Acne is simply a genetic disease of the sebaceous hair follicle (sometimes called a pore). Each follicle contains a tiny hair and a sebaceous gland, which starts producing sebum at puberty. In non-acneic skin, sebum travels up the hair follicle to the skin’s surface. In acneic skin, the sebum gets trapped in the follicle. Enzymes from the bacteria split the sebum into free fatty acids that badly irritate the skin. When a break in the cell wall occurs, the free fatty acids and cellular debris cause inflammatory reactions.

There is no cure for acne. Acne sufferers can, however, achieve clear skin by controlling the factors that set off eruptions (see our Acne Client Education Handbook) and by using products that exfoliate dead skin cells, calm inflammation, kill the bacteria, absorb excess oil, and hydrate the skin. When applied topically, benzoyl peroxide (BP) acts as an antibacterial ingredient that successfully treats acne by penetrating the follicle and releasing oxygen. This oxygen acts like bleach by opening the acne impactions and killing the P. acnes bacteria (the bacteria that causes acne). This technique also reduces the level of free fatty acids and the level of skin infection. Your skin must acclimate to BP, because BP is very drying. It’s crucial to include Green Tea Gel, Recovery Gel Mask, and SPF 30 Lotion into your skin care regimen when using BP.

For more information, download our very helpful, complimentary Acne Client Education Handbook.