Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages. Understanding the causes, types, and treatments of acne can help you manage it effectively and achieve clear, healthy skin.

What Causes Acne?

Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. This can be due to hormonal changes, excess oil production, bacteria, or an overactive immune response.

Adult Acne

Acne isn’t just for teenagers—many adults also experience breakouts. Adult acne can be caused by stress, hormonal fluctuations, diet, or the use of certain skincare or hair care products.

FAQs ON ACNE

Can my diet affect my acne?

Yes, diet can play a role in acne. Foods with a high glycemic index, dairy, and processed sugars may contribute to breakouts. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support clearer skin.

Are there any skincare ingredients I should avoid if I have acne?

Avoid products with heavy oils or comedogenic ingredients that can clog pores.

Can I wear makeup if I have acne?

Yes, you can wear makeup if you have acne, but opt for non-comedogenic and oil-free products to avoid clogging your pores. Make sure to thoroughly remove your makeup at the end of the day.

Does acne always go away on its own?

While some people may outgrow acne, others may need to treat it actively.

What is skin purging? 

Skin purging is a temporary phase of breakouts that occurs when new skincare products accelerate the skin's natural exfoliation process, bringing underlying impurities to the surface more quickly than usual.

When you introduce a new product that increases cell turnover, such as a retinoid or an exfoliating acid, the skin starts shedding dead cells faster. This rapid shedding can push out oil, bacteria, and other debris trapped within the pores, leading to the appearance of whiteheads, blackheads, or even cystic acne. Although this can be frustrating, purging is generally a sign that the product is working to clear out the congestion beneath the surface of the skin.

Am I purging or is this product breaking me out?

Skin Purging:

• Duration: Typically lasts 4-6 weeks, but this can vary depending on the product and individual skin type.
• Location: Breakouts often occur in areas where you usually experience acne or clogged pores.
• Appearance: May include small pimples, whiteheads, or blackheads that heal faster than typical breakouts.

Adverse Reaction or Breakout:

• Duration: Can persist or worsen over time if the product continues to be used.
• Location: May appear in new areas where you don’t typically get acne.
• Appearance: Often includes red, inflamed pimples, itching, or burning sensations.

Pro Tips for Managing Acne

Stay Consistent: Stick to a regular skincare routine with gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and targeted treatments.

Avoid Touching Your Face: Keep your hands away from your face to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Moisturize Daily: Even if your skin is oily, it's important to use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to maintain its balance. If your skin becomes too dry, it may start producing more sebum to compensate, which can lead to more acne.

Choose the Right Products

SUGGESTED REGIMEN FOR ACNE-PRONE SKIN

CLEANSE A.M. + P.M.

Regularly cleanse your face with a deep-cleaning cleanser suitable for acne, such as the Instant Shine Stop Cleanser. If using this cleanser, apply it only at night. In the morning, wash your face with lukewarm water. After cleansing, remove excess oil and visibly tighten the appearance of pores by applying STAR RESCUE Clarifying Toner with a cotton ball.

A.M. Routine

After cleansing and toning, apply the Repairing Day Cream to your face.
Don’t forget your SPF!

P.M. Routine

Apply Night Cream Intense, avoiding areas with larger pimples or acne. For those spots, use Over Night Magic.

SPOT TREATMENT MASK

While the sun can temporarily dry out acne, it can worsen it over time. A more effective way to address acne is with the STAR RESCUE Pink Clay Treatment Mask. Use this mask up to three times per week. Leave it on for 10-20 minutes, then rinse off. Follow with either the Repairing Day Cream or Night Cream Intense.