Acne vulgaris is a common skin inflammatory condition which occurs when hair follicles become plugged with excess oil (sebum) and dead skin cells. This creates an ideal environment for bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes) to thrive, leading to inflammation and various lesions like whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts.
Underlying Causes of Acne
There are a number of key causes of Acne Vulgaris:
- Genetic Predisposition. A family history of acne is a well known cause. Genetics can dictate sebum production levels, hormonal sensitivity, and the skin’s inflammatory response. All of which are central to the development of acne.
- Digestive / Gut System. The concept of the “gut-skin axis” significantly influences skin conditions, research has established a direct link between gut health and skin and bone conditions:
- Inflammation. An imbalanced gut microbiome (dysbiosis) can often lead to systemic inflammation, which can manifest itself as skin inflammation and make acne worse.
- Nutrient Absorption. A gut with poor microbiome might affect the absorption of nutrients essential for skin health (e.g. zinc, vitamins).
- Hormonal Balance. Gut health directly influences hormonal balance which in turn impacts sebum production.
- Skin Microbiome. The microorganisms living on the skin’s surface play a crucial role in its health:
- Dysbiosis. While Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes) is a key player, it’s not just its presence but the skin’s overall microbial community imbalance that can contribute to acne. Also, certain strains of C. acnes can be more inflammatory, and other microbes might exacerbate or protect against further breakouts.
- Barrier Function. A healthy skin microbiome supports the skin’s barrier function. This is vital to prevent irritation and inflammation that can cause acne.
- Excess Sebum Production. Excess sebum production is primarily driven by hormonal changes, particularly androgens (like testosterone) which increase during puberty, pregnancy, or in conditions like PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome).
- Clogged Hair Follicles. Clogged hair follicls caused by a combination of sticky dead skin cells and excess sebum clogs pores.
- Bacteria (C. acnes). C. acnes, naturally present on the skin can multiply in clogged, oxygen-poor follicles which triggers inflammation.
- Inflammation. Inflammation is the body’s immune response to bacteria and clogged follicles.
- Other Triggers. Other potential triggers include certain medications (e.g. corticosteroids), high glycaemic loaded diets, stress, and friction / pressure on the skin can all trigger or worsen acne.
Consequences of Acne
Beyond the physical discomfort, acne significantly impacting the quality of life of the sufferers:
- Physical. Untreated severe acne can lead to permanent scarring (icepick, pitted, boxcar, and rolling scars) and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (darkened spots).
- Psychosocial. Acne can cause enormous emotional distress, including low self-esteem, poor self-image, embarrassment, anxiety, depression, social isolation, and even suicidal tendencies in severe cases. Adults with acne may face many psychological challenges feeling their condition is “not normal” and impacting their professional and social interactions.
Recommended Treatment
A high quality ozonated oil´s main properties are antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, regenerative and antioxidant properties. Given the unique characteristics of acne, a tailored approach to treatment and skincare can be quite beneficial. Our products provide a routine that focuses cleansing, reducing inflammation, moisturizing, treating and promoting skin regeneration, which aligns with the needs of acne-prone skin.
Treatment for Removing Acne
- Morning:
- Gentle cleansing using with a gentle cleanser such as Ozonated Repair Soap Bar
- Follow with an application of Repair Oil
- (A toner and/or a non-comedogenic sunscreen are optional).
- Evening:
- Thoroughly cleanse with a gentle cleanser such as Ozonated Repair Soap Bar
- Apply Repair Oil to problematic areas or the entire face, massaging gently.
- Follow with Repair Night Cream as the last step.
- Duration: as long as necessary. It could be several weeks, several months or longer.
Integrated Daily Routine & Preventative Acne Management
- Morning:
- Gentle cleansing using with a gentle cleanser such as Ozonated Repair Soap Bar
- Follow with a light application of Repair Oil
- (A toner and/or a non-comedogenic sunscreen are optional)
- Evening:
- Thoroughly cleanse with a gentle cleanser such as Ozonated Repair Soap Bar
- Follow with Repair Night Cream as the last step.
- Duration: daily routine.
For More Severe or Persistent Acne
- Morning:
- Gentle cleansing using with a gentle cleanser such as Ozonated Repair Soap Bar
- Follow with an application of Care&Repair 800PV or Purify&Repair 1200PV
- (A toner and/or a non-comedogenic sunscreen are optional)
- Evening:
- Thoroughly cleanse with a gentle cleanser such as Ozonated Repair Soap Bar
- Follow with an application of Care&Repair 800PV or Purify&Repair 1200PV
- Follow with Repair Night Cream as the last step.
- Duration: as long as necessary. It could be several weeks, several months or longer.
This approach, which addresses cleansing, reducing inflammation, moisturizing, treating and promoting skin regeneration, is very beneficial for managing acne, particularly in individuals who experience the inflammatory and persistent nature of the condition. A consistent daily routine is recommended for preventative management.
References
- The Gut-Skin-Bone Axis and Ozonated Oil
- Travagli V, Zanardi I, Valacchi G, Bocci V. Ozone and ozonated oils in skin diseases: a review. Mediators Inflamm. 2010;2010:610418. doi: 10.1155/2010/610418. Epub 2010 Jul 4. PMID: 20671923; PMCID: PMC2910505.
- De Pessemier B, Grine L, Debaere M, Maes A, Paetzold B, Callewaert C. Gut-Skin Axis: Current Knowledge of the Interrelationship between Microbial Dysbiosis and Skin Conditions. Microorganisms. 2021 Feb 11;9(2):353. doi: 10.3390/microorganisms9020353. PMID: 33670115; PMCID: PMC7916842.
- Schaefer, S. L., Chella, S., Bakaa, E., Yarbrough, A., & Das, S. (2024). The Bidirectional Gut-Skin Axis- Emerging Evidence and Potential Skin Health Implications. Journal of Cosmetic Science, 75(6), 633–659.