03 Jun 2024
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells leading to breakouts. Acne begins in the pilosebaceous unit of the skin. This unit includes the hair follicle, the hair shaft, and the sebaceous gland (which produces an oily/waxy substance called sebum). Sebum is released to protect the skin but is sometimes overproduced, causing a build-up that causes blemishes. The characteristic lesion or bump is called a comedone (e.g. – blackheads and whiteheads).
However, not all blemishes present the same. There are several types of lesions on a sliding scale of severity from Grade I – open/closed comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) / very little visible inflammation to Grade IV – numerous comedones, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts with severe inflammation. Excess inflammation in the skin contributes to the characteristic red bumps, irritation, and even discomfort associated with blemishes and treatment protocol varies depending on the severity of the skin condition.
One of the main factors affecting acne production is hormonal. Increases in androgenic hormones (e.g. – testosterone and progesterone) can cause sebum production. The greater the imbalance of androgenic hormones, the more likely an overproduction of sebum will occur and cause the lesions associated with blemishes. In terms of external causes, diet and pollution are two key factors. The Western diet is high in sugars and simple carbohydrates, which contributes to not only blemishes developing but also worsening existing acne. Particulate matter in the air, containing free radicals and other toxins, can collect on the skin, block pores, and cause inflammation to exacerbate symptoms as well.
Best Antioxidants for Blemishes?Bilberry Extract: a natural exfoliant with moisturising properties; Olive Leaf Extract: natural antioxidant extract that helps nurture and provide visible support for blemish-prone and compromised skin; Resveratrol: compound commonly found in red wine, grapes, and grapeseed extract, this antioxidant has anti-bacterial properties and provides optimal support for healthy-looking skin Vitamin A: a powerful antioxidant that supports healthy-looking skin and helps diminish the signs of premature ageing; Vitamin C: IS Clinical’s scientifically advanced, stabilised form of Vitamin C helps to protect against the visible effects of photo-damage while providing calming properties; Vitamin E: a highly efficacious moisturiser and antioxidant that helps protect against environmental stressors, and Zinc: non-irritating and non-allergenic physical active sun protection ingredient.
When it comes to blemishes, antioxidants and botanicals are incredibly beneficial skincare ingredients. Antioxidants help reduce free radical damage and provide anti-blemish benefits while botanical ingredients have anti-inflammatory properties and/or antibacterial that also help minimise the appearance of blemishes. IS Clinical products are packed with potent antioxidants and feature scientific formulations that are designed around key botanicals.
Best Botanicals for Blemishes: Japanese Green Tea: potent antioxidant that helps support healthy-looking skin; and Resveratrol: compound commonly found in red wine, grapes, and grapeseed extract, this antioxidant has anti-bacterial properties that provide optimal support for healthy-looking skin White Willow Bark Extract: botanical BHA that exfoliates the skin and deeply cleanses pores.
iS Clinical’s Top Trio for Blemish-Prone Skin:
Warming Honey Cleanser RRP: $77 (120g): a rich, luxurious treatment cleanser formulated with the purest raw honey, royal jelly, and propolis to effectively cleanse and gently exfoliate the skin. It leaves the skin ultra-hydrated and moisturised while helping to refine and balance problematic skin types. Formulated with Papaya Enzymes and Green Tea Extracts to further encourage exfoliation and nourish the complexion.
Active Serum RRP: $154 (15mL), $246 (30mL): a fast-acting, long-term results-oriented formula that helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, visibly evens skin tone, and is excellent for blemish-prone skin. Suitable for all skin types and all ages, this powerful botanical serum containing White Willow Bark Extract and Bilberry Extract, leaves the skin feeling intensely hydrated and smooth. The cool tingling sensation experienced upon application is indicative of potent active ingredients at work.
Hydra-Cool Serum RRP: $108 (15mL), $165 (30mL): a refreshing, powerful, penetrating serum that combines superior antioxidants with essential botanicals and bio-nutrients. It rejuvenates, intensely hydrates and visibly soothes the complexion and is ideal for sensitive, blemish-prone and irritated skin.
