Myths about acne and the sun
If you have acne-prone skin, you may feel that the sunshine helps to improve it. In fact, some people even believe that the sun can actually ‘burn off’ acne from the skin, encouraging them to use sun beds or spend too much time soaking up the rays. The truth is that over exposing the skin to the sun is damaging to all skin types, including acne-prone, so it should be enjoyed safely and responsibly.
This is due to UVA, UVB and infrared rays that penetrate the skin, causing oxidative stress and damage to our cellular DNA. This can lead to premature ageing such as lines, wrinkles and discolouration, and even more serious health concerns such as skin cancer. It also puts those with acne at greater risk of concerns such as post-acne pigmentation: a term used to describe the dark marks left after a spot or breakout has healed.
While exfoliating acids such as glycolic and salicylic often take the spotlight in skincare, azelaic acid is generally well-tolerated and considered more gentle, making it suitable even for sensitive skin, while targeting multiple skin concerns.
Azelaic acid is helpful for reducing the appearance of blemishes, improving the visible signs of ageing, and reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation.
Whether you have just started using azelaic acid, or are curious to learn more about it, read on to find out everything you need to know and how to introduce it into your daily skincare routine.
Teenage acne is a very common skin concern among teens, and it can be a major cause of anxiety, frustration, and low self-esteem in young people. But by understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments, you can start to manage and improve them and take back some control. Learn everything you need to start an effective acne-fighting skincare regime.
What is sebum and how to control it?
Our sebaceous glands sit below our pores and naturally produce sebum to coat our skin, in a similar way to how our tear ducts produce moisture for our eyes. We need this oily, waxy substance to moisturise and protect our skin, but excess levels of it can lead to visible imperfections such as blackheads and blemishes.
Blackheads, or ‘open comedones’, are blocked pores that may resemble tiny specks of dirt, but in fact they are areas where a mixture of sebum and cells have darkened in contact with the air. They appear most commonly on the nose and central part of the face, in an area known as the T-zone, and can be difficult to get rid of.
However, while they can seem to be incredibly persistent, knowing how to get rid of blackheads and reduce blocked pores can help clear your skin.
Now compulsory on public transport, in shops, supermarkets and hairdressers, face masks have quickly become an essential part of our lives. But if you've found that wearing a mask has had a negative impact on your skin, you aren't alone. Many women have experienced rashes, blemishes and even mask-induced acne (or maskne as it's being called) during the pandemic - especially if they work in an occupation where masks have to be worn for long periods of time such as in a hospital. So what causes Maskne and mask rash and what skincare routine is best for treating and preventing it?
Just as brushing your teeth and having a healthy, nutritious breakfast are crucial for starting your day right, a solid morning skincare routine is key to preparing you for the day ahead. It's particularly vital for managing blemish-prone skin.
But which products should you incorporate into your morning routine for optimal results? In this step-by-step guide, we delve into the causes and symptoms of blemish-prone skin, offering top tips and advice for managing it. We also recommend products that can assist in achieving a clear, radiant complexion throughout the year.
Taking off your makeup every night is important for all skin types, and for blemish-prone skin it’s especially beneficial. Keeping pores clear of oil, dirt or anything that could create a blockage means there’s less chance of blemishes forming. Makeup sitting on the skin overnight can clog the pores and may lead to breakouts.
Acne is a common skin condition that can be caused by a number of internal and external factors, including oily skin. Oily skin is caused by excess sebum production, which in turn can clog pores and lead to spots and blemishes. For this reason, many people who experience acne are prone to oily skin, too.
Blemish-prone skin can be frustrating and can really knock your confidence. For some people it shows up as the odd breakout or dark spot, while others have more serious concerns like persistent acne. But either way, we understand that this tendency to develop blemishes can often contribute to low mood and self-esteem.
That’s why at La Roche-Posay, we are dedicated to helping those with skin blemish issues manage and look after their skin in the most simple and straightforward way possible. Ahead, you’ll find advice and tips on understanding your personal triggers and the best methods to prevent and care for your skin when blemishes occur.
Pimple patches have fast become one of the most popular skincare hacks due to the way they effectively target blemishes. Containing active ingredients such as salicylic acid and niacinamide, these saturated patches allow you to treat a pimple without drying out or irritating the rest of your skin. Great news if you have a sensitive skin type. Pimple patches have fast become one of the most popular skincare hacks due to the way they effectively target blemishes. Containing active ingredients such as salicylic acid and niacinamide, these saturated patches allow you to treat a pimple without drying out or irritating the rest of your skin. Great news if you have a sensitive skin type.
Read on to find out more about how pimple patches work, the different types of patches to choose from, and the most common ingredients within them.
Spots, blemishes, blackheads. It’s common for many people to experience these at some point in their lives. Usually, spots will go away following skincare and with time. Occasionally, spots can leave scars and red or brown marks which may dent your confidence. The good news is that there’s plenty you can do to prevent post-acne marks and to help reduce their appearance:
