SKINCARE TOPIC: This/That Part II__Acne Edition ✨Cystic Inflammatory Acne: Usually due to overgrowth of the skin’s bacteria. This type gives highest risk of PIH/Scarring, so don't mess around. Could categorize as follows --Papules: patches of small, red zits that don’t make a head. Treat with BPO/SA + Topical Retinoids. If mod/severe, LOW threshold to see your doc and start prescription topical/PO meds. --Pustules: similar to whiteheads but angrier. Fluid is actually Pus. DO NOT POP these...much higher risk of scarring. Same tx as above. --Nodulocystic: most serious type and highest chance of scarring. --Product Recos: in bio under “acne” shelf ✨Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): due to overproduction of melanin in response to inflammation. This is NOT an acne scar and should resolve with time & SUN PROTECTION --Treatment includes gentle exfoliation, consider a short course of spot treatment with hydroquinone or tranexamic acid to help fade pigmentation. Prescription for retinA. --Product Recos: Skinmedica Lytera 2.0 (expensive but the best), @kiehls dark spot corrector contains glycolic acid, lactic acid, arbutin, vitamin C, & niacinamide. ✨Hormonal: Sudden onset of acne/zits most commonly in the lower face/neck for adults, T-zone for those in puberty. It’s common for women to have these around her period. Associated with PCOS. Can even recur in menopause. --Treatment includes Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO) + Topical retinoids. I’ve enjoyed @drzenovia BPO serum but there are many other options including @panoxyl @larocheposayusa @neutrogena - comes in 2.5,5,10%. 🩸 PROTIP: Try more aggressive regimen the week leading up to your period, would add Salicylic acid (SA) during this time. Outbreaks can improve 2-3 months after starting OCPs or Spironolactone. What would you like to see in part III???