3 things I learned from treating my own acne as a professional skin therapist
Dealing with acne can feel like a never-ending battle, and after years of treating other people's skin but struggling with my own, it took me realizing three key points to change the game with my skin (and my self-confidence);
1️⃣ Consistency is Key: As a skin therapist surrounded by skincare brands, product training days and treatments, I used to jump from one brand's acne cleanser to another's clarifying cream just to see what would work.
However, in doing this, I wasn't giving one product time to work to its full potential and I was falling for the same traps I warned my clients of on the daily. Acne lesions can take weeks to form, from tiny blockages under the skin until the develop into full breakouts so it's important you give your product the opportunity to perform but sticking to the 4-8 weeks of consistent use recommended..
2️⃣ The Battle of the Barrier: When I wasn't jumping from product to product, I'd spend my lunch breaks trying desperately to clear my skin with peels, microdermabrasion, steam and any other treatments at my disposal. The result? Angrier, more painful breakouts and deep inflammation from an impaired barrier.
Although acne needs a level of exfoliation to make up for build up of dead skin cells, if we overdo it and use the right moisturizers and soothing products, all we cause is irritation and worsen the issue.
Regardless of the severity of breakouts or oiliness, finding the balance of deep cleansing to soothing products is the key to clarity.
3️⃣ Mind Your Lifestyle: Many of us remember being told as a teen that we have acne because we eat too much junk food and brushing it off. However, as research better understands the connection the skin has to the rest of the body, it's an important factor not to overlook.
For me, reducing my alcohol intake this year made one of the biggest changes in my skin I've seen to date. Now this won't be the golden ticket for everyone and I always recommend that if you know you have digestive issues, chronic stress, or other lifestyle factors that may be impacting your body, to work in collaboration with a specialist.
As a skin specialist, I have seen clients before who experience good results with skincare and facials but plateau due to the impact of an internal factor. In cases like this, we work collaboratively with their GP, nutritionist, endocrinologist or other specialist to bring them the best results in a holistic manner.
I know first hand the impact acne can have on self-confidence and have learned to accept that (like I tell my clients) acne is something to be managed, not cured. There will be great skin days and there will be times of stress, neglected skincare routines, or unideal diet that lead to a breakout but that doesn't mean you're back at square one - just a bump in the road.
If you’re struggling with your skin, remember: your journey is unique. Remember to give your products time, that more isn't always better, and take care of yourself holistically where possible. Your skin (and confidence) will thank you!
