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*1 being needs improvement, 5 being excellent
Your Personalized Overview
Your skin profile is a combination of acne and potential discoloration. Below are some of the keys to your skin:
Lighter Pigmented Skin - more likely to find yourself with a dark mark, or what's referred to as Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) after acne heals. Always wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 if you'll be exposed to the sun.
Control Acne First - before tackling dark marks, it's important to treat the underlying acne first so new marks can't appear. A combination of regular facials, diet shifts, and lifestyle changes can help make a big difference.
Exfoliation - proper exfoliation can be largely beneficial to your skin type. We generally don't recommend mechanical exfoliation; instead, opt for products with ingredients such as Lactic Acid or Azelaic Acid.
Patience - 85% of your peers at your age will experience acne at some point. Your hormones are generally still in flux which can lead to blemishes, but changing various lifestyle and dietary habits can help stabilize these shifts.
Things That May Affect Your Skin
Genetics
Given that you have a history of acne in your family, there is a strong probability your blemishes have a genetic link. Take a look at what their skin responds to, and chances are your skin will respond as well. Although there is nothing you can do about genetics, a good skincare routine, and consistent facials can keep most blemishes at bay.
Diet
Studies are finally showing what has been common sense for decades: your diet can affect your acne. Given your heavy consumption of processed foods, your blemishes may be caused by a spiked insulin response in your body, which causes inflammation. Try to eat a more balanced diet with low-glycemic foods like vegetables and fruits, and also try cutting out dairy products from your diet. In many of our clients, this can produce dramatic results when coupled with a good skincare regimen.
Sun Exposure
Your sun exposure habits may be making dark marks worse. Vitamin D is without a doubt good for the skin, but prolonged exposure without SPF can make discoloration worse, and prolong the process of fading. Always use sunscreen when going out, and try to abstain from tanning beds as well if you have discoloration.
Genetics
If people in your family have freckles or melasma, chances are, your skin discoloration may be caused by genetics, as 80% of skin conditions and skin type are usually inherited. This being said, ask your skin therapist about the Hydrafacial MD. The salicylic acid in the treatment can help fade the darker spots, while revealing a more even skin tone underneath.
Beneficial Ingredients To Watch For
Salicylic Acid
effective for non-inflammatory acne, oil plugs, and discoloration
Green Tea
highly soothing and anti-inflammatory that may help with discoloration
Benzoyl Peroxide
when applied at 2.5% concentration and following a consistent, gentle regimen, BP can treat most mild to medium forms of acne
Vitamin B5 (Supplement)
some acne studies show vitamin b5 supplementation can help significantly decrease acne and control oil
Vitamin A (Supplement)
Accutane and Retinol are forms of Vitamin A - people with acne tend to be deficient and daily supplementation can help
Willow Bark Extract
natural antiseptic + exfoliant
Zinc Oxide
anti-inflammatory
Activated Charcoal
Detoxifying // Oil-Absorbing // Unclogs Pores // Reduce Blackheads
Aloe Vera
Antioxidants A, C, and E // Anti-Inflammatory // Soothes Redness and Irritation
Bentonite Clay
Detoxifying // Draws toxins out // Controls excess sebum