Tuesday, February 25, 2014

black skin beautyWhen it comes to black skin, acne is actually the most common skin complaint. However, despite this there has been relatively little research into acne on black skin.

Unfortunately, black skin is more prone to unpleasant keloid scarring, as well as hyperpigmentation – dark spots left behind where the acne has healed. For these reasons, acne can leave marks for a lifetime if it is not treated swiftly and effectively.

Although medication is available (both over the counter and prescription), preventing acne is generally far healthier than having to treat it once established.

Top 10 Acne Tips

by Dr Barbara Kubicka

  1. Don’t ignore it – Acne can leave long-lasting skin damage, so finding an effective treatment is really important and should be done as early as possible
  2. Drink water – good hydration helps skin to be healthier and increases its resilience. Dehydrated and dull skin is more acne prone. In addition, water can supply much needed oxygen to skin cells
  3. Clean, but don’t strip the skin – Washing twice a day helps to keep the skin clean, but beware over-harsh products that cause dryness without necessarily solving the acne. Choose a special acne formulation and change the flannel daily
  4. Experiment with acne creams and specialist dermatological products. There are many available with very different formulations, so if a particular product doesn’t work, try another type of product
  5. Try to relax – stress causes a hormonal reaction which triggers the sebaceous glands. Regular exercise and a good nightly sleep can help to manage and control stress levels
  6. Avoid fast foods, processed foods, fatty diet, fizzy drinks and sweets. All of these can stimulate production of sebum and therefore acne. Instead,choose a wholesome diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables
  7. Go outdoors! The sun naturally kills acne-causing bacteria, so regular sun exposure is helpful. However, always use sun protection with minimum SPF30
  8. Lustre Pure Light acne treatment harnesses the beneficial light without the harmful UVA/UVB for effective home treatment
  9. If home treatments, diet and lifestyle changes are not helping, seek medical attention, ideally with an experienced skincare physician, who may be able to prescribe an anti-biotic treatment to calm a severe flare-up; although do be aware of potential side effects
  10. Beware of skin lightening creams which claim to reduce black spots – these can be quite damaging

ACNE THERAPY

A range of acne treatments are available in Knightsbridge from Dr Barbara Kubicka.

As an experienced skin doctor, she can also recommend acne nutrition and lifestyle changes that may also benefit; as well as medication if necessary, specialised skincare products or complementary treatments such as Dermaroller, peels or mesotherapy to boost the condition of the skin and accelerate its recovery.

CLINICBE KNIGHTSBRIDGE

For more information regarding Clinicbe, or to book an appointment with Dr Kubicka, please call 0207 125 0521 or email info@clinicbe.com

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