Skin has been a huge part of the beauty conversation during lockdown. After researching, we’ve found acne to be one of the most-talked-about topics. Why the influx? Stress and maskne appear to be the biggest culprits. Watch the full episode of NightInWithEscentual, or scroll for the noteworthy cliff notes to find out more about how to stop spots…

1. Acne is an over-production of oil that is driven by hormones.

It affects up to 80% of teenagers and up to 40% of adult women.

2. Blackheads are the primary cause of acne.

There are two types:

1. Blackheads form when the pore is open. The top of the pore goes black due to the oil oxidising.
2. Microcysts form when the pore is closed. They look like little skin bumps, formed from trapped oil.

3. Acne can look like…

Papules: A large red spot under the skin with no head.
Pustules: A pus-filled spot with a head.

5. Acne has different grades

Teenagers usually experience acne all over the face.
Adults, particularly women experience acne around the chin, jawline and neck.

As all acne is hormonal. ”hormonal acne” is late-onset adult acne, which is often stress-related or linked to a menstrual cycle.

6. Maskne isn’t new, it’s medical name is Acne Mechanica

Maskne comes from friction and heat. Friction stimulates oil glands and the heat from the mask creates a breeding ground for bacteria. It’s extremely common in sports for cyclists, and anyone who wears baseball caps.

7. Double cleansing is imperative to clear maskne

A thorough cleanse will remove all bacteria. A soap-free cleaner like the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Wash is ideal for this, but if your skin isn’t typically oily, look for a creamy cleanser that respects your skin’s pH balance.

8. Salicylic acid is the best ingredient for oily skin types

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) which is lipophilic, this means it’s attracted to oil and will dig deeper into the pore to unclog trapped impurities. BHAs travel deeper than AHAs, as AHAs attract water.

9. Avoid salicylic acid with retinol

Don’t mix salicylic acid with retinol, your skin could break out further and become dryer. Always remember to use SPF the day after.

10. La Roche-Posay’s Effaclar range is made for acne-prone skin types

The award-winning Effaclar Range is recommended by dermatologists and the iconic Effaclar Duo Plus is proven to cleat skin in 4 weeks.

The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Edit

Over To You!

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