Acne Products

Acne is caused by a variety of factors, which include genetics, sebum (oil), an accumulation of dead skin cells, bacteria, and hormonal imbalance. Dietary factors may play a role in acne for some individuals.

Large or overactive oil glands may be related to genetic or hormonal influences. When the oil gland is overactive, excess oil is produced. When combined with an accumulation of dead surface skin cells, oil and debris that is trapped under the skin becomes a “white head” or "black head". Bacteria and clogged pores (white heads and black heads) occasionally become inflamed and rupture, leading to red, painful, cystic acne lesions. Cystic acne often results in scarring and therefore medical treatment is always required.

Certain dietary factors may worsen acne, such as diary products, caffeine, or spicy foods.

Acne is not restricted to adolescence and can occur at any age. Likewise, acne may resolve on its own, or may continue thoughout life. Dermatologists can successfully treat acne, but the skin will remain acne prone and therefore consistent skin care with the appropriate products are necessary to keep pores clean and free from a build up of oil and debris.

In mild cases, acne may be treated with topical creams alone. But, for severe cases, topical treatment and oral medication may be required.

All acne topical treatment is associated with redness, dryness and exfoliation for 6 - 8 weeks before skin becomes more tolerant.

Skin care to prevent acne should be started in adolescence with use of a proper cleanser and exfoliant to reduce buildup of dead skin cells.

Some forms of acne are due to hormonal imbalance and require medical supportive treatment, such as oral medication or procedures. Skin discoloration from acne may be seen in individuals with dark hair, as well as ethnic skin, such as Asian or African American. If skin discoloration occurs as a result of acne, the Nu-Derm^® system is a more effective treatment.

Recommendations for acne skin care are based upon the severity of acne, presence of discoloration, age of patient, and probability of scarring with acne. The most effective treatment for acne is a combination of Nu-Derm® and ZO® Skin Health...