Avoid Adult Acne-Prone Skin with Eau Thermale Avène

Did you know that 40% of adult women are affected by acne-prone skin? Pioneer skincare brand Eau Thermale Avène introduces a new range aimed to beat blemishes while answering some of your most commonly asked questions about acne in collaboration with Dr Tarryn Jacobs, specialist dermatologist.

Q: What is the cause of adult acne?

A: Acne is caused by a complex interaction of factors whereby male sex hormones known as androgens stimulate the oil glands to secrete sebum which results in the blockage of pores. Bacteria that normally live on the skin surface can then multiply within the pores and drive inflammation.

Adult female acne is commonly referred to as “hormonal acne.” However, in reality, all acne is hormonally mediated. A more appropriate term for adult females would be “premenstrual” acne as monthly hormone fluctuations play a key role in acne flares. In addition to hormones, other factors such as stress, diet and environmental pollution may play a role in exacerbating acne for some people.

Q: What does adult female acne look like?

A: Acne in adult females tends to show up on the cheeks, around the mouth and lower chin areas (known as the U-zone). However recent studies have questioned this and show that adult female acne can occur on other areas on the face similar to adolescent acne. 

Q: What is the psychological impact associated with adult acne?

A: Acne has a large impact on appearance and those suffering from acne understand all too well its effects on confidence and self-esteem, while provoking feelings of inadequacy. Acne in adult females has been found to cause even greater distress than in teenagers which means finding a solution that works for you is important.

Q: What is a good skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

A: Choosing effective skincare products with the right ingredients is vital. 

1. Wash your face twice a day in the morning and evening. Cleansing is important to remove oil, dirt, and bacteria that have built up throughout the day. Choose a cleanser specially formulated for acne-prone skin.

2. After cleansing, use a “non-comedogenic” moisturiser as even oily or acne-prone skin needs moisturising which will help to maintain a healthy skin barrier.

3. Sunscreen should be part of everyone’s daily skincare routine. It is also useful to prevent the worsening of the dark spots that can be left behind from blemishes.

4. Avoid the use of facial oils and hair products that contain oil near the forehead.

GOOD TO KNOW: Don’t fall into the habit of trying new acne treatments every week or so as this can lead to irritation. Give your products time to work, as at least 6-8 weeks are needed to start seeing improvement.

Q: What are the best ingredients to look for in skincare products?

A: Preventing breakouts as opposed to just reacting to new blemishes is key. For this reason, if you have adult acne-prone skin, I like to recommend having a retinoid in your skincare “toolbox”.  Retinoids such as retinol or retinaldehyde are vitamin A derivatives that address and prevent clogged pores. They normalise the exfoliation of skin cells inside the pores whilst targeting the symptoms associated with inflammation. In addition, retinoids can help fade dark marks that can be left behind. Part of the conundrum of managing adult female acne-prone skin, is that women may simultaneously be dealing with concerns of skin aging as well. A great reassurance is that retinoids also have anti-aging benefits because it can stimulate collagen production. 

*Answers to questions above have been provided courtesy of Dr Tarryn Jacobs, specialist dermatologist. Visit her website here: www.pretoriadermatology.co.za

Introducing the new Cleanance Women range by Eau Thermale Avène…

The Eau Thermale Avène Cleanance Women range consists of a powerful dynamic duo that helps reduce spots, boost radiance, achieve a refined, smooth skin texture, tighten pores, reduce acne scarring and combat the first signs of ageing.

Use the Eau Thermale Avène Cleanance Women Corrective Serum each morning and night on cleansed skin before your moisturiser and sun protection. It has a lightweight texture that absorbs easily into the skin and leaves no residue. It contains Synovea™ HR which helps reduce blemishes and limits sebum oxidation. P-Refinyl (aka lentil seed extract) tightens the pores and mattifies the skin. Glycolic and Lactic Acids found within the Corrective Serum help smooth your skin texture and Avène Thermal Spring Water soothes irritation.

Before bedtime, apply the Eau Thermale Avène Cleanance Women Smoothing Night Cream onto cleansed skin. I’ve tried it after the Corrective Serum and it works like a charm. The Smoothing Night Cream contains Synovea™ HR like the Corrective Serum as well as the signature Avène Thermal Spring Water ingredient to ease irritation. X-Pressin™ helps exfoliate the skin while Retinaldehyde (aka Pro-Vitamin A) makes you look more youthful and helps reduce residual marks.

THE VERDICT: My skin looks noticeably clearer (aka blemish-free) and the texture has certainly improved. And yes, of course, I’m still frequently wearing my mask each day so this twosome really is a skincare power couple in my personal opinion.

Eau Thermale Avène Cleanance Women Corrective Serum: R369

Eau Thermale Avène Cleanance Women Smoothing Night Cream: R349

Click here to shop the entire Cleanance Women range directly on Dermastore.

For more information, please check out the Eau Thermale Avène website:  www.eau-thermale-avene.co.za or leave your questions in the comments box below.

*This article was sponsored by Eau Thermale Avène South Africa.

#CleananceConfidence

The Lowdown On Sensitive Skin

I’ve always been fascinated by skin sensitivity. Mainly, because I have it. I had the opportunity to chat to Karen Bester, Lamelle Medical Training Manager and pick her brain about this skincare phenomenon that so many of us experience on a day-to-day basis. Here’s what she had to say:

KELLI: Define the term ‘sensitive skin’.

LAMELLE: Sensitive skin is skin that reacts to ingredients, products, changes in temperature and weather where the bulk of the population would not see any change in their skin. The reaction can vary from just feeling tight, through dryness and inflammation, right up to a full allergic reaction that could include swelling, puffiness, itchiness and hives.

KELLI: How do you know if you have sensitive skin?

LAMELLE: The easiest way to find out if your skin is sensitive is if you know you have to be cautious when applying particular products to your skin. For instance, if you’re on a weekend away and you can’t just grab your best friend’s general day-to-day BB cream or moisturiser and apply it to your skin because you know your skin will react, you probably have sensitive skin.

KELLI: Are there different variants of sensitive skin?

LAMELLE: There definitely are variants.

Some people will just have the odd bit of redness when they use a product that their skin is sensitive to. Others might find that their skin always feels sensitive and sore. I had a student once who mentioned that her skin was so sensitive it went red when the wind started to blow on it.

Some patients who have severe medical conditions like eczema and acne need to have cortisone creams on hand at all times in case of flare-ups.

Others need to be careful in winter when the air is less humid and their skin becomes dry - thus resulting in sensitivity.

KELLI: Can sensitive skin be cured?

LAMELLE: This would depend on the cause of the sensitivity. If you have a genetic predisposition to sensitive skin, curing it would be difficult. What we can however do, is add ingredients that are specifically focused on correcting the problems that lead to the sensitivity in your skin. In some cases we might even find, that with a little help, your skin will normalise functions and we might be able to get your skin back to its unreactive state.

If we know that the sensitivity was triggered by a specific ingredient or treatment, it is easier to cure it. Firstly, you need to remember not to apply that ingredient to your skin. We then need to correct what was ‘broken’ in your skin and make sure that it is properly fixed before you apply your usual products again. Avoiding the sensitising product may mean your skin might never react with sensitivity ever again.

Karen Bester, Medical Training Manager for Lamelle and skincare sensitivity whizz.

KELLI: What ingredients should one look out for in a skincare product if you have sensitive skin? (Both to avoid and help prevent sensitive skin).

LAMELLE: If we truly consider sensitive skin, any ingredients that the skin gets exposed to regularly might cause irritation and an allergic reaction.

Dr Bradley Wagemaker, who is our formulating doctor and co-owner of Lamelle, insists on only formulating our products in such a way that they have the biggest potential to correct skin with the smallest risk for reaction in all skins. There in too lies a challenge – some ingredients might cause slightly more irritation. In those cases we will train the product specialist who are providing you with the products that they need to use these ingredients with care. This is why your skin care therapist will advise you to add in a product slowly over a few weeks and not just start using it twice a day in large amounts.

As a rule of thumb though we would suggest that you not use highly fragrances products and products where colourants have been added.

Then the argument for natural vs. chemical comes up – so let’s not ignore it.
The truth is that even natural ingredients have the potential to harm – arsenic and belladonna come to my mind. The word chemical is also misleading. H-2-O is a chemical and your body is made up of mostly H2O. Yes I do agree there are harmful chemicals in our world. I just don’t know why any manufacturer of skin care products, that wants a loyal client following, would put harmful chemicals in their product knowing that they are going to cause damage. 

At Lamelle many of the ingredients we use are made in a laboratory. The most important ingredient in our Serra range is made in a laboratory.

Why?

In the laboratory we can mimic structures and molecules that you have in your body. This means we can replace a full structure – like the lipid bi-layer – exactly as it would look in between your cells in your corneum (outer layer of skin). There might be plant extracts that are close to compatible oils but none that will bio-mimic this structure. This gives us very safe and very effective treatment options that have been well researched to give us results.

KELLI: What is the most common age group for sensitive skin?

LAMELLE: Even though age is not a determining factor in sensitivity, it is true that the older skin is, the more risk for sensitivity there is.

The key skin structure in protecting the skin form sensitivity is the lipid bi-layer. This layer protects the viable skin from foreign substances that might penetrate and cause irritation. This is also the layer that traps water inside the skin. As we age we produce less of the components that make up this layer – affecting our water binding and potential for reaction.

The older you are the more potential allergens you have been exposed to, making you a higher risk to acquire sensitivity.

Genetic predisposition is not linked to age though.

KELLI: What triggers sensitive skin?

LAMELLE: In the skin, foreign substances or substances that your skin perceives to be irritating, trigger a nerve response. The nerves then trigger an immune response that then trigger an inflammatory response. The inflammation then affects how the barrier is produced. This then becomes a vicious cycle/circle of reactivity.

We also now have data to support that in some people their nerves are abnormally sensitive to any change in the skin due to receptors on the nerve walls being activated. These are people who will perceive constant sensitivity, pain and discomfort of their skins. In some cases their skin is also much more reactive than any other person that they know. This condition is called Sensitive Skin Syndrome.

Generally, there are a few categories of patients with sensitive skin:

·      Medical conditions, psoriasis, eczema or atopic dermatitis, acne rosacea.

·      Genetic predisposition.

·      Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, peri-menopause and menopause might trigger sensitivity.

·      Exposure to ingredients or procedures that cause the skin barrier to be impaired and the skin to be unprotected e.g. if you have a chemical peel and do not use the correct aftercare products.

·      Exposure to a harsh environmental factors - for instance working in the sun all day or living in a desert.

At Lamelle we have focus on what you are seeing in your skin:

·      Correct the lipid bi-layer (and don’t just apply a cream on top of the skin).

·      Correct the pH of skin that has been dry for a long period of time. When the pH is impaired the skin cannot rebuild its own lipid bi-layer.

·      Inhibit the inflammatory responses (calm and sooth inflammation).

·      In sensitive skin syndrome, we turn off the over active nerve ending.

·      Where required we add anti-microbial ingredients just to make sure we are protecting the skins integrity from microbes that might cause infections.

KELLI: Does diet play a role in increasing skin sensitivity?

LAMELLE: A poor diet will definitely affect you skin’s general condition. If you tend to have sensitivity to what you eat this will also cause reaction of your skin.

KELLI: What skincare routine should one have in order to keep sensitive skin under control?

LAMELLE: A good basic skin care routine is extremely important for any patient with a sensitive skin. The focus is to maintain a good barrier, calm any inflammation, correct the pH of the skin and protect your skin from possible irritants.

Cleanse, essence, moisturiser is the minimum basic with sunscreen during the day. Your skincare therapist might add some serums but that would depend on how much sensitivity you are experiencing at the point of your visit.

KELLI: What are the best products from Lamelle to help manage sensitive skin?

LAMELLE: All Lamelle, skin care products are formulated with sensitivity in mind. This does mean that your skincare therapist could add any of the products to your skincare regime. It’s important to initially stabilise and normalise processes in the skin that allow the sensitivity to take place. For this we always go back to the Serra range of products.

Your skincare therapist will choose the products that are most suited to your skin in her consultation with you.

However, I recommend using the below products during the following steps:

1. Cleanse

Use the Lamelle Serra Cleanser (R220). This is a creamy gel cleanser that contains very mild surfactants to break the surface tension of oils on your skin to remove oils, dirt, grime, pollutants and makeup off your skin.

2. Applying a Skin Essence

Aka skincare priming liquid. Your skincare therapist will choose the one that is most suitable for your skin:

·      Skin Essence Clear, R385 – for very sensitive and problematic skin

·      Skin Essence Rejuvenate, R410 – for younger, healthier skin

·      Skin Essence Corrector, R410 – for older, more sun-damaged skin that is not acne-prone

3. Applying a Corrector

When skin is very sensitive we suggest that you start with the most simple product routine. This step will be left out until we can correct the irritation. In less sensitive skins, your therapist might select one of the following Lamelle Correctives products to boost your results:

·      Correctives HA+ Serum, R700 – to boost hydration and plumping

·      Correctives Vita C Lipid Serum, R880  – boosts anti-oxidant levels for those who are exposed to free radicals or are smokers. The product is also highly recommended for management of ageing in sensitive skin.

·      Correctives Intensive GF Serum, R860 – Growth Factors are our best tool to rejuvenate skin and this formulation is highly stimulating of cells without risk of irritation.

·      Correctives Brightening Serum, R910 – for those who want to treat hyper-pigmentation but their skin is sensitive. Your skincare therapist will have to correct that before starting on the full pigmentation inhibition program. She can however add the Brighter Serum to your routine as it contains potent inhibitors of hyper pigmentation in a base that supports barrier repair.

4. Moisturise

There are three moisturisers in the Lamelle Serra Range:

·      Serra Restore Cream, R530 – for dry skin

·      Serra Soothing Cream, R725  – for dry skin that is showing signs of irritation

·      Serra NSB Cream, R640 (launched in April 2021) – for patients with very sensitive skin syndrome, those who experiece sensitivity with severe flushing and lastly, people who suffer from hypersensitivity. We believe this product will change how sensitivity is managed on skin for ever.

The new Serra NSB Cream is my new skincare lifesaver. It calms, soothes and sorts out any form of sensitivity. Try it!

5. Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen!

I know that some people might consider sunscreen on sensitive skin a bad idea.

Sensitive skin needs added protection from the sun. For this reason I advise that people with sensitive skin apply Lamelle Helase 50, R540. They need to apply their sunscreen daily, regardless of if they are spending time in direct sunlight.

For very sensitive and inflamed skin I would also advise that they take our oral Lamelle Clarity Acnevelle Plus Supplement, R290. The ingredients in Acnevelle Plus are focused on calming inflammation from inside your body.

KELLI: Is sensitive skin more common amongst men or women?

LAMELLE: At this stage it seems that women are more sensitive than men. It might have to do with the fact that woman seek help faster. It also does have to do with subtle differences in skin structure between men and women.

KELLI: Do you have any quick fix recommendations for sensitive skin flare-ups?

LAMELLE: There are no quick fixes, unfortunately.

Consumers who use the Lamelle Serra Range of products will get a near immediate relief.

Depending on the original cause of the sensitivity, most of us that have sensitive skin will have to be careful with how we look after our skin. It’ll help having some Lamelle Serra products close at hand. Just in case.

~FYI:

I always purchase my Lamelle products from Dermastore. They’re the best local online skincare store.

 Click here to purchase directly.

Visit www.lamelle.co.za for more info.

If you have any questions, please leave them below!

YES, the Foreo LUNA™ 2 is Worth The Hype!

Two months ago, the incredible Dermastore team sent me my very own Foreo LUNA™ 2 for Normal Skin (that’s the pink one) to test out and I have been so impressed with the results. After my trip to Zanzibar (end of September 2018), my complexion appeared all tanned and glowy but if you looked closely, the top layer of my skin felt dry, rough and flakey. I noticed my regular facial products weren’t penetrating my skin properly.

My pores appeared bigger, regardless of how much primer I used, and my foundation, well, instead of providing the usual natural finish, just looked uneven. Worst of all, it just looked obvious that I was wearing makeup and that’s a huge pet peeve of mine. I tried various masks, exfoliators, you name it – but nothing could do the trick. My only hope was the LUNA™ 2 and it exceeded my expectations tremendously.

How to use the device:

1. Make sure the LUNA™ 2 is fully charged (you will receive all this equipment in the box).

2. Apply your cleanser all over your skin. Even the most gentle cleansers work effectively in conjunction with the LUNA™ 2.

3. Wet the LUNA™ 2 (don’t be shy) and use the + and – buttons on the device to control the speed.

4. Using the side containing the bristles, apply the device in circular motions to your skin for one minute only.

5. Rinse any excess cleanser off.

6. Apply your usual skincare products (eg. moisturiser, serum, etc.)

7. Flip the LUNA™ 2 around to use the Anti-Ageing Mode and use this to massage your skincare products into the skin for another minute. Focus on areas of concern that have fine lines and wrinkles. This will help with skincare product absorption and stimulate the skin.

8. And there you have it! Glowing, smooth skin. Don’t forget to rinse your LUNA™ 2 with warm water, leave in a cool place to dry and charge it when you can.
   
   

Click here to see a tutorial on how to use it.

28 September 2018:
My skin felt dry, flakey and rough. Redness was also an issue.

29 October 2018:
After a month, my glow had finally come back! My skin felt smoother, my skincare products absorbed easily and I barely felt the need to wear makeup. Quite a dramatic change, right?

1 December 2018: My present day skin which is smooth, hydrated and all round flawless, even though I’ve been incredibly stressed lately. The LUNA™ 2 is a lifesaver!

I’ve compiled a list of FAQs regarding the fabulous Foreo LUNA™ 2

1. What does the LUNA™ 2 actually do?

What can’t the LUNA™ 2 do? It eliminates 98.5% of excess oil and dirt, using the latest T-Sonic™ Technology. It thoroughly cleanses your skin and removes makeup effectively. It doesn’t take up a lot of room and is the perfect traveling companion to ensure your skin always feels and looks its best. After only 2-3 uses, you’ll notice that your foundation applies better – all due to better product absorption because of the LUNA™ 2. It’s also safe to use on your neck area, not just your face.

2. Does the LUNA™ 2 work well with all skincare products? Are there any products I need to use/stay away from?

The LUNA™ 2 works well with anything. Any cleanser is effective, but try stay away from ones that are abrasive. I recommend using a foaming cream cleanser with it, like the new La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar or SkinCeuticals Replenishing Cleanser Cream.

3. Is it best to use it in the morning/evening? Can I use it twice a day or is it too stimulating/overwhelming for the skin?

You can use it twice a day and it won't over-stimulate or anything. Although, I’ve incorporated mine into my nighttime cleansing routine before I go to sleep. The more you use it, the more your skin gets used to it and you’ll soon see what your skin needs.

4. What different devices are there?

There’s quite a variety! I am using the one for Normal Skin, but there’s a device for sensitive skin, men, combination skin, oily skin and there are mini devices too.

Click here to see all of them.

5. How much is it? And where can I buy it?

It’s R3400 and you can purchase it from Dermastore. Their delivery service is impeccable. You won’t be disappointed!

MY PERSONAL TIP:
A lot of you that follow me on social media would know that I’ve experienced Dermaplaning twice before. I am sure this contributed to the smoothness of my skin but do believe that using the LUNA™ 2 each day for the past two months religiously has made my skin look better than ever before.

*This article is sponsored by Dermastore.