Even though we like to think we are skincare experts, there are some issues that you should leave to a professional. Some concerns are easy to identify – dry skin, for example – but others, such as blemishes and acne, can be more difficult to diagnose. We have finally found the answer.
There is no one size fits all solution to skincare concerns like acne and hyperpigmentation. Some common symptoms will help you determine what’s wrong. We asked Zainab Laftah to explain some common signs and suggest ingredients that can help. Read on to learn more about her advice and products that may be helpful.
ACNE-PRONE SSKIN
Acne is a chronic skin disease. Acne is a chronic skin condition. Acne-prone people can also suffer from painful, recurrent inflammation lesions such as cysts, pustules, and nodules. Acne is characterized by persistent inflammation of the oil glands and blockage. Blemishes or occasional spots are symptoms of other conditions, such as oily or combination skin. Acne and acne-prone or oily skin are different skin conditions.
What ingredients may help:
Dr. Laftah explains that moderate to severe acne treatment is often recommended under dermatologist supervision and involves oral medications containing retinoids and anti-inflammatory medicines. Some topical products can help treat some of the main symptoms of acne. Dr. Laftah explains that targeted treatment is essential for acne-prone and blemish-prone skin. “For occasional blemishes, salicylic-acid- and benzoyl-peroxide-based skincare products are effective at reducing the risk of blemishes and as a spot treatment, respectively.”
Remember that acids like salicylic are not compatible with retinoids. The powerful combination could be too harsh on the skin, causing irritation and redness. Find products that combine acids with hydrating components like glycerin. La Roche-Posay Duo(+), Moisturiser, uses salicylic acid and glycerin. These ingredients help unclog pores, reduce breakouts, and hydrate skin without drying it out.
OILY AND COMBINATION SCREEN
Your skin produces sebum. When it makes too much sebum (aka oil), glands become clogged. This can happen when you have a lot of sebum (aka sebum), dead skin cells, and anything else that comes into contact with your skin (think pollutants, dirt, etc.). Oily skin is the result.
Combination skin occurs when your skin can be oily and sometimes dry. Both oily and combination are susceptible to blemishes due to excessive sebum production.
What ingredients may help:
It is crucial to choose the right cleanser, especially if your skin tends towards oiliness. La Roche Posay Effaclar Pure Foaming Gel is a foaming cleanser that cleans the skin without causing it to dry out. This particular cleanser uses zinc PCA, which reduces sebum while moisturizing skin. It is essential to find ingredients that can do both for oily skin.
Acids are also a favorite of oily and combination skin, particularly beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). BHAs can penetrate deep into the skin and unclog pores. Salicylic acid is a BHA well-known to people with oily skin and acne-prone skin. But another acid may be equally effective: lipo hydroxy acids (LHA).
“Those with combination or oily skin will benefit from LHA,” says Dr. Laftah. LHA, a derivative of salicylic acid, targets glands that produce a lot of sebum. It is, therefore, helpful in preventing blemishes. LHA is mild and can be used in combination with other products. La Roche Posay Effaclar Serum contains LHA and salicylic and glycolic acids to help unclog pores and smooth skin. It also stimulates skin cell regeneration. The serum contains niacinamide to help reinforce the skin barrier and combat moisture loss and La Roche Posay Thermal Spring Water.
HYPERPIGMENTATION
Hyperpigmentation occurs when you produce too much melanin. Melanin is a pigment that naturally appears in your skin. This results in dark spots. Melasma and sun spots are the most common forms, but there is also postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (usually caused by acne or a spot).
“Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation may develop due to the overproduction of melanin and its transfer to surrounding skin cells. As a result, inflammation.” Dr. Laftah says. “The pigmentation will fade once the melanin levels are normalized.”
Hyperpigmentation is most common in people with darker skin tones. She says that those with skin that tans easily are more likely to be affected by hyperpigmentation.
What ingredients may help:
Dr. Laftah says that treating hyperpigmentation involves two steps: fading pigmentation and preventing pigmentation from worsening. Niacinamide is a crucial active ingredient that can fade excess pigmentation. Other components include glycolic acid kojic, hydroquinone, and retinoids. She suggests gradually increasing the frequency of use and concentration to avoid inflammation or worsening pigmentation.
Sun protection is also essential. Sun exposure can worsen hyperpigmentation. Dr. Laftah recommends daily sunscreen, preferably 50+, and vitamin C, which will help fade dark spots.
