I’ve been getting a lot of clients lately who struggle with comedones (blackheads). Understandably, this can be frustrating and wear on a persons self esteem. Like any positive change, a habit must be created. This is one that I have been doing all of my life, and now teaching others how to have healthy, youthful skin. A good home care plan is the key. I can help set the stage with a series of facials that will lift the bacteria out of the face and neutralize those pesky blemishes, however creating a skin care plan for home is the key to keeping skin happy and healthy.
Understanding acne prone skin:
Blackheads result when a pore is only partially blocked, allowing some of the trapped sebum (oil), bacterial, and dead skin cells to slowly drain to the surface. A blackhead tends to be a stable structure and can often take a long time to clear. The key to skin care for acne is consistency. (adapted from Skinscripts RX)
Finding a good cleanser, toner, and moisturizer is the first step to a great home care regime. Many times people assume that because they have acne, removing the oil with an alcohol based product will cure them. Actually, that does more damage to the face by drying the skin and eventually killing various layers of the skin. We want to preserve our natural elastin and collagen. Using a cleanser, toner and moisturizer morning and night is the first step in combating acneic skin. If one sweats a lot through working out for instance, adding this two minute process will help as well. If you find that getting in the routine of cleansing the face twice a day is enough, purchasing an extra bottle of toner for the workout bag and spritzing your face after a workout will do wonders.
As your esthetician, I would evaluate your skin to decide which facial will best meet your skincare needs. After cleansing the face, I will use of one of my fruit enzyme’s that will digest protein (dead skin cells from the face) and give a gentle exfoliation. The enzyme (along with steam) softens the skin allowing for easier extractions (removing blackheads). After the extraction process, I use a mask to calm the skin and infuse hydration. Remember, even though we are combating acne, we still need to keep the layers of skin hydrated. Then, I will follow up with a serum that will assist with boosting hydration level and balance out the bi-layers of the skin. It also reduces visible wrinkles and plumps the skin. Lastly, I will moisturize your skin with sunblock to protect your skin from the sun.
