Acne / Problematic Skin

About the Concern

Acne is a common skin condition that affects individuals of all ages and skin types. It occurs when hair follicles/pores become clogged with oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria. These clogged pores lead to inflammation, resulting in acne.

Common forms of acne include

  • blackheads

  • whiteheads

  • pimples

  • cysts

  • nodules

Common forms of acne can appear on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders. Acne can lead to scarring, uneven skin texture, and discoloration, as well as psychological effects.

Not only can hormones, genetics, stress, medications, and certain skincare products contribute to acne, but because our skin is our largest organ, acne can be a sign of internal issues related to diet and/or gut health. Managing acne involves addressing the underlying causes of breakouts, such as excess oil production, clogged pores, bacteria, while also identifying any other internal or external triggers.

A personalized skincare routine with medical-grade products and professional treatments can help reduce breakouts, prevent future flare-ups, and address scarring and discoloration. Many treatments for acne scarring are performed once the active acne is controlled and the skin barrier function has improved.

In some cases, your provider may also recommend dietary changes, medications, and/or supplements to help address the root causes of acne and support overall skin health.

Recommended Treatments

Enhancing confidence is our mission - when we feel confident, we are able to show up as our best selves in all aspects of life. For all new clients, we start with a thorough consultation to understand your goals, then craft a customized approach designed to deliver exceptional results. Let’s work together to enhance your natural beauty and boost your confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Acne is not generally caused by poor hygiene. As discussed above, there can be many contributing factors to acne. In fact, over-washing or using harsh products can irritate the skin and make acne worse by stripping it of natural oils, leading to increased oil production.

  • It’s important to consult with your provider before combining over-the-counter acne treatments with professional products or procedures. Some ingredients may not work well together and could irritate your skin. Your provider will guide you on the best skincare routine to complement your treatments.

    • avoid touching your face

    • avoid aggressive scrubbing/exfoliating

    • refrain from squeezing/picking acne lesions

    • use non-comedogenic (non-pore clogging) makeup

    • wash make-up brushes at least once or twice per month

    • change pillowcase weekly

    • eat a well balanced diet, stay hydrated

    • consider eliminating foods that potentially trigger acne (most commonly sugar, diary, gluten, or highly processed)

  • The timeframe for seeing results depends on the severity of your acne and the treatment plan in place. Many individuals begin to see improvements within a few weeks, but full results may take several months of consistent treatment. It’s important to be patient and follow your provider’s recommendations.

Recommended Products

While there are many effective products designed to treat acne and other skin concerns, it’s important to understand that not every product is right for every individual.

At Essence, we believe in personalized skincare plans that are tailored specifically to your skin type, concerns, and goals. Our experienced providers will assess your skin and make recommendations for the most effective products to address your unique needs. This approach ensures you receive the best possible results without overwhelming your skin with unnecessary or redundant products. It’s important to follow your provider’s guidance on which products to use and how to incorporate them into your skincare routine. Each recommendation comes with detailed instructions on how to properly use the products to maximize their effectiveness and achieve your desired results.