Aestheticians and Acne

When we, or a teen we love, has an outbreak of acne, what is our first consultation? A dermatologist, of course. But were you aware that an important partner with you and the dermatologist is a licensed aesthetician? 

Aestheticians have a level of knowledge concerning skin abnormalities and their treatment that is different than that of a dermatologist. They often have the products and equipment helpful in treating acne that is unavailable at a dermatologist's office. Clearing the acne and preventing acne scarring--that’s the goal. 

Medically speaking, acne is defined as a chronic skin condition induced by several main factors, which include: 

• Excess oil (sebum) produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin, proliferation of the skin bacteria Cutibacterium acnes, abnormal shedding of skin cells, and inflammation
• Genetics, diet, and hormone fluctuations
• Skincare routine 
• Certain medications
• Stress
• Friction from hands, hair, helmets, etc.
• Excessive use of low-quality face make-up

Treatment options can include:

• Over-the-Counter acne treatments that contain Benzoyl Peroxide, Salicylic Acid, or Alpha Hydroxy Acids
• Prescription-only topical and oral products that can be prescribed by a dermatologist, depending on the length and severity of the outbreak. 

We naturally cleanse the face daily to help clear the acne, but we have choices to make: what is a quality cleanser, how often should I cleanse, scrub or gently wash, should I pick at the lesions to open them? At this point, your Aesthetician is your invaluable partner in the fight against acne. They are acne experts and will recommend use of a specifically formulated regimen of quality skincare products tailored for your specific acne symptoms. They may recommend ‘expressing’ the acne bumps, which can open pores and clear out excessive sebaceous oils. Use of lasers or various radiofrequency tools can also be effective for acne treatment and are frequently utilized. 

A handy line to remember, (or to remind your teen) is: “Hair back, hands down, cleans daily, light make-up, quality product, follow doctor’s orders.” 

At the Beals Skin and Laser Center, your aesthetician will choose the modalities that are best for your treatment based on your specific skin type and acne severity. We can help your skin look great and be healthy. Call Beals Skin and Laser Center at (480) 947-6788 for your consultation with one of our experienced Aestheticians. 

Written by Gina Viviano, RN, LA

Medically reviewed by Stephen P. Beals, MD

Gina is the Director of the Stephen P. Beals Skin and Laser Center, Paradise Valley, AZ
Dermatology, nursing, and skincare have been professional passions for her entire career.