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13/Jun/2024

 

Acne

Introduction

Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but for many, it can also bring unwanted acne breakouts. The heat, humidity, and increased sweating can wreak havoc on your skin, leading to clogged pores and pimples. However, with the right knowledge and a few simple adjustments to your skincare routine, you can enjoy clear, healthy skin all summer long. In this guide, we’ll explore effective strategies on how to prevent acne in summers, covering everything from skincare tips to lifestyle changes.

Understanding Summer Acne

What Causes Acne in Summers?

Acne can worsen in the summer due to several factors. The primary culprits are increased sweating, the use of sunscreen, and exposure to environmental pollutants. These elements can clog pores, leading to breakouts. Additionally, higher temperatures can increase oil production, exacerbating the problem.

The Role of Sweat and Humidity

Sweat and humidity create a perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. When sweat mixes with oils and dead skin cells, it can clog pores and cause acne. Understanding this mechanism is crucial for preventing summer acne.

Effective Skincare Routine for Summer

Choosing the Right Cleanser

Selecting a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser is essential. Look for products that contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which can help prevent acne by keeping pores clear and reducing bacteria.

Importance of Exfoliation

Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and prevents them from clogging pores. Use a mild exfoliant 2-3 times a week to maintain smooth and clear skin.

Hydrating Moisturizers

Opt for oil-free, lightweight moisturizers that hydrate without clogging pores. Hydration is key, even in summer, to maintain the skin’s natural barrier.

Sunscreen: Friend or Foe?

Sunscreen is vital for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, but some formulations can cause breakouts. Choose a non-comedogenic sunscreen to protect your skin without clogging pores.

Dietary Adjustments for Clear Skin

Foods to Include

Incorporate foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, which can help fight inflammation and support skin health. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseeds, are also beneficial for reducing acne.

Foods to Avoid

Limit your intake of dairy and high-glycemic foods, as they have been linked to acne breakouts. Sugary snacks and refined carbohydrates can spike insulin levels, leading to increased oil production and acne.

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Acne

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins and keeps your skin hydrated from the inside out. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day.

Manage Stress

Stress can trigger acne by increasing oil production and inflammation. Incorporate stress-relieving activities like yoga, meditation, or regular exercise into your routine.

Avoid Touching Your Face

Touching your face can transfer bacteria and oils from your hands to your skin, leading to breakouts. Make a conscious effort to keep your hands away from your face.

Effective Treatments for Summer Acne

Over-the-Counter Solutions

Products containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) can be effective for treating and preventing acne. Use these treatments as directed for the best results.

Prescription Medications

For severe acne, consult a dermatologist who can prescribe stronger medications, such as retinoids or antibiotics, to help clear your skin.

Natural Remedies

Tea tree oil, aloe vera, and green tea extract are natural remedies that have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help reduce acne.

Special Considerations for Different Skin Types

Oily Skin

If you have oily skin, choose mattifying products that help control shine and reduce oil production. Clay masks can also be beneficial for absorbing excess oil.

Dry Skin

For those with dry skin, it’s crucial to maintain hydration. Use gentle, hydrating cleansers and moisturizers to keep your skin balanced and avoid harsh products that can strip natural oils.

Combination Skin

Combination skin requires a tailored approach. Use different products for different areas of your face – a light moisturizer for oily areas and a richer one for dry patches.

FAQs

How often should I wash my face in summer?

Washing your face twice a day – once in the morning and once before bed – is generally sufficient. However, if you’ve been sweating a lot, an additional wash can help prevent clogged pores.

Can sunscreen cause acne?

Some sunscreens can clog pores and cause breakouts. Opt for a non-comedogenic formula specifically designed for acne-prone skin.

Is it okay to wear makeup in summer?

Yes, but choose non-comedogenic, lightweight makeup products. Always remove makeup thoroughly before bed to prevent clogged pores.

Can diet really affect my skin?

Yes, diet plays a significant role in skin health. Foods high in sugar and dairy can contribute to acne, while a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can help keep your skin clear.

What should I do if over-the-counter treatments don’t work?

If OTC treatments are not effective, consult a dermatologist. They can prescribe stronger medications and provide personalized advice based on your skin type and condition.

How can I manage acne scars?

Treatments like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser therapy can help reduce the appearance of acne scars. Consult a dermatologist for the best options for your skin.

Conclusion

Preventing acne in the summer requires a combination of proper skincare, a healthy diet, and lifestyle adjustments. By understanding the causes of summer acne and implementing these strategies, you can enjoy clear, radiant skin all season long. Remember, consistency is key – stick to your routine and be patient with your skin.


13/Sep/2023

Hydrafacial benefits for acne scars

Hydrafacial is the procedure everyone can get to make their skin look gorgeous. Everyone enjoys going under this treatment irrespective of age or gender. Many cosmetologists advise such facials to people who want their skin to look healthy and clear.

Hydrafacial in a Nutshell:

Hydrafacial is a technology that uses hydra technology to enrich your skin. This benefits the skin by cleansing the collaged pores and hydrating the skin, reducing fine lines, and treating under eye-bags and acne scars. 

It is the modern form of the facial if one wants to achieve fresh skin free from acne spots and acne scars then go for this treatment.

Acne:

Though acne is associated with younger people now anyone at any age gets affected by it. Acne is the reaction of the overproduction of oil from the sebum oily glands present on the skin. 

It causes pimples when the excess blocks the oil ducts this damages the skin leading to acne scars.

Acne Scars and Hydrafacial:

If you are worried about the daily popping of pimples on your face, clogged pores, enlarged pores, or damaged skin due to acne. Then don’t get concerned about this condition, all of these conditions are now manageable. 

The best-known treatment that can benefit people with all these presenting symptoms is Hydra facial.

Hydrafacial Benefits For Acne Scars:

Hydrafacial is a noninvasive painless modern form of facial that is done through machines rather than the conventional hand massage. It provides skin exfoliation which “helps” get rid of the acne scars and the acne itself.

Acne scars are formed when cystic acne penetrates the dermis layer affecting the skin deeper down into the tissues damaging the skin and leading to acne scars. 

It affects the skin around it and also causes hyperpigmentation. The clogged sebum toxifies the skin leading to skin damage and a rough appearance to the skin.

This treatment leads to detoxifying the skin and helps exfoliates the skin removing dust and acne-causing factors. Thus, HydraFacial benefits in removing acne scars.

Benefits Of Getting Hydrafacial:

It “Helps” reduce and minimize the visibility of acne scars and fine lines.

Some hydrafacial improve skin health by increasing blood circulation and making the skin look healthier and fresh.

Hydrafacial is safe to use in people having hypersensitive skin as it does not involve any kind of heat or electric current, and does not affect the skin if it is acne prone.

Hydrafacial hydrates the skin and boosts blood circulation in your face.

Also effective in minimizing the pores for clearer skin, in this case, it is the best option for treating acne scars.

Side Effects:

Hydrafacial has no potential side effects. if at times the skin gets red or irritated this situation subsides immediately.

Candidates for Hydrafacial:

Everyone can get hydrafacial. The biggest advantage of the hydra facial treatment is that it is suitable for any age group from young individuals to old age people. 

It is beneficial for any skin type but the ones who are:

  • Pregnant
  • Have active rashes
  • Sunburn
  • Rosacea

They shall abstain from such procedure.

Sessions Required for hydra facial:

Although the skin looks glowy after one session. The treatment is not a quick fix- to minimize condition like acne scar and improves skin condition it takes more than one session. 

To get maximum results it is recommended to get the treatment done after every 4-6 weeks.

Best Clinic For Hydra Facial:

The best skin clinic for hydra facials is SkinSmith clinic located in Islamabad. It is owned by one of the best-known dermatologists Dr. Mahvish Aftab who is among the top-rated dermatologist in the twin cities.

Cost:

The cost of a hydra facial depends upon the type of hydrafacial done and also the skin type.it may also depend upon the intensity of the scar and the condition of the skin.

At SkinSmith this treatment range from 9500 – 13000 rupees. 

Read Also: I Have Acne Should I See a Dermatologist?

Conclusion:

Hydra facial is very effective in treating various skin conditions. from clogged pores to skin rejuvenation. It is proven by many dermatologists that hydrafacial has more benefits than its downsides. 

Therefore,it is recommended to everyone with skin problems to get this treatment done if one wants to have smooth and vibrant skin.

FAQs:

Is hydrafacial good for acne scarring?

Yes, hydrafacial “Helps” minimize acne scars boost blood circulation in the skin, and boosts the regulation of collagen in the skin leading to fresh and healthy skin.

Does Hydrafacial lighten scar?

Yes, hydra facial lightens scars as it helps resurface the damaged skin. improved results will be seen after a couple of sittings with a dermatologist.

Does Hydrafacial remove dark spots?

It is a treatment that is also helpful in removing dark spots as it also benefits in reducing hyperpigmentation by hydrating the skin and boosting collagen and reducing melanin. 

Which treatment is best for acne scars?

There are many treatments done for acne scars but the best know treatment for managing acne scars is laser peeling. This is one of the most effective treatments known for acne scars. 


01/Sep/2023

Should i see a dermatologist for acne

Acne is a medical condition that requires getting it checked before it worsens. It is always recommended to see a doctor if the acne starts popping out on the face. This is to be done immediately and essentially to control the condition and eliminate the underlining cause. 

Acne is a skin condition that occurs to almost everyone at some point in life but it is more commonly seen during puberty; among teenagers and young adults.

It is a medical condition in which skin gets spots, pimples, oily skin, whiteheads, and blackheads with open pores, which are sometimes hot and painful to touch. In severe cases, inflamed patches are seen (cysts) which are painful.

What are the common terms used for acne?

It is commonly known as Acne vulgaris, cystic acne, Zits, or pimples.

Which are the areas prone to acne?

The areas having more sebaceous glands also termed oily glands are more prone to get acne This includes:

  • Face- this affects everyone with acne
  • Chest affects half of the population’s 
  • upper back and shoulders. 10-15% of the population is affected.

When to see a dermatologist for acne?

Generally, the mild type of acne is usually treated through home remedies by people and it often does not require visiting the doctor. Most of the time it is managed by over-the-counter medicine. If the symptoms are not resolved by ten weeks so it is advised to see the doctor.

For moderate to severe acne, it is advised to see a dermatologist in Islamabad because OTC drugs are not effective for such acne and lead to scarring.  

How can a dermatologist help?

A dermatologist in Islamabad helps in treating acne through various antibiotic therapies prescribed both for oral and topical use. they can also help reduce acne scars and advise the patient to help prevent scarring.

The treatment of acne depends upon its severity, Starting from a very basic regimen of low-dose antibiotics to the high dose retinoids, sometimes steroid injections are prescribed for severe cystic acne.

How do the drugs help in treating acne?

There are various acne medications that help through the following mechanisms :

  • Retard Bacterial growth.
  • Prevent excess production of the oil through sebaceous glands.
  • Constrict the open pores on the skin to prevent bacterial growth.

Is It worth seeing a dermatologist for acne?

Yes, it is always helpful to see a dermatologist for acne as the condition can be managed before getting worse.

What is the underlining cause of acne?

  • The underlining cause of acne is commonly linked to hormonal changes, most commonly seen at puberty. But, may affect any age.
  • Certain hormones produce excess sebum(oil) in the glands next to hair follicles which coagulate the pores of the skin and leads to the aggressive behavior of the normal skin bacteria P.acne as its harmless activity retards leading to the production of the puss cells and ultimately cyst.
  • Secondly, hormones also thicken the inner layer of the hair forming the pores whichlicle, blocki cause pimple-like growth on the skin.

What are some other causes of acne?

There may be several other causes for acne few of them are listed below:

  • Inheritance, if the condition is running in the family.
  • Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle
  • Changes during pregnancy produce episodes of acne in women.

Is acne a medical condition?

Yes, Acne is a medical condition presenting signs and symptoms in a patient but this is treated cosmetically.

What are acne scars?

Scars are the marks developed after severe acne on the face chest and upper back region, about 80% of people get acne between the age of 11-30, and among them, 17% of people get acne scars.

How are acne scars formed?

These are formed after severe acne. as the formation of cyst or papules affects the inner layer of the dermis the pores are inflamed, swell, and gets damaged leading to the formation of scars. A few of them are shallow so they heal quickly the rest which is deep take time to heal or do not heal mostly.

What is the treatment for Acne scars?

Mild scarring can be treated by the gels and creams which are supposed to be applied topically.

Moderate to severe scarring requires professional cosmological procedures. With which the results are rapid and better.

What are the procedures for treating acne scars?

Some of the noninvasive procedures for treating acne scars are listed as follows:

  • Micro-needling
  • Co2 laser
  • Chemical peels
  • Fillers
  • PDO thread
  • Fillers 
  • Fractional lasers e.t.c 

Will the current acne breakout interfere with the acne scar treatment?

Yes, one’s skin needs to be infection free before acne scar treatment otherwise the treatment procedures will not be effective rather there may be chances that the infection may worsen.

Can scars be treated at home?

Yes, mild scars can be treated at home by OTC medications, but it is always important to get a piece of advice from a dermatologist before using any type of medication.

Name OTC medications that can be used at home for treating acne scars.

Some of the OTC medications used to treat acne scars are as follows:

  • Salicylic acid
  • Lactic acid
  • Alpha hydroxyl acid
  • Retinoids.

Mild scars can also be covered up by makeup products. There are many makeup products that are suitable for hiding acne scars. 

Are invasive surgeries used to treat the scars?

Sometimes minor surgeries are done to lift the skin tissues at the normal skin level to heal up and remove the scar. This is performed when the patient is awake, only numbing of the targeted area is done to keep the procedure painless.

IS treatment of scars done on the area other than the face?

The treatment of the acne scar depends upon the location of the scar. If the scar is not noticeable doctors may not consider treating the area.

Is the treatment of the scars worth it?

Yes, the treatment is successful. through cosmetological procedures, the scars are improved and the skin looks as smooth as before. Severe scars may take a couple of months to heal.

Is scar treatment safe?

Yes, scar treatment is safe as these procedures are approved by the health authority of Pakistan.

Conclusion:

Acne is a medical condition that affects almost everyone starting from teenagers to young adults. It is always recommended to see a dermatologist whenever the acne is unmanageable, to prevent acne scars and other complex conditions linked with this medical condition.


Find Dr. Mahvish Aftab Khan at the following locations

Skinsmith
06 Lord Trade Center, 1st Floor, F-11 Markaz, Islamabad
Monday to Saturday
3 PM to 8 PM

Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS)
G-8, Islamabad
Mon to Saturday
Timings: 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM

Copyright by Dr Mahvish Aftab Khan 2023 - 2024. All rights reserved.