Year round, acne is one of the most commonly searched skin concerns. However, it is a skin condition, and a complicated one at that – so questions are always best reserved for an expert.

High-strength treatments and the promise of fast-acting results can be very alluring to those battling blemishes. However, it can often further exasperate the condition, leaving the skin more susceptible to damage, inflammation and further breakouts, while worsening the appearance and feel.

It’s natural for clients to feel frustrated by blemishes taking up real estate and resort to a cocktail of creams. Where a professional can best help, is equipping themselves with the latest knowledge and products, in order to provide truly targeted and tailored treatments.

Ahead, Daniel Isaacs, Director of Research at Medik8, answers some of the most common questions about acne before introducing the latest innovation from Medik8.

Are there different types of acne?

Daniel: Acne can develop in lots of different areas, most commonly the face, back and chest. There are many different types of blemishes which accumulate to form acne; blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules and cysts. Different types of blemishes indicate a different type of acne and must be treated differently.

Can you please explain hormonal acne. What is it and what are some of the causes?

Hormonal acne is commonly caused by natural hormonal fluctuations that can occur at any time during a lifespan but namely puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Acne associated with these hormonal changes are often red, sore, and inflamed, and sometimes painful to the touch. Although hormones tend to level out in adulthood, they will still ebb and flow throughout the female monthly cycle and for males throughout the day. These fluctuations can spike oil production from time to time, causing your skin to become slightly oily at certain points during the month. This, teamed with the fact that skin cell turnover slows down as you mature, can increase your risk of blemishes. This is because dead skin cells stay attached to your complexion for longer and can easily become lodged inside a pore when the slightest amount of oil makes an appearance.

It’s also common for acne to run in the family causing a predisposition.

How do we know when we’re dealing with hormonal acne? What are some signs to look for?

Hormonal acne is usually characterised by tender, red breakouts around the jaw, mouth and chin. For some people, hormonal acne takes the form of blackheads, whiteheads, and small pimples that come to a head. For more advanced cases, cysts can form deep under the skin and don’t come to a head on the surface. It is also often accompanied by dryness and sensitivity, as hydration levels and the skin’s natural barrier tend to diminish as we get older.

Tell us about Medik8’s latest innovation Press & Clear…

A new and exciting addition to the BHA skincare space, Press & Clear is a ​​​2% salicylic acid toner featuring a truly unique pairing of slow-release encapsulation technology and a barrier-friendly pH 5.5. This combination results in a formula as gentle on the skin as it is effective in providing clinically proven, triple-action blemish care before, during and after blemishes occur.

As well as offering a targeted treatment for sensitive and blemish-prone skin types, Press & Clear is also ideal for those who wish to maintain a visibly clarified, balanced and healthy-looking complexion over time.

What’s sets Press & Clear apart from other blemish targeted toners on the market?

What’s different is that the salicylic acid in Press & Clear is non-irritating on the skin thanks to our unique, gentle release encapsulation system. The system slowly releases the salicylic acid to avoid causing any discomfort to sensitive, vulnerable skins while maintaining ongoing effectiveness. This means Press & Clear ensures a skin barrier-friendly experience, which can be applied up to twice per day.

About Medik8 Press & Clear

Medik8 adopted a cutting-edge approach to formulating Press & Clear, recognising that blemish-prone skin is sensitive skin – and should therefore be treated as such. While there’s a common misconception that salicylic acid needs to be at a low pH to be effective on the skin, Medik8’s research showed it is just as efficient at a more neutral pH of ~5.5 – and this alleviates the common pain points of BHAs such as dryness, general irritation and greasy textures.

How to use

After cleansing and pat drying the skin, press a cotton round onto Press & Clear and gently swipe over the face, avoiding the eye area. Focus on any areas of concern, like the forehead, nose, chin and cheeks. Follow with your serums and moisturiser.

The results

In a consumer study, Press & Clear’s results have been proven to;

• Visibly clarify the skin in just 7 days

• Visibly brighten the skin in just 7 days
• Leave the skin looking smoother in just 7 days
• Visibly decongest and minimise the appearance of pores in 2 weeks
• Maintain a visibly clear complexion, 1 month on from first use

What’s more, in line with Medik8’s ongoing sustainability mission, Press & Clear’s packaging is designed to help reduce plastic waste with a recyclable bottle and refillable option to accompany the reusable pump.

Medik8 Press & Clear is available now at clinics nationwide.

@medik8anz

*Proven via independent consumer study conducted on 52 participants with sensitive, blemish -prone skins.