you can't treat them with home remedies. Instead, your doctor or dermatologist may prescribe oral medication to prevent the growth of modules by minimising the pores. Papules Differing from nodules, papules are a moderate acne type occurring when bacteria reach oil or dead skin under the skin's surface. These elements lead to the breakdown of walls around pores and are sensitive to touch. Papules appear solid, raised, pink, or red, and the skin around them becomes inflamed. But the pores of this acne lack a visible centre and pus. The best way to treat this blemish is to use a mild face wash, gentle lotions and makeup, and skincare products formulated for sensitive skin. Moreover, you can add benzyl peroxide to your skincare routine to combat mild to severe acne. Pustules What's the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word pimple? What you're picturing is a pustule. This acne appears as larger, tender bumps with defined circular centres similar to whiteheads. But unlike whiteheads, these have a red ring around the white or yellow head of the pore and contain yellowish-white pus due to bacterial infection. In addition, these are painful to touch and look more inflamed than a whitehead. While it's tempting to pop them, pustules can sometimes leave scars. So, you can try using benzyl peroxide or salicylic acid to treat them. Your doctor may also recommend antibiotics to soothe acne. Journey to Healing: Discovering the Acne Treatment? Coping with acne, regardless of its type can be a challenging ordeal. But with a robust preventive skincare routine, you can target the root cause of your acne and prevent them. Here are some effective approaches to eradicate acne: Gently cleanse your face with a gel cleanser targeted for sensitive and oily skin. Ensure you select one that does not disrupt your skin's pH balance. You can try DRSQ’s Clarifying Cleanser to clean your pores deeply. Massage several drops of salicylic acid serum to unclog pores and combat imperfections. You can give Acne Clear serum a shot. It comes with a 0.5% Retinaldehyde. Follow up using an anti-acne moisturiser rich in vitamin C or niacinamide. That way, you can alleviate the appearance of dark marks. Use a face sunscreen with an SPF of 50+ to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. The Bottom Line Battling acne can be an emotional experience, but distinguishing the type of acne can help you take the first step towards combating it. We recommend discussing with your dermatologist to diagnose the blemishes on your skin. Your dermatologist might offer expert advice on which ingredients to use and avoid. In moderate to severe cases, they may prescribe over-the-counter medications or surgery. Take the right step to acne treatment with the acne starter kit, including cleanser, serum, and moisturiser.

Get Rid of Acne Effectively

Combat Acne Through The Effective Skincare Routine

DR SABA QUTUB

While most commonly teenagers are affected by acne, anyone is prone irrespective of age, skin colour, gender, and environmental conditions....

Combat Acne Through The Effective Skincare Routine

DR SABA QUTUB

While most commonly teenagers are affected by acne, anyone is prone irrespective of age, skin colour, gender, and environmental conditions. It is frustrating! And, you want to get rid of it as soon as possible. But you must know there is no one-size-fits-all treatment plan for acne. You need to be more aware and attentive to the information resource.Having a persistent nature, you may find it unmanageable at times. So, how to get rid of acne? Follow this guide to fight back!Let’s start with knowing acne and its deep root causes. What is Acne? Medically called acne vulgaris, it is an inflammatory disorder of the skin. Oil, dead skin, and bacteria attack and clog your pores resulting in acne leading to mild to severe breakouts. You can find them appearing, almost everywhere, from face to shoulder, and even at your upper back, where oil glands occur.The skin condition is widespread, and if you are facing it, you should keep calm, and tackle it smartly with the right skincare routine. Reasons That Cause Acne To be said in simple terms - it is clogged pores.Now, what causes pores to get clogged? Dead skin cells Sebum Propionibacterium acnes - An acne-causing bacteria Clogged pores cause acne leading to inflammation and pain. Redness is quite common.Let us understand it more!The androgen hormones become active during puberty responsible for releasing excess oil production, causing pores to get blocked, and causing skin breakouts. Bacteria and dead skin add to the condition.They become even worse during your periods due to hormonal imbalances, which is exacerbated in conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome.Corticosteroid drugs, certain hormonal medications and anticonvulsants can also trigger acne formation.Coming to foods, ones with a high glycemic index and diet high in dairy can cause acne too.Other acne-causing factors include pollution, humidity, stress, and genetics that give rise to acne. Other Crucial Causes In addition to what we have discussed above, there are some avoidable triggers inducing acne conditions on your skin. Using oily skincare products High-stress levels Humid environmental conditions and air-polluted areas Touching your acne too often Skin-tight clothes which can increase sweating Note: Please note that causes of acne can differ from person to person, and even exist in a combination of factors to affect a human. Types of Acne Broadly divided into inflammatory and non-inflammatory; let’s dive deeper into detail. Inflammatory The acne type occurs due to inflamed hair follicles causing tenderness, redness, swelling, and pain.Inflammatory acne is assorted into the following types: Papules: Usually tender to human touch, these are red bumps, small in size. Pustules: These contain pus, having a yellow or white center. Cysts: Filled with pus, relatively larger in size, and can be much more painful. Nodules: Smaller and less painful than cysts and occur deep under your skin can be skin coloured or even typically red. Non-Inflammatory Also known as comedones, it is born on your skin when oil and dead skin clog hair follicles without any inflammation. Less pain! Blackheads: Dead skin and oil become oxidized giving a dark appearance. Whiteheads: Generally your flesh-coloured or white and present as raised bumps. Acne requires different treatment approaches from case to case. A medical professional's advice is recommended, and an accurate diagnosis plan is needed for a treatment plan.Medical treatment for acne Mild acne  - Topical anti-acne agents, such as benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, and tretinoin or adapalene gel.  - Low-dose combined oral contraceptive  - Antiseptic or keratolytic washes containing salicylic acid  - Light/laser therapyModerate to Sever acne  - Oral Antibiotics such as Doxycycline & Eryhtromycin  - Antiandrogen therapy with cyproterone acetate + ethinylestradiol or spironolactone  - Oral Isotretinoin A Recommended Skincare Routine to combat Acne Apart from the above mentioned medical treatment, the right skincare routine plays an important role in reducing and preventing acne. In case you are experiencing inflammation, acne and breakout, the below-mentioned skincare routine may be of great help.For Day Start with the cleanser: Cleansing makes your way to remove excess dirt, dead skin cells, and oil from the surface of your skin. The most crucial part is - Choose the suitable cleanser.You can try a Clarifying Cleanser by DRSQ. It has activated charcoal complex to deeply cleanse your pores and help fight breakouts. Its effective combination of AHA+BHA, Vitamin B5, tea-tree oil, aloe vera and natural anti-bacterials eliminates congestion, prevents bacteria & clears inflammationTake couple of pumps and using your fingertips massage it evenly on the face, behind the ears, and the neck. Rinse it off with lukewarm water or use a soft washcloth. Scrubbing is not recommended while applying and don’t go rough. Be gentle! Tip: Don’t over-cleanse as that can cause further irritation and scrap out the protective barrier of the skin. Instead you can do double cleansing. Massage the cleanser and wash off once and then reapply and rinse off again.  Apply a Day Serum This is your chance to move ahead with your powerful skincare routine. After using the cleanser, use a dry towel to pat your skin dry and apply your day serum smoothly on your affected area.Radiance 3D has an infusion of 10% niacinamide and Hyaluronic acid providing anti-inflammatory benefits and promoting skin clarity.Experts say it may take around six weeks to work, you need to be consistent as well as patient. Even after that duration, if you see no results, consult your medical professional for the best advice. Move Ahead With The Moisturiser You don’t need a moisturiser for oily skin - the biggest myth ever! Moisturisation is a necessity irrespective of your skin type. But it’s a critical step. What you can do is choose a non-greasy moisturiser if you have oily skin. They create a balance for the oil on the skin’s surface. To go lighter in weight, you can opt for gels and lotions in place of creams. DRSQ’s Hydracalm is all set to re-organise your hydration levels and balance skin oil.For NightYou follow similar three steps as day time routine with a different serum, that is, a night serum. Cleanse your face with Clarifying cleanser and use Hydracalm moisturiser after the Night serum. But NIGHT SERUM is the Key!!!!For the night routine, introduce a high potency Vitamin A ( retinaldehyde) serum to you skin care. Vitamin A is one of the key ingredients in clearing the acne and preventing them from recurring. Depending on your previous Vitamin A use, you can choose from Level 1 (Starter A) , Level 2 (Miracle Pro Vitamin) or Level 3 ( Advance Vitamin A) serum. If using for the first time, slowly introduce vitamin A in your skin routine. Vitamin A can initially have an inflammatory response and it can take a few days for skin to get used to it. You can start with applying the vitamin A serum all over your face and neck at night, leaving it for an hour and then washing it off. Repeat this step till your skin is having no redness or irritation with hourly application. Then increase the duration to 2 hours before washing it off. Once your skin has tolerated the 2 hourly application, start leaving it overnight. Similarly, you can start with Level 1 vitamin A serum and work up the ladder right upto Level 3 vitamin A serumAdding the Eye Restore serum to your day and night skincare routine can target wrinkle rejuvenation and puffiness around the eyes. Close-Up Consistency is the key. You won’t be seeing the overnight results. It’s skin!A breakout-prone skin can be distressing and disheartening but beginning with DRSQ’s anti-acne skincare regime will help reduce and prevent acne.Good luck with your acne skincare!