Inflammatory Acne

Although sebum and dead skin cells may play a role in the surface, textural symptoms of inflammatory acne, congestion and the resulting bacteria are likely from inflammation that starts at the hair follicle and expresses outward. This leads to varied symptoms and characteristics:

• Papules: Result when the wall of the pore breaks down due to advanced inflammation, resulting in hard, congested pores that are tender to the touch and are pink in appearance.
• Pustules: Form when the wall of the pore breaks down, however unlike papules, pustules are filled with pus. These bumps protrude from the skin and are red in color; white and yellow fluid may form on the surface of the skin.
• Nodules: Occur due to enduring, prolonged congestion that persists as pores grow larger. Unlike pustules and papules, nodules appear due to inflammation deep in the skin layers.
• Cysts: May develop when pores are congested by a combination of bacteria, sebum, and dead skin cells. The congestion site is deep within the skin, further below the surface than nodules, and forms large red or white bumps, which are painful to the touch. Cysts are the largest and most progressed form of acne, resulting from advanced inflammation due to infection; Cysts are also the most likely to result in scarring.

Who Can Experience Inflammatory Acne? 

• Clients of all colour and age
• Clients prone to inflammation, due to prolonged stress, or hormone irregularity
• Clients who consume an inflammation-promoting diet, who smoke or consume excess alcohol

What Are The Most Effective Treatments?

Laser therapy, when skillfully applied, helps to eliminate bacteria, leading to reduced inflammation barriers throughout the hair follicle and all the way to the pore opening. This eases the flow of sebum and reduces the tendency toward congestion. Laser therapy can also ease the effects of  TEWL (trans-epidermal water loss), which can happen when oil doesn’t arrive at the surface and permeate skin to nourish vs. congest. Illuminate’s complimentary consult is ideal to assess the nature of your inflammation and to develop a strategy that’s tailored to you and that can adjust to the ever-changing nature of your skin.

• We Recommend:
  • Complexion Rehab
  • Radiance + Remedy
  • Dermal Infusion
  • Radiance + Refresh: A combination of the above
  • Hormone balancing diet
  • Stress-reducing diet and lifestyle
• The Benefits:
  • Reduced Bacteria leading to reduced inflammation
  • Enhanced sebum flow, which moisturizes skin preventing TEWL, flaking, and irritation 
  • Regulated more refined skin, smooth texture, and elevated glow
  • Reduced risk of scarring