If you suffer from acne, it is important to know what factors aggravate it.
1. Genetic predisposition: acne is often inherited
2. Stress: certain hormonal changes arise as a result of stress and they affect the appearance of skin. Under stress, the adrenal glands secrete hormones that stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, which can result in the formation of acne. Most sebaceous glands are located in the face, neck, chest, shoulders and upper arms.
It is important to know that there are a variety of hormones that affect the appearance of the skin. In many cases, acne may be the results of complex hormone interactions rather the production of the single one.
Since daily stress is difficult to avoid, it may help to work on how we respond to it in order to avoid harmful effects on the skin.
3. Drugs: some hormone medications and some contraceptives may contribute to acne. In addition, certain antidepressants may aggravate it.
4. Sunlight: ultraviolet rays may cause skin irritation and damage. It is a good idea to protect your skin with products containing SPF.
5. Climate: hot and humid climates are known to aggravate acne. In addition, steaming at home and using rough sponges to wash the face while showering should be avoided.
6. Pressure and Friction: for anyone who is prone to acne, rubbing, exerting pressure and overheating the skin will most likely worsen the condition. If there is part of your face that is constantly breaking out, it may be the result of touching or rubbing the spot.
7. Picking: picking acne leads to causing the follicles to burst from the exerted pressure. When that happens, the most frequent result is inflammation. Your best option is to have a professional esthetician perform extractions. Picking is one of the worst acne aggravators.
8.Cosmetics: Certain petrochemical ingredients used in cosmetics are known to cause breakouts. Aveda regularly tests products to make sure that they are not acnegenic.
9.Hormonal Changes: pregnancy, menstrual cycles and birth control pills can cause hormonal changes in the body and lead to acne formation. Some clues of these aggravating factors are breakout that precede the menstrual cycle, acne that appears in adults for the first time and increased oily appearance on the face.
10. Diet: although it is not known how diet affects the appearance of acne, this is a very discussed topic. It is best to avoid foods that cause digestive problems and eat in a balanced way. It is a good idea to be aware of the chemicals used food processing. Generally, eating well and staying healthy will help with the healing process.
In conclusion, be aware of your personal habits and behavior that may be aggravating your breakouts. We strongly recommend seeing an esthetician for a consultation and possibly a facial service or a series of facials. A trained professional can properly perform extractions, clean and treat the skin with personalized products.
At Georgetown Aveda we recommend the Aveda Outer Peace Line for treating acne.The gentle foaming cleanser dissolves excess oil and impurities. The lotion keeps oil under control and it helps clear blemishes. The spot treatments fights acne-causing bacteria. The masque (used once or twice a week) visibly reduces redness and irritation.
If you have any questions, feel free to emails us at: aveda.georgetown@gmail.com
Source: Aveda Outer Peace Acne Relief Reference Guide
