I Keep Breaking Out! How to Take a Comprehensive Approach to Acne

Dealing with acne can be a very frustrating and overwhelming journey. Especially when it seems like you have tried everything on the market and nothing works. At Med 44 Arcadia, we believe in a comprehensive approach to treat acne and address the issue from multiple angles.

Forms of Acne

When it comes to acne it isn't just one size fits all. There are different types of acne and understanding each specific type is crucial for understanding what the right treatment may be for you. 

• Hormonal Acne: This type of acne normally forms on the chin and jawline and can manifest in deep, painful cysts. It is often triggered by fluctuations in hormone levels most prevalent during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause.
• Cystic Acne: Severe form of acne that takes form in deep, painful nodules beneath the skin. It can be inflamed and tender to the touch, requiring targeted treatments.
• Comedonal Acne: Includes blackheads and whiteheads, caused by clogged pores due to excess oil and dead skin cells. This form of acne is non-inflamed, making it not super painful but it can still be challenging to treat.
• Inflammatory Acne: Takes the form in red, swollen pimples as a result from bacterial infestation and skin irritation. It includes papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts, which can lead to scarring if left untreated.

Diet

Food does not cause acne but it can trigger acne in different people. While responses to food can vary, certain dietary adjustments may help reduce acne flare-ups.

Limit Dairy: There has been some studies suggesting a link between dairy products and increased acne production. It may be suggested to reduce your intake of dairy products to see if your skin improves.

Avoid High Glycemic Index Foods: Sugary snacks and white bread can spike insulin levels, potentially worsening acne. Try swapping these foods for fresh fruits and vegetables, beans, and steel-cut oats

Reduce Processed Foods: These foods can lead to inflammation in the body, which can trigger acne flare ups. Instead, focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Potential Acne Triggers: Here is a list of potential foods that might be triggering your acne:

• Whey Protein
• Shellfish
• Peanut Butter
• B12 & B6 Vitamins
• Biotin
• Dairy
• Gluten

Supplements

In addition to making changes to your diet, certain supplements may help improve skin health and reduce acne.

• Zinc: Extremely helpful for its anti-inflammatory properties. Zinc helps control excess oil production, which can reduce the chance of clogged pores and blemishes.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These supplements help reduce inflammation and help improve overall skin health.
• Probiotics: A healthy gut microbiome can positively influence skin health.They can help reduce inflammation by reducing pro-inflammatories and releasing anti-inflammatories. 

ZO Skincare Routine

At Med 44 Arcadia, we create personalized and tailored skincare routines for each patient to help treat acne. We carry the ZO Skin Health line, which offers products designed to target acne effectively. Here are some of our most popular skincare products to target and prevent acne:

ZO Exfoliating Cleanser: Contains alpha and beta hydroxy acids to gently exfoliate the skin and unclog pores.

ZO Acne Control 10% Benzoyl Peroxide: Maximum strength acne fighting formula controls surface oil, neutralizes bacteria, and prevents future breakouts.

ZO Oil Control Pads: Triple acid treatment toner that reduces the formation of acne, normalizes oil production, and reduces the appearance of pore size. 

ZO Complexion Clearing Masque: Natural, clay-based sulfur masque that cleanses pores and absorbs excess oil that can lead to future breakouts, while hydrating the skin to combat dryness.

ZO Retinol + Acne Complex:  Topical retinol that targets every stage of acne formation and is clinically proven to clear moderate + severe breakouts, help prevent future blemishes, and improve the appearance of post-acne marks and textural scarring.

Complexion Clearing Serum: A water-based serum clinically proven to reduce surface oil, congestion + visible redness for a continually clear + balanced complexion.

Treatments

Acne BBL(Broadband Light): A non-invasive treatment using light therapy to target and destroy acne-causing bacteria while reducing inflammation. It also helps to absorb oil, and minimize bacteria in the skin with minimal downtime.

Chemical peels: Peels exfoliate the top layers of skin to help unclog pores, reduce oiliness, and improve skin texture. Med 44 Arcadia offers various types of chemical peels, allowing for a customized treatment based on your specific skin needs.

Book a Consultation With Med 44 Arcadia

If you are struggling with acne and you may be starting to feel defeated, our team at Med 44 Arcadia is here to help. Book a consultation and let us help you create a customized plan to get you back to feeling confident in your own skin.