Achieving Clear Skin: A Back-to-School Guide to Medical-Grade Skincare for Teenage Acne
How is it already time to be thinking of the back-to-school rush?! As you prepare to embark on a new and exciting school year, we know how essential it is for you to look and feel your best. One crucial aspect of that is maintaining healthy, glowing skin. Dealing with teenage acne can be a real struggle, but fear not, because we’ve got your back (and your face!). Let’s explore the best skincare for teenage acne, including a mix of Rejuvenation MD products and drugstore gems that work wonders. So, let’s dive into the world of medical-grade skincare and unleash the secrets to achieving radiant skin that will keep your confidence at an all-time high in the hallways!
Why Medical-Grade Skincare Trumps Over-the-Counter Products
First, let’s clarify why medical-grade skincare is superior to over-the-counter (OTC) products when it comes to treating acne. Medical-grade products are formulated with higher concentrations of active ingredients, backed by scientific research, and are often prescribed or recommended by healthcare professionals. These products penetrate deeper into the skin, targeting the root causes of acne and dullness, providing more effective and long-lasting results. These products have sophisticated formulations that take into consideration that acne prone skin can be treated without harsh formulations that cause sensitive skin. When treating teen acne, it’s important to remember that skin care products should be effective and gentle. The best acne treatment should strengthen the skin barrier, not compromise it.
Medical-Grade Skincare vs Mainstream Skincare
I love Sephora and Ulta for discovering new makeup brands. Their skincare products are fun, and while it’s possible to find products that work well for your skin, you won’t find sophisticated formulations with high concentrations of active ingredients that you will find in medical-grade skincare. In fact, you’ll end up paying a higher price tag for thoughtful marketing and trendy packaging.
Let’s do a quick real-world comparison looking at Vitamin C. There are so many different forms of Vitamin C. The most studied form of Vitamin C is L-Ascorbic Acid, and the most efficacious, highly-studied formula of a Vitamin C serum is the Vitamin C + E + Ferulic formulation. (1) L-Ascorbic Acid is most effective at a concentration of 10-20% and a low pH of 2.0-3.5 to ensure the Vitamin C is stable. My Rejuvenation MD C + E+ Ferulic Serum is clinically proven to help protect the skin against environmental free radicals that can cause sun damage.
OTC or mainstream brand Vitamin C products may contain lower or undisclosed concentrations of Vitamin C, have formulations that are not clinically proven or are unstable, use different forms of Vitamin C, or have packaging that may lead to oxidation.
Top Medical-Grade Skincare Products for Teenage Acne
Rejuvenation MD Gly/Sal 5-2 Cleanser
This powerhouse face wash is specifically designed to combat acne-prone skin. The unique combination of glycolic and salicylic acids gently exfoliates dead skin cells and unclogs pores, banishing dirt, excess oil, and impurities that cause pesky breakouts. As the first step in your skin care routine, the Gly/Sal 5-2 Cleanser will leave your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized, ready to face the day with confidence! By using this cleanser at night a few times a week you’ll treat any current breakouts and prevent new ones from arising. A little goes a long way! You only need a pea sized amount to cleanse the entire face. You can also use a small amount as a light mask one or two times a week. Just use a small amount and let it sit on the skin for 4-5 minutes then rinse away. The next day you’ll notice a great glow! It is also great used for stubborn back breakouts aka “Backne”.
Prescription Medications
Acne can range in severity, from mild acne to severe acne, and type, from blackheads to cystic acne. In some cases, acne may require a more personalized approach, which is where prescription medications come into play. Dr Chaudhary can assess your skin’s specific needs and prescribe treatments like topical retinoids, or antibiotics depending on the severity of your acne.
Rejuvenation MD Clean + Clear 5/2 Pads
These convenient pads are a must-have addition to your skincare routine. Infused with a blend of powerful exfoliating agents and soothing botanicals, the Clean + Clear 5/2 Pads help to prevent and treat acne breakouts, reduce inflammation, and improve overall skin texture. It’s a good idea to keep these handy in your gym bag for after gym class or after sports practices for a quick and effective refresh. These pads are formulated with:
- Salicylic acid – Removes surface oils and unclogs pores
- Glycolic Acid – Promotes exfoliation
- Witch Hazel – smooths and tones the skin
If I could bottle up my in-office Pigmentation Peel into a daily, at-home treatment, this would be it. If you suffer from face, back, or chest acne, use these pads to help remove bacteria and sweat that can irritate the complexion and cause inflammation. Say goodbye to acne & scarring and hello to glowing, blemish-free skin.
Hydrafacial MD
Looking to treat yourself to a medical-grade treatment in the office? The Hydrafacial MD is the answer! It’s a non-invasive, multi-step treatment that cleanses, exfoliates, extracts and hydrates your skin, leaving it radiant and clear. Teens can schedule appointments for Hydrafacial MD sessions at our office to treat their skin and boost their confidence and enjoy the gratification of the satisfaction of seeing all the gunk we remove collected in the gunk jar!
If receiving a Hydrafacial for the treatment of acne, we recommend a package of three with the addition of our clarifying booster and blue light LED therapy (2) which kills bacteria under the skin. Scheduling an appointment is as easy as acing your favorite subject! Just hop onto our website, shoot us a text, or give us a call, and our friendly staff will be more than happy to book a session for you at Rejuvenation MD Aesthetics & Vein Center in Asheboro or Greensboro, NC. Before your appointment, you can read more about the benefits of HydraFacial vs Regular Facial here!
The Importance of Daily Sunscreen Use
As you head back to school and continue with your daily activities, one skincare rule must never be forgotten – wear sunscreen! Sun protection is crucial to prevent sunburn, premature aging, and even reduce the risk of skin cancer. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, like the Rejuvenation MD Clear Matte SPF 50 or the Rosegold Tinted SPF 50, which not only shields your skin from harmful UV rays but also has niacinamides to help brighten the skin. If you’re not sure whether to choose a tinted vs untinted sunscreen, we’ve break down the details on our blog.
We know life as a teenager can sometimes feel like a rollercoaster ride – highs and lows, twists and turns. But don’t worry; your skin doesn’t have to go on that wild ride too! With the right skincare routine, you can achieve smooth, clear skin and only have to focus on a successful school year.
Combining Rejuvenation MD products with Drugstore Gems
While medical-grade skincare is undoubtedly preferred, we understand that some of you may have a soft spot for drugstore products. The good news is, there are some gems out there that can complement your Rejuvenation MD routine!
Drugstore Spot Treatment
Look for a spot treatment with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to zap the occasional breakout that may pop up uninvited.
Gentle Drugstore Cleanser
On days when you want a break from the 5/2 Gly Sal Cleanser, choose a mild, fragrance-free, gentle cleanser from the drugstore. Make sure it doesn’t contain harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin. One brand we like to recommend is CeraVe.
As you embark on your back-to-school journey, don’t let the stress of acne hold you back. With a combination of medical-grade skincare, like our Rejuvenation MD products, and your go-to drug store routine, you can conquer acne and embrace clear, radiant teenage skin. Don’t forget the importance of daily sunscreen and the biweekly or monthly Hydrafacial MD treatment.
Remember, we’re here for you every step of the way, providing physician guidance and top-notch skincare solutions to achieve healthy skin. Embrace the new school year with confidence, and may your skin be the envy of all your peers!
Remember, every individual’s skin is unique, and it’s essential to consult with a qualified aesthetic professional to determine the best course of action.
If you still have questions, leave a comment below, reach out on Instagram, or schedule a consultation at our Greensboro or Asheboro clinics. At Rejuvenation MD Aesthetics and Vein Center, we offer a range of in-office facial rejuvenation treatments and skincare products to help you maintain skin you love. Dr. Chaudhary can customize a treatment plan based on your unique needs and preferences, ensuring maximum comfort and safety.
Umbreen Chaudhary, MD
Umbreen Chaudhary is the founder of Rejuvenation MD Aesthetics & Vein Center and Rejuvenation MD Skincare. Dr. Chaudhary has over sixteen years of experience in aesthetic medicine and strives to provide natural-looking results to her patients.
Sources:
- Murray JC, Burch JA, Streilein RD, Iannacchione MA, Hall RP, Pinnell SR. A topical antioxidant solution containing vitamins C and E stabilized by ferulic acid provides protection for human skin against damage caused by ultraviolet irradiation. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2008 Sep;59(3):418-25. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2008.05.004. Epub 2008 Jul 7. PMID: 18603326.
- Gold MH, Andriessen A, Biron J, Andriessen H. Clinical Efficacy of Self-applied Blue Light Therapy for Mild-to-Moderate Facial Acne. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2009 Mar;2(3):44-50. PMID: 20729943; PMCID: PMC2923954.
