ACNE

Acne is one of the most common skin concerns worldwide, affecting nearly 90% of people at some point in their lives, particularly during adolescence but also persisting into adulthood for many. It manifests as a spectrum of lesions, including comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts, most commonly on the face, back, and chest. The psychosocial impact of acne can be significant, often affecting self-esteem and quality of life.

Causes  

Acne is a multifactorial condition with several key contributing factors:

Excess Sebum Production: Androgenic hormones stimulate sebaceous glands to produce more oil, especially during puberty, but also in response to hormonal fluctuations related to menstruation, pregnancy, or certain medical conditions.

Follicular Hyperkeratinisation: The lining of the hair follicle becomes sticky and thickened, leading to blocked pores.

Bacterial Proliferation:Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes) thrives in the blocked, oil-rich environment, leading to inflammation.

Inflammation: The immune response to bacteria and sebum breakdown products causes redness, swelling, and pus formation.

Other Factors: Genetics, stress, diet (high glycemic index foods, dairy), certain medications (steroids, lithium), and the use of comedogenic skincare or makeup products can exacerbate acne.

Acne typically presents as a combination of:

- Non-inflammatory lesions: Open comedones (blackheads) and closed comedones (whiteheads).

- Inflammatory lesions: Papules (small red bumps), pustules (pus-filled lesions), nodules, and cysts (deep, painful lumps).

- Distribution: Most commonly affects the face, but also the back (“bacne”), chest, and sometimes shoulders.

Complications: Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, scarring (atrophic or hypertrophic), and persistent redness.

DMK and Aspect Dr Product Recommendations

DMK Products for Acne

- Acu System (Acu Cleanser, Acu Klenz, Acu Masque, Acu Crème, Acu Mist, Acu Therm, Acu Moist):The DMK Acu range is specifically formulated for acne and oily skin. These products work together to cleanse, regulate oil, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation, while supporting skin healing and minimising scarring.

- Deep Pore Cleanser: Gently removes impurities and excess oil without stripping the skin, helping to keep pores clear and reduce breakouts.

- Beta Gel:*Contains beta hydroxy acids to exfoliate, clear congested pores, and calm inflammation, ideal for active acne and post-inflammatory repair.

- Herb & Mineral Mist: Hydrates and soothes, supporting barrier function, which is often compromised in acne-prone skin.

 Aspect Dr Products for Acne

Clear Skin Cleanser: Contains salicylic acid to deeply cleanse pores, remove excess oil, and reduce congestion.

Problem Skin Serum: Features niacinamide, antioxidants, and botanical actives to calm inflammation, regulate sebum, and target blemishes.

Exfol A Plus Serum: A retinoid-based serum that promotes cell turnover, unclogs pores, and helps fade post-acne marks.

Hydrating Serum: Provides oil-free hydration, supporting barrier repair without contributing to congestion.

Stop Spot: A targeted spot treatment for active breakouts (if available in the Aspect Dr line).