Acne is such a common medical skin condition that many people don’t even consider it as such (even though it is one of the named 3,000+ diagnosable dermatological conditions). VIDA has all of the tools you need to treat active breakouts and prevent future ones including BBL, chemical peels, and microneedling. We are more than a medical day spa. Led by Dr. Glen who personally trains the entire staff, we are committed to helping you achieve brighter, clearer, more youthful skin and that often includes tackling a variety of skin conditions.
In the past two years, acne problems spiked for a number of healthcare workers (and many others). A recent study found that 20 percent of physicians report that acne has a negative impact on their professional lives. The full findings can be found in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology where Turkish researchers surveyed almost 200 doctors to find out more about how acne is impacting their lives during the pandemic. One author detailed how COVID-related factors might inform acne, such as stress, the use of PPE (including masks), and a spike in hand hygiene best practices. As you can imagine, these factors are also likely common for everyone, not just healthcare workers.
Early Reports on Acne
Similarly, earlier reports revealed that mask-wearing was linked to acne, although these researchers stress that such research missed details like how long masks had been used and the types of masks. Plus, there has been a huge influx in different mask materials and designs since spring of 2020, making it nearly impossible to gauge and compare all of the most popular masks on the market for their acne exacerbation capacity.
The researchers in Turkey talked to healthcare workers about their acne since the onset of COVID, as well as acne history, stress levels, and what types of masks they use and in what manner. In total, 172 physicians were polled in November/December 2020. Most (159) were women, with a mean age of 35, and all had some experience with acne pre-pandemic (not all men had a prior history of acne). However, 27.33 percent reported that their acne had “relapsed” during COVID and 7.56 percent (all men) said this was their first time with acne.
Treating and Preventing Acne
Of course, surgical mask usage was very common and 89.13 percent of respondents said their acne was either triggered or made worse by these masks. There was no indication of acne impact related to “mask breaks,” and layering masks also didn’t seem to make a difference. Most participants of course reported an increase in stress, although those with an increased acne problem reported the highest stress levels. There was also an increased self-reporting of eating food with a high glycemic index (which is one of many potential triggers in acne).
The most common area for reported acne was the chin followed by the cheeks, two areas covered by a mask. According to researchers, these findings suggest that there is a myriad of factors linked to more acne problems during COVID. Those with acne prior to the pandemic, adult-onset acne, and the presence of acne scars were all at a higher risk. The researchers stress that while the study was small, it should be considered a warning in the many ways acne can increase stress amongst healthcare workers—however, it is a cycle. Stress is also a known, big factor in triggering and exacerbating acne.
Treating Your Acne
If you’re struggling with acne, whether brought on or worsened by the pandemic or not, treatments are available. In addition to topicals and potentially prescribed medications, BBL, peels, and microneedling can all serve as fantastic measures. BBL can treat and help to prevent acne, while peels and microneedling can vanquish the lingering signs of acne including hyperpigmentation and scarring. Complimentary consultations are available on all treatments, including acne treatments at VIDA.
Acne is often considered harmless, but more severe forms of acne (such as cystic acne) can be painful. All types of acne an be detrimental to self-esteem and confidence. Mask-wearing isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, so it’s time to get that acne cleared up in 2022. Contact VIDA to schedule your acne consult and learn more about BBL, chemical peels, and microneedling. Call the office today, or for the quickest response complete the online contact form.
