The Most Asked Questions about Acne, Answered
As an Esthetician, I frequently here the same questions. While everyone's skin is different, and every journey towards clear skin is unique, the questions are often the same. So to demystify the clear skin process, here are a couple of the FAQs I bump into!
1. How long should I stick with a skin care routine before considering other options?
Short Answer: A month or more.
Getting clear skin does NOT happen overnight. It takes anywhere from 30 to 90 days for a pimple to form and make its way to the surface. Using acne products will not stop a pimple that is already forming from making its way to the surface. Using skin care products that are designed for your acne type, skin type and skin color will help prevent new pimples from forming. The magic formula to clear skin is to see an acne specialist where together you can make a treatment plan. Use your products the way you’ve been instructed, keep your appointments and be patient. Clients usually see improvements in their skin within the first couple of weeks but it can take 30-90 days to really start clearing.
If it takes 30-90 days for a pimple to form and come to the surface, it can take that long for you to start clearing. Got Acne products are designed to penetrate the pore, where the problem lies, and prevent new pimples from forming.
2. What phases will my skin goes through when getting clear?
Getting clear is different for everyone. Here’s a few of the common things you could expect.
Dry Skin
Some clients will have dry, even flaky, skin in the beginning and that can be normal. However, being so dry that it’s irritating is not normal. Call your Esthetician for ways to eliminate discomfort and to change up your regimen.
Increase in Blemishes
You may also experience a sudden increase in blemishes. This is also a normal reaction called purging. Your acne products and treatments aren’t actually making your acne worse, it’s just bringing those pesky bumps, that were sitting right below the surface of your skin, up to the surface. Be patient because after purging you will start to see a big difference in your skin.
Voilá - Clear Skin
Finally, you will begin to see a difference in skin texture and sensitivity. Acne will become less inflamed so pimples will be less red and irritated and will become smaller and farther apart until your skin clears.