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It is our goal to provide you with health and wellness resources as well as add additional value to your current CallonDoc subscription. This is the first of monthly emails to help you manage your long-term health.

Next month we will be sending you some additional resources in case you're looking for more support.

Scientifically known as acne vulgaris, acne earns its vulgar reputation by being the most common skin disorder in the United States. Not only affecting millions of teens, but the condition is also prevalent in half of American adults today, some developing it for the first time well into adulthood.

Acne is one of the only reactions of the human body that uses internal and external stimuli, meaning that how it develops depends on what goes on inside and outside your body. For everyone, it’s not just necessarily because of one internal or external factor but typically a combination of both.

While that might not make breakouts any less frustrating, the sheer number of cases has allowed doctors to understand how acne happens. That is, due to our sebum production and hormone fluctuations including estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone.

Causing our faces and hands to feel oily, sebum is responsible for lubricating the skin. While it is normal and healthy to produce natural oils, it can also mix with dead skin cells and aid in clogging pores. This in turn can cause:

More on Acne

Like many conditions, acne can be hereditary and can stem from your genes. While you can't control some causes, there are many things you can do to reduce and prevent breakouts. Some things you can do are:

Avoid certain foods

here are several ways in which food contributes to acne development. Some foods to avoid include:

Medication

In some cases for persistent acne, you can review your acne symptoms with an online board-certified dermatologist to create a custom treatment plan. Many patients can find success with a daily topical ointment or oral medication such as spironolactone.

Manage stress and anxiety

Stress can contribute to developing or worsening acne in several ways. When you're under stress, your body produces the hormone cortisol, which can increase sebum production, the oily substance that can clog pores and lead to acne. Additionally, stress can trigger the release of other hormones, such as androgens, which can further increase sebum production and inflammation in the skin.

Avoid touching your face

Monitoring and reducing the number of times you touch your face can be important for preventing acne breakouts. When you touch your face, you transfer oil, bacteria, and other substances from your hands to your skin, which can clog pores and contribute to acne development. Additionally, introducing some substances and surfaces to your face can introduce just as bad or worse of a breakout. Therefore, those who regularly work with dirt, greasy substances, or have foreign objects touch their face should consider washing their face regularly.

Stop popping acne

popping pimples is a common practice among many people with acne, but it is generally not recommended by dermatologists and skincare professionals. Doing so can lead to further inflammation and irritation and even cause scarring or hyperpigmentation. When done incorrectly, you are essentially forcing bacteria and debris deeper into the skin, which can make the pimple even more inflamed and difficult to heal. Additionally, popping a pimple can spread bacteria to other areas of your face and cause new pimples to form. Instead of popping pimples, it is recommended to use topical treatments such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to help reduce inflammation and clear up acne.

Be mindful of the sun

Sun exposure can have positive and negative effects on acne-prone skin. On the positive side, exposure to the sun's UV rays can temporarily reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne. However, prolonged exposure to the sun can also cause skin damage and worsen acne symptoms. This is because UV rays can increase sebum production in the skin, which can clog pores and lead to more acne breakouts. Additionally, some sunscreen formulations can be comedogenic, meaning they can clog pores and contribute to acne development. To protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun without exacerbating acne symptoms, it's essential to use a non-comedogenic sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.This can help to prevent sun damage and reduce the risk of acne breakouts.

Check your skincare products

Skincare products that contain oil can also increase the production of sebum, which is the skin's natural oil. This can make the skin more oily and increase the risk of acne breakouts. Using oil-free skincare products can help to prevent clogged pores and reduce the amount of sebum on the skin. Additionally, products that are specifically designed for acne-prone skin may contain active ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which can help to clear up existing acne and prevent new breakouts from forming.

Wash your face regularly

Washing your face is an integral part of any acne treatment routine because it helps to remove excess oil, dirt, and other debris from the skin. Oil and dirt accumulating on the skin can serve the same role as dead skin cells and clog pores. Regularly washing your face can help to prevent such buildup and reduce breakouts. Additionally, washing your face can help to remove makeup and other products that can contribute to clogged pores. However, it's important to use a gentle cleanser and not over-wash your face, as this can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to increased sebum production, exacerbating acne symptoms. It's also important to avoid scrubbing or using harsh exfoliants, as this can irritate the skin and worsen inflammation.


Acne Myths vs Facts

We're so excited to share that Listen to what our dermatologist has to say!

Fortunately, CallonDoc will be with you every step of the way to help you get your acne under control. We hope you join us next month as we share many of the helpful programs and resources to help you achieve clearer skin!


Coming Soon

We're so excited to share that dermatology products will be available soon to add to your skincare routine!
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