One of the most common conditions that affects many people, is acne.

Although the younger generations are more likely to get acne, this affliction can affect any age, gender or ethnic group. Research shows it may afflict almost 5.6 million Canadians. It can happen from contaminated or greasy cosmetics causing clogged pores, humidity (sometimes from the masks we've been wearing for months), hormones and occasionally, your diet. Over the counter medications, cleansers, cover-ups and treatments, can offer help and hope.

Over the years, many misconceptions have caused concern, as well as, in some cases, increased the problems with this condition.

Some myths about acne are:

1. Acne happens overnight: it probably seems like it does but those little problem spots have most likely been brewing for a while. Treat those problem pimples at the source... develop your skincare routine and try to be consistent. If you find a product that keeps the breakouts to a minimum, then stick to it. Keep your skin clean and your pores will not get clogged.

2. Acne isn't genetic: well, if your parents suffered from it, you most likely will, too. Genes can have an affect on your skin sensitivity, as well as your inflammatory response. If these are strong issues with you, then your body may create more bacteria that causes acne. Hormones and changes can also produce more breakouts. Even if you are predisposed to this condition, you can get your skincare routine in place before it gets too bad.

3. Not washing your face will cause breakouts: Acne is not simply caused by forgetting to wash your face. It is a skin disorder that needs to be taken care of. Keep in mind, that if you wash too often, it can lead to dry skin and cause more issues. Use gentle cleansers at least once a day to keep your skin healthy.

4. Popping the pimples with make them heal faster: actually, this can make it worse! When you pop them before they're ready, you can release bacteria and possibly cause more acne, as well as cause scars. Acne medication and washing is the best way to reduce inflammation.

5. Acne only affects teenagers: while most cases are in this age group, it can happen to people of all ages. Adult acne can be difficult but still treatable. In office procedures can obtain great results.

6. You shouldn't use moisturizer with acne prone skin: drying out your skin makes it more vulnerable to skin issues. You should find a good moisturizer for your skin type and avoid added fragrances, cocoa butter, parabens and mineral oils.

7. Only people with oily skin get acne: this is common but all skin types can have breakouts. You can have an overgrowth of bacteria with combination or dry skin, too. It just may be more of a challenge to find a treatment that works best. Watch the products ingredients carefully to avoid drying out your skin or making it too oily.

8. Acne will go away on its own: this can be a chronic condition so you may need intervention to cure it. Over the counter products may not work on all patients. Trust your cleaning routine but you may need more extreme measures for severe cases. Microdermabrasion or laser treatments may be necessary.

If you can't get a handle on a home treatment, please contact Envision Medical Spa. We would be happy to help you with your condition and work together to find a procedure that will work best for your skin.

Envision Medical Spa in Leduc offers many acne solutions because no two people are alike and different products may work better for some than for others. Envision also offers alternative anti-acne treatments and scar reduction procedures including:

• Sublative Rejuvenation

• Botox for Acne

• Blu-Light Therapy

• Microdermabrasion

• Dermafrac

We do advise our clients that acne can be an ongoing battle and can take up to two months for treatments to begin to take effect. With patience, daily skin care and the expertise of Envision's healthy skin gurus, the battle against acne can be won.

Call Envision today for a free, discreet consultation.