Acne is an inherited disorder of the pores – pores that shed dead skin cells much faster than normal.  Normal pores shed about one layer of dead skin cells per day inside the pore. The acne-prone pore sheds up to five layers of dead skin cells per day and the body just can’t keep up.  This forms the microcomedone, the beginning of all acne.  Taking up to 90 days, it turns into blackheads or congestion under the skin; or if bacteria is present (which just loves to feed on the dead skin cells and oil), it turns into inflamed pimples or pustules and maybe even cysts.

Because it takes up to 90 days for acne to form, you may still have 90 days of acne that will surface.  Our acne products and protocol will keep the new acne from forming that would surface 90 days from now. 

Our Acne System will have your acne under control in about three to six months (in most cases) depending on your type of acne. Some types of acne take longer to clear. 

Your Acne Specialist will customize a home care regimen that takes at least five things into consideration

• Your type of acne

• Your skin type

• Your skin color

• Your skin sensitivity and

• Your environment

The biggest part of getting your skin clear will be your commitment to doing your home care regimen as instructed and following lifestyle guidelines.

Home care regimen that you apply twice a day

• Treatments every two weeks

• Home Care Adjustments – consistent adjustments to boost your home care regimen

• Lifestyle Adjustments  - foods, medications, cosmetics, stress, and pore-clogging ingredients in skin and hair products

Your progress will be closely monitored by a Certified Acne Specialist who will make sure you have the best regimen for your skin - making adjustments, if necessary, to get your skin healthy and clear in the fastest way possible.

Comedonal acne is characterized by the presence of comedones, which are clogged hair follicles (pores). These can be either open (blackheads) or closed (whiteheads). Blackheads appear dark at the surface due to oxidation, while whiteheads remain skin-colored. Comedonal acne is often less inflamed compared to other types.

Inflammatory acne occurs when comedonal acne becomes inflamed. This type includes papules and pustules.

- Papules: Small, raised bumps that are often red and tender.

- Pustules: Similar to papules but filled with pus. They appear as red bumps with a white or yellow center.

Nodular acne is a severe form of inflammatory acne that results in larger, painful bumps beneath the skin's surface. These nodules can take a long time to heal and may leave scars if not treated properly.

Cystic acne is one of the most severe forms of acne and is characterized by large, painful cysts filled with pus. It often leads to significant scarring.

Hormonal acne is often linked to hormonal fluctuations, particularly in women. It typically appears along the jawline, chin, and cheeks.

Acne mechanica is caused by friction or irritation on the skin, often due to sports equipment, tight clothing, or excessive sweating. It can manifest as small bumps or pimples and is usually treated by addressing the source of irritation and keeping the skin clean

While this is not a type of acne per se, PIH is a common aftermath of acne. It appears as dark spots or discoloration on the skin after acne lesions have healed. Patients often call them scars.

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by facial redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like breakouts. Unlike acne, rosacea typically does not involve blackheads or whiteheads. It often affects the central part of the face and can cause a burning or stinging sensation.

Folliculitis is the inflammation of hair follicles, often caused by bacterial or fungal infections. It presents as small, red bumps or pustules that can resemble acne. Folliculitis commonly occurs in areas where hair is shaved or where skin rubs against clothing. Treatment may involve antibacterial or antifungal creams, depending on the cause.

This specific type of folliculitis is caused by an overgrowth of yeast in the hair follicles, often resulting in itchy, acne-like pustules on the chest and back. It is more common in individuals with oily skin. Antifungal treatments are typically effective in clearing this condition.

Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin reacts to an irritant or allergen, leading to red, inflamed patches or bumps. It may be mistaken for acne if it appears on the face. Identifying and avoiding the trigger is essential for treatment

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition characterized by red, flaky patches and oily scales, often found on the scalp and face. It can sometimes resemble acne when it occurs on the face. Treatment usually involves medicated shampoos or topical antifungal agents.

Keratosis pilaris is a benign condition that causes small, rough bumps, typically on the upper arms, thighs, and sometimes the face. These bumps are often mistaken for acne but are caused by the buildup of keratin in hair follicles. Exfoliants and moisturizers can help manage the appearance.

Milia are tiny, white cysts that form when keratin becomes trapped beneath the skin’s surface. They often appear around the eyes and cheeks and can be confused with whiteheads. Unlike acne, milia do not respond to typical acne treatments. They usually resolve on their own, but dermatological extraction may be necessary in some cases.

This chronic condition involves painful lumps under the skin, primarily in areas where skin rubs together, such as the armpits and groin. The lumps can become inflamed and lead to draining abscesses, which may be mistaken for severe acne. Treatment often requires a combination of antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and in some cases, surgery.