Yes, that single word, clinically known as acne vulgaris, is way scarier to a teenager than Saw V. Acne can ruin a young person’s life, at least in their minds, or surely cause a crimp in their self-esteem.
At Spa Vitoria, we offer various treatments that can address acne, from PCA facials to chemical peels to skin care products. But it helps to understand exactly what causes these breakouts. Here’s some information about you and your teenager.
What’s behind those zits?
There are still many misconceptions about acne: it’s caused by eating greasy foods; eating chocolate causes breakouts; the drier my skin, the less acne there will be, among others.
In reality, acne comes down to the sebaceous glands at the base of the hair follicles. The sebaceous glands produce oil, keeping the skin and hair lubricated and moist. Acne forms when the hair follicles under your skin clog, trapping the oil beneath the skin. You know where acne is more prevalent: on the face, back, neck, shoulders, and chest. It appears as occluded pores (blackheads or whiteheads), red bumps (pimples), pustules, or cysts.
The condition isn’t serious — although don’t tell this to your 16-year-old daughter in the midst of a breakout — unless the acne is cystic. Those cysts can scar the skin.
Causes of acne
There are still many mysteries about the pinpoint causes of acne. Doctors believe it’s due to a combination of factors. The rise in the male sex hormone androgen in teenagers of both sexes is thought to be the primary cause. When androgen levels increase the oil glands enlarge and produce more oil.
Genetics also play a role. Some people are simply more prone to the condition. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can trigger acne outbreaks, even if you got off easy as a teenager. Certain cosmetics and medications cause breakouts for some people, as well. Research has not proven any link between foods such as chocolate or junk food and acne.
At Spa Vitoria, treatments such as chemical peels and our PCA Acne Treatment are excellent for lessening the effects of acne. We also offer various skin care products such as Jane Iredale Mineral Cosmetics and Skin Medica that can help with acne.
If your teenager is suffering from acne, call either our Salt Lake City or Park City Spa Vitoria locations and make an appointment.
