Most of the acne-fighting products on the market are extremely harsh. They
sting and burn, leaving your face feeling raw and tender. Our soap is so
gentle that you can use it on your whole body.
Our Acne Soap contains a powerful ingredient called salicylic acid. The
salicylic acid dries pimples, but at the same time, the soap’s glycerin
ingredients nourish and moisturize your skin. For the first time, you
can deep clean your pores and target your acne without winding up with
skin that feels tight and dry.
Acne conglobata. This rare but
serious form of inflammatory acne develops primarily on the jawline,
cheeks, back, buttocks and chest. In addition to the presence of pustules
and nodules, there may be severe bacterial infection as nodules become
connected to one another deep beneath the surface of the skin. If not
treated, acne conglobata can lead to scarring.
Acne cosmetica . A relatively mild
form of acne triggered by topical make-up products, acne cosmetica
typically consists of small pink bumps and local inflammation on the
cheeks, chin and forehead. It may develop over the course of a few weeks
or months and can persist indefinitely. It usually does not cause
scarring.
Acne vulgaris. Commonly referred to
simply as “acne,” this skin condition affects 90% of all adolescents and
50% of adult women. It is caused by the clogging of tiny hair follicles on
the face and body, and is characterized by unsightly and often painful
lesions on the surface of the skin and below. Contrary to popular belief,
acne is not caused by dirt, but by five factors working together:
Hormones, extra oil production, uneven skin shedding, bacteria and
inflammation.
Allantoin: An active skin protectant used
for its healing, softening and moisturizing properties. Derived from
comfrey, allantoin stimulates healthy tissue growth and acts as an
anti-irritant.
Androgens. Hormones that begin production
at puberty in both males and females. Androgens stimulate the production
of sebum, which is why nearly everyone experiences some acne lesions
during adolescence.
Anti-androgen. Any substance that
inhibits the body's production of androgens, either in the ovaries or the
adrenal gland. Oral contraceptives are often used to treat acne in this
fashion, in combination with other drugs such as spironolactone, a common
diuretic with anti-androgenic properties.
Antibiotics control acne by curbing the
body’s production of P. acnes and decreasing inflammation. For patients
with mild acne, topical antibiotics (creams, gels, pads and lotions
applied directly to the skin) may have some success, but these are limited
in their ability to penetrate deep into the follicle. For those who suffer
from moderate to severe acne, doctors may prescribe a combination of
topical remedies and oral antibiotics.
Atrophic macules, a form of scarring
most common in Caucasians, are soft with a slightly wrinkled base. Blood
vessels just below the surface of the scar may make them appear purplish
when they are recent, but this discoloration may fade over time to a pale
ivory. Atrophic macules are usually small when they occur on the face, but
may be a centimeter or larger elsewhere on the body.
Benzoyl Peroxide.Available in both
over-the-counter solutions and prescription treatments, Benzoyl Peroxide
works by destroying P. acnes, the bacteria that causes the condition acne.
It acts as an antiseptic and oxidizing agent, reducing the number of
blocked pores. In 80 years of use, there has been no bacterial resistance
to benzoyl peroxide; it is the cornerstone of acne therapy.
Blackhead (or
open comedo ). A blocked pore in which the "plug" enlarges and
pushes through the surface of the skin. The plug's dark appearance is not
due to dirt, but rather to a buildup of melanin, the skin's dark pigment.
Closed comedo (or whitehead ).
If the plug in the follicle stays below the surface of the skin, the
lesion is called a closed comedo, or whitehead. These usually appear on
the skin as small, whitish bumps.
Comedo (plural:
comedones ). When dead skin cells mix with sebum and get
trapped in the opening of a follicle, this is a comedo — the raw material
for every kind of acne lesion. It acts like cork in a bottle, trapping
dirt, bacteria and sebum inside the follicle, eventually resulting in an
acne lesion.
Comedogenic. Substances that are likely
to clog your pores.
Contraceptives. Birth control pills
(combinations of estrogen and progesterone) are often prescribed for
hormonal acne; the estrogen helps suppress the androgens produced by the
ovaries. Currently, just two formulas, Ortho Tri-Cyclin and Estro-Step,
have been approved by the FDA for the treatment of acne — but many
formulas are just as effective.
Corticosteroids. Small doses of
corticosteroids, like prednisone or dexamethasone, may be used to treat
acne. They work by curbing inflammation and suppressing the androgens
produced by the adrenal glands. Long-term use of prednisone can cause a
stubborn form of acne; corticosteroids are most affective when used in
combination with oral contraceptives.
Cortisol. Produced by the adrenal glands in
response to stress, the hormone cortisol stimulates the sebaceous glands,
triggering the production of extra oil. This increases the incidence of
comedones, causing acne breakouts.
Dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis). Persistent
flaking, scaling or itching of the scalp. For dandruff sufferers, the
natural process of scalp-cell renewal is accelerated when fighting off P.
ovale, a normal fungus found on every human head. This causes dead cells
to slough more quickly, creating the symptoms we know as dandruff.
Dermatitis (or Eczema
) is characterized by a rapidly spreading red rash which may be
itchy, blistered and swollen. Atopic dermatitis is related to asthma and
hay fever-type allergies, and is often seen in early childhood. Contact
dermatitis is usually caused by contact with irritants (detergents or
harsh chemicals) or allergens (substance to which the patient is allergic,
like rubber, preservatives or a particular fragrance). Individuals with
chronic dermatitis will have a longstanding history of irritation in the
affected area or areas — the eyelids, neck and hands are most commonly
affected in adults. Dermatitis may come and go throughout a person's life.
Dermatologic surgery. Surgery to
repair or improve the function or cosmetic appearance of skin tissue.
Methods include laser surgery, cryosurgery, chemical surgery, aspirational
surgery (for scarring) and excisional surgery (for acute cysts or
nodules). In cases of severe acne scarring, dermatological surgery can be
helpful in improving the appearance of some scars.
Dermis. The second layer of the skin, which
serves as a foundation for the epidermis and makes up the principle mass
of the skin. This layer produces collagen, elastin and reticulin, the
substances that lend structure and support to your largest organ. The
dermis also houses nerve endings, blood vessels, oil glands and sweat
glands.
Demodex mites. Normal residents of
human skin, these microscopic creatures are five times more prevalent in
patients with rosacea; they are believed to contribute to irritation and
flushing in patients with this condition.
Epidermal Cyst. A sac-like growth in
the deeper layers of the skin, filled with a soft whitish material. This
substance, which is composed of fatty acids and oils, may have an
unpleasant odor. In patients with a history of acne, epidermal cysts may
occur on the face, scalp and trunk. They are often permanent; even if the
material is extracted, the sac remains and the cyst may return. In these
cases the entire cyst sac must be excised to prevent recurrence.
Epidermis. The top layer of the skin, which
acts as your body’s natural suit of armor. The epidermis is made up of
corneocytes (the outermost layer of dead skin cells), melanocytes (which
produce melanin, the substance that gives your skin its color), and
Langerhan cells (which work with the immune system to help you fight off
disease).
Favre-Racouchet Syndrome. A
skin condition afflicting men and women over 50 causing large blackheads
around the eyes and on the upper cheeks. Unlike acne blackheads, Favre
comedones do not regress if left untreated; they must be surgically
extracted or treated with topical retinoids.
Follicle (or
sebaceous follicle ) Also called “pores,” these tiny holes
house the fine hairs that cover our faces and bodies. Oil glands at the
base of each follicle are working to produce sebum, which travels up the
hair shaft and out onto the surface of the skin.
Follicular macular atrophy. A form of acne scarring characterized by small, soft white lesions
resembling whiteheads that didn’t fully develop; they may persist for
months or years. This kind of scarring is more likely to occur on the
chest or back.
Hormones. Chemical substances that govern
the processes of the human body. Androgens, the hormones that cause
physical maturation during puberty, stimulate the body's production of
oil; these are the hormones implicated in acne.
Ice-pick scars. Most often found on
the cheek, ice-pick scars are usually small but deep, with a jagged edge
and steep sides. Over time, ice-pick scars may evolve into depressed
fibrotic scars. These also have sharp edges and steep sides, but are
larger and firm at the base.
Inflammatory. A word that means "causing
inflammation." In acne, "inflammatory" is usually used to describe lesions
that are inflamed by chemical reactions or bacteria in clogged follicles.
Isopropyl alcohol. A common
ingredient of many facial toners, isopropyl alcohol is a strong astringent
that can strip the skin of necessary oils — leaving it dry and irritated.
Isotretinoin (Accutane). The "big gun"
in acne therapy, Accutane is used to treat severe inflammatory acne when
other treatments fail. The drug reduces sebum production by as much as
85–90% and has a high rate of success for improving acne.
Keloid. A type of hereditary scarring
that occurs more frequently in African-American, Asian and Latino
populations. Keloid scarring occurs when the skin cells respond to injury
by producing an excess of collagen, which forms into lumpy fibrous masses.
These scars appear firm and shiny, and may persist for years.
Keratosis Pilaris. Patches of tiny,
red, kernel-hard bumps on the cheeks, chest, backs of the arms, shoulders,
buttocks and the front of the thighs. Most commonly found in teenagers,
keratosis pilaris occurs when hair follicles become clogged with dead skin
cells that are not properly sloughed off. It is usually painless and feels
spiny to the touch.
Macule. The flat, reddish spots that are the
final stage of an acne lesion. Macules may last for up to six months
(longer with prolonged sun exposure) but usually leave no permanent scar.
Melasma (or cholasma). Localized
hyperpigmentation (brownish blotches) that appear most commonly in women
who are pregnant or taking oral contraceptives. These are worsened by
exposure to the sun, and can be treated with topical bleaching agents.
Rarely, women who are neither pregnant nor taking birth control pills —
and occasionally men — may get melasma.
Microcomedo. The first stage of comedo
formation; a comedo so small that it can be seen only with a microscope.
Milia. Tiny cysts found mostly in the area
around the eyes. They are hard to the touch and deep in the skin. Milia
may last for weeks or even months; if they are particularly troublesome to
you, consult your dermatologist for professional, safe removal.
Nodule. Large and usually very painful,
nodules are inflamed, pus-filled lesions lodged deep within the skin.
Nodules develop when the contents of a comedo have spilled into the
surrounding skin and the local immune system responds, producing pus. The
most severe form of acne lesion, nodules may persist for weeks or months,
their contents hardening into a deep cyst. Both nodules and cysts often
leave deep scars.
Papule. The mildest form of inflammatory acne
is the papule, which appears on the skin as a small, firm pink bump. These
can be tender to the touch, and are often considered an intermediary step
between non-inflammatory and clearly inflammatory lesions.
Papulopustular. A type of acne
characterized by the presence of papules and pustules.
Peri-Oral Dermatitis. Primarily
affecting women in their 20s and 30s, this condition is characterized by
patches of itchy or tender red spots around the mouth. The skin bordering
the lips may appear pale and dry, while the chin, upper lips and cheeks
become red, dry and flaky. It can also affect the skin around the nose.
Post-inflammatory
hyperpigmentation. A darkening of the skin at the site of a
healing acne lesion. Most prevalent in African-American, Asian and Latino
populations, these spots can last up to 18 months — but may disappear more
quickly if you stay out of the sun.
Propionibacterium acnes. The
bacterium Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes for short) is a regular
resident of all skin types; it’s part of the skin’s natural sebum
maintenance system. Once a follicle is plugged, however, P. acnes bacteria
multiply rapidly, creating the chemical reaction we know as inflammation
in the follicle and surrounding skin.
Pseudofolliculitis barbae.
The acne-like breakouts commonly called "shaving bumps." As hairs begin to
grow back after shaving, waxing or plucking, they get trapped inside the
follicle and cause irritation and swelling. Shaving bumps are more common
among people with curly hair.
Puberty. The time of life when a child begins
the process of physical maturation. Onset is usually in the early teens
and is accompanied by a large increase in hormone production — and acne.
Pustule. Small, round acne lesions that are
clearly inflamed and contain visible pus. They may appear red at the base,
with a yellowish or whitish center. Pustules do not contain a great deal
of bacteria; the inflammation is caused by chemical irritation from sebum
components such as fatty free acids.
Retinoids. Chemically related to Vitamin A,
retinoids regulate growth of epithelial cells (skin, lung, and gut) and
are often powerful antioxidants and cancer preventing agents. Retinoids
are also found in many acne mediations, such as Retin-A and Renova; they
help dissolve comedones and encourage normal skin-cell sloughing and
renewal.
Rosacea . Found in adults between 30 and 60
years of age, rosacea is an acne-like condition that appears only in areas
that are likely to flush when we're embarrassed, excited or hot —
primarily the face, neck and chest. The skin is bumpy, red and oily in
appearance, and may also involve papules and pustules.
Salicylic acid is a mild acid that
works as a keratolytic agent — it encourages the sloughing of dead skin
cells. It stimulates the peeling of the top layer of skin and the opening
of plugged follicles, which helps reestablish the normal skin-cell
replacement cycle. For milder acne, salicylic acid helps unclog pores to
resolve and prevent lesions.
Sebaceous glands. Oil-producing
glands at the base of every sebaceous hair follicle — the tiny holes
commonly called pores. Found on the face, neck, back and chest, these
follicles are the sites of acne lesions.
Sebum. The oily substance produced by sebaceous
glands, composed of cholesterol and free fatty acids. Sebum travels up the
hair shaft and is expelled onto the skin’s surface, keeping it soft and
pliable.
Sloughing (SLUFF-ing) Part of the skin’s
natural renewal process, sloughing is the act of shedding dead skin cells
to make room for new ones. When cells die, they travel up the hair
follicle and out onto the surface of the skin, where they are gradually
rubbed away or released into the environment. Until we reach our early
30s, the sloughing and renewal process takes about 28 days. As we age the
process begins to slow; by the time we reach our 40s, complete skin
renewal may take more than 50 days.
Soft scars . A type of acne scar with
gentle, sloping rolled edges that merge with the surrounding skin. They
are usually small, circular or linear in shape, and soft to the touch.
Subcutaneous fat. The bottom layer
of your skin is composed primarily of fat cells. This part of your skin
acts as an insulator, keeping you warm and protecting underlying tissue
from shocks and bumps. It’s also the place where your hair begins — each
hair follicle all over your body has its roots in the subcutaneous layer.
White blood cells. White blood
cells are your body's "Critical Response Unit." When your body encounters
unwanted bacteria, it sends an army of white blood cells to attack the
intruders. This process is called chemotaxis or the inflammatory response.
In acne, it causes pimples become red, swollen and painful.
