Cosmetic acne: why it happens and how it is treated

In the midst of many novelties in the cosmetic industry, which is reinventing itself with different products every day, it is natural to want to use new solutions to give a visually superior effect, especially on the skin. However, the wrong choice and usually the opposite effect occurs without the approval of a specialist, as is the case with acne.

Acne is an inflammatory skin disease that often occurs as a result of hormonal changes , so it is common to appear during adolescence or pregnancy. However, this situation may also be related to the use of certain products in the routine that are not suitable for the skin type, preferably cosmetic acne .

According to Christiano Kakihara, MD, a dermatologist and member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD), this condition is caused by the use of topical products that can block the outlet opening of sebum (fat) as well as the ducts that carry sebum from producing cells called sebum cells.

Also, according to the specialist, these products can be soaps, make-up removers, tonics, creams and lotions , which, due to their oily properties, can clog pores. Furthermore, people with a predisposition to acne , with oily skin or a personal history , are more likely to develop cosmetic acne than those with dry skin.

Can people with dry skin get cosmetic acne?

Dry skin has less moisturizers on its surface, so it is more sensitive, and is more prone to inflammation and exacerbation of these conditions. Although it’s rare, yes, people with dry skin can get cosmetic acne according to Cristiano Kakihara. The concepts of moisturizing and oils, as highlighted by the specialist, are completely different.

The difference between cosmetic acne and allergy

Many people tend to confuse cosmetic acne with allergic skin reactions , due to its annoying pattern. However, there are some differences between the two conditions that make the distinction easy.

Usually, cosmetic acne is limited to the area of ​​the skin where the product was applied, accompanied by red spots, blackheads, nodules, cysts and pimples. In the case of allergies, there may be redness, peeling and itching – symptoms that are not seen in cosmetic acne, according to a dermatologist.

How is cosmetic acne treated?

Initially, a suspension of acne-causing cosmetics is necessary to prevent it from getting worse. In this way, it is possible to plan a series of care with the follow-up of a dermatologist, in order to reduce the oiliness of the skin and other factors that may cause pimples.

The treatment in general is quite similar to that of acne vulgaris. After the product’s immediate suspension, Cristiano Kakihara emphasized the need to use it “non-comedogenic” – the label usually found on labels. “These products have already been tested on a large group of patients and are therefore less likely to cause cosmetic acne lesions,” he explains.

In addition to establishing a strict, adequate skin care routine, dermatologist Mônica Moya, a member of SBD, suggests the possibility of using medications aimed at controlling lipids in the skin, such as:

• • nicotinamide

• • benzoyl peroxide

• • Azelaic حامضي

• • adapalene

Comedose medications may also be prescribed in the treatment, such as:

In the case of dark spots, as a result of the appearance of pimples, the dermatologist cites the possibility of using bleaches based on azelaic acid or hydroquinone, for example.

The type of treatment that is performed depends on two factors: the degree of acne and the current skin condition. Thus, the dermatologist will be able to determine the necessary and safe care that will bring good results in each case.

The importance of a skin care routine

Beyond skin care, skin care is an important ally in promoting physical and mental health. As we stop taking care of our skin, we also take time out for self-care, personal well-being, helping the body, and working to improve self-esteem.

This habit plays an essential role in ensuring that the skin always remains healthy and disease-free. With a thorough examination, a dermatologist will be able to suggest a safe care routine, indicating which products are appropriate for each skin type, whether it is oily, normal, combination or dry.

For effective skin care, dermatologist Anna Paula Fauci, a member of the SBD, recommends the following:

• • With proper hygiene specific products

• • Related topical treatments according to medical advice

• • Regular use of sunscreen (in an oil-free gel, lotion or serum) suitable for oily or acne-prone skin

• • Avoid “squeezing” the lesions (there is a chance to increase the inflammatory process and leave more wounds )

• • Skin cleaning performed by specialists can help in some cases. Do the evaluation with a dermatologist, who will know the real need, because in some cases there may be an exacerbation

• • Some treatments can be done in a doctor’s office, as aids: exfoliation, application of lights, such as LED, and drug delivery with anti-inflammatory substances.

If these interests are mixed with healthy lifestyle habits, it can achieve satisfactory results for skin health, avoiding many problems such as cosmetic acne and others, which can cause pimples and pimples.