Simply put, acne-prone skin is referred to as skin that is more susceptible to breakouts and blemishes. Acne is one of the most prevalent skin conditions, affecting more than 85% of teenagers (James, 2005). It typically starts at puberty and resolves slowly as the person reaches 20, although some people continue to have acne into their 40s and 50s (Kraning, 1979). However, not everyone with acne-prone skin has the same type of acne. Not to get overly complicated, but there are multiple types of acne to understand which we will get to another time. This time, we just want to help you when you’re at the drug store looking at all the products lined up, looking the same!!!
INGREDIENTS TO LOOK FOR
Having acne prone skin can make shopping for skincare difficult, but it doesn’t have to be! That’s what we’re here for. We compiled a list of key ingredients to consider when forming a good skincare routine, and the ones that stand out the most are:
1. Lactobacillus Ferment: Many research studies have linked inflammatory skin diseases with an imbalanced gut microbiome. Topical probiotics like this one have demonstrated beneficial effects for treating acne (Habeebuddin et. al, and Huey-Chun et. al).
2. Salicylic acid: A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) you definitely know and love (L. Rhein et. al). It has been found to penetrate into the pores and dissolve excess sebum (oil) and other debris that clogs them (Jin Lu et. al).
3. Retinol: The famous derivative of vitamin A that exfoliates and increases cell turnover. It accelerates the shedding of dead skin cells, preventing them from clogging pores and leading to the formation of comedones (Leyden).
4. Antimicrobial/antiseptic extracts: When we say antimicrobial extracts, we mean extracts like Licorice Root, which has antimicrobial properties and aids in calming and balancing the skin (Ribeiro et. al).
5. Azelaic acid at <10%: a dicarboxylic acid that helps to promote exfoliation by breaking down the protein bonds that hold dead skin cells together, plus helps with sebum regulation (Fitton et. al).
6. Accessible OTC actives like Benzoyl peroxide or tretinoin: Since acne care falls into the drug category, it can be hard to access treatment. OTC acne products can help with this! Benzoyl peroxide is a potent topical medication that effectively kills Propionibacterium acnes bacteria, which plays a key role in the development of acne (Sagransky et. al). Similarly, tretinoin, another topical retinoid derived from vitamin A, is commonly used to increase cell turnover (Schmidt et. al).
We are so excited to be able to offer our MULTI Patch 2.0 as something you can try on your acne! As the first hydrocolloid patch on the market with lactobacillus ferment and peppermint, we can’t wait for you to enjoy the picking prevention and cooling relief! Here is our journal on what products we like to pair the MULTI Patch with.
Written by Alayna Bouie, BSPS, MSPS, founder of Shereen Cosmetics
Find her work here: Alayna Bouie, Shereen Cosmetics
DISCLAIMER: THIS POST DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AS MEDICAL ADVICE. THIS POST IS NOT MEANT TO TREAT, CURE, PREVENT, OR DIAGNOSE CONDITIONS OR DISEASES; AND IS MEANT FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES. AS ALWAYS, PLEASE CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRYING ANY NEW TREATMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS.
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Kraning, K. K., and G. F. Odland. "Prevalence, morbidity, and cost of dermatological diseases." J Invest dermatol 73.5 Pt 2 (1979): 395-401.
James, William D. "A 17-year-old boy with a six-month history of acne presents for initial evaluation and treatment. Physical examination reveals closed and open comedones and a large num-ber of erythematous papules and pustules (50 or more) of the face and upper trunk. How should he be treated?." N Engl J Med 352 (2005): 1463-72.