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Oily T
Answered Tuesday 18 October 2011 |Share:
I seem to be having issues with my chin area, seems to be oily with breakouts lasting weeks. Ive been using dermalogica but that doesnt seem to be working, is there anything i should be doing to prevent these breakouts? Ive never had problems with my skin before, but the last few years this area is shocking.
Answer
Dear Kell
Thank you for your question.
Adult acne is very common. Clinical studies indicate that between 40 and 55% of the adult population in the 20-40 age group are diagnosed with a low grade, persistent acne and oily skin, so please take comfort in the fact you are not alone. Research has shown the main culprit with adult acne is chronic stress. By addressing this factor you will be well on your way to a healthier and clearer skin in the near future. It is great that you have invested in skin care, however it is unfortunate you are not yet seeing results. I would certainly encourage you to re-visit your Dermalogica treatment centre where you purchased your products and have your skin re-analysed to ensure you are still on the correct regime. What I would like to do, however, is offer you some tips on general skin care for your skin challenges. Where to start? Let’s start with the cleansing routine. Cleansing is a very important step within your skincare. It is the step that removes all the debris off the skin allowing the layering ingredients to work more effectively. You should always perform a double cleanse. The first step of the double cleanse is to remove all oil, pollution, sunscreen and make-up off the skin. I would recommend Dermalogica’s PreCleanse. It is a phenomenal lightweight oil based cleanser that will bind all the oil and debris off the skin, allowing for a more concentrated cleanse with your second cleanse. Your second cleanse should be with a cleanser that is designed for an oily/break out prone skin, with a foam cleanser being best. I would advise to using a cleanser that is soap free, SD-alcohol free and free of artificial fragrances and colourings, such as Dermalogica’s Special Cleansing Gel. Exfoliation is key in maintaining the skin in having a healthy cell turn over. It helps with the maintenance of breakouts, congestions and spots. Try using an exfoliant that does not contain any granules. Hydroxy Acids in particular Salicylic Acid (great for breakouts as it is a fantastic decongestant of follicles) or digestive enzymes (pineapple or papaya), such as Dermalogica’s Gentle Cream Exfoliant. Never over exfoliate, 2 to 3 times a week is sufficient. Over exfoliation can sensitise and irritate the skin and cause more breakouts then less!
I would also encourage a masque for your chin area. I would recommend to use a clay based masque to control the sebum production. These in particular will really help with drawing out the impurities and minimising the oil flow. Some clay based masques contain salicylic acid and niacinamide to help with the congestion and breakouts. You would use the masque once you have exfoliated 2-3 times per week. Throughout the day you can use a medicated treatment that can be layered on underneath your moisturiser. It will help to clear breakouts, reduces congestion and controls oil production and shine, such as Dermalogica’s Clearing Mattifier. A mix of ingredients to look for is Niacinamide, Zinc Gluconate, Yeast Extract, Caffeine and Biotin to purify and inhibit overactive sebaceous glands (over active oil flow). Of an evening I would also recommend to use a medicated treatment to target and work on your concerns while you sleep. Dermalogica’s Overnight Clearing Gel is a great healer for breakouts, minimises the oil flow and contains hyaluronic acid to keep the skin from dehydration that is associated with clearing breakouts and congestion.
Above all, revisiting your treatment centre to speak with your skin therapist will be the best way to ensure the correct product regime for your skin.
All the very best, Emma.
Emma Hobson
Skin Expert
