Articles

Homecare Regimen

Do: Use products consistently. In order for results to be seen, clients need to use their homecare regimen on a consistent basis. Furthermore, they should only use the products as they have been instructed to by their skin care professional. If the client uses products on a regular basis, they should expect to see results in about four to six weeks.

Don't: Skip the SPF. Sunscreen is often seen as a product that is only needed when going to the beach or when spending time outdoors. Clients, however, can recieve sun damage during their daily commute in the car and even while inside.

Teen Acne

• • Treatment starts with proper cleansing. Avoid over-drying the skin and mechanical scrubs. A cleanser with gentle fruit acids is a good option as the pH will be acidic, supporting the acid mantle and barrier defense system.

  • Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid, works deep in the sebaceous gland to kill bacteria and exfoliate. High concentrations can lead to dryness and irritation.

  • Low concentrations of alpha hydroxy or fruit acids can gently exfoliate the skin and reduce the bacterial count without causing redness and irritation. As molecules are bigger, they are more superficial in their actions.

  • Vitamin C helps with acne scarring, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and decreasing inflammation due to its antioxidant activity.