At Almasi Skincare, we offer the best acne treatment in Nairobi, Kenya. This is because our comprehensive acne treatment program addresses all the causes and triggers of acne. It combines the use of prescription medications, dermatology procedures, non-prescription skin care products and lifestyle changes to help you attain and maintain a clear complexion.
What is Acne Vulgaris?
Acne or Acne Vulgaris is one of the most common skin diseases in Kenya and the rest of the world. It begins in the pilosebaceous unit which is commonly known as the skin pore, and consists of a hair follicle and a sebaceous or oil producing gland which are connected by a canal through which the hair passes to the skin’s surface.
Acne affects persons of all age groups from newborn babies (neonatal acne) to teenagers and adults of both sexes. Adult acne mainly affects Kenyan women in their 20s, 30s and 40s though it also affects men.
Causes of Acne in Kenya
Acne in Kenya is caused by a combination of the following factors:
1. Increased sebum (oil) production which is triggered by increased levels of androgens (male sex hormones) which are produced by adrenal glands in both men and women.
2. Clogging of the skin pore by dead skin cells
3. Increase in the population of the bacteria in the plugged pore as they feed on the sebum. This bacteria Cutibacterium acnes was formerly known as Propionibacterium acnes or P. acnes.
4. Inflammation which begins when the plugged pore bursts and releases its contents into the surrounding skin.
5. Genes also play a role since a person is more likely to develop acne vulgaris if their parents had it.
Triggers of Acne
Factors which can trigger or worsen acne in Kenya include the following:
1.Hormones
Acne usually begins at puberty when the production of male sex hormones (androgens) increases. This results in increased sebum production which clogs the skin pores and causes acne breakouts. Women in their 20s, 30s and 40s also develop acne due to the hormone changes that occur during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause.
2. Diet
Foods with a high glycemic index (GI) like sweets and cakes trigger acne because they result in high insulin levels which trigger the release of the hormones that increase oil production by the skin.
3. Stress
A study published in the Archives of Dermatology proved that stress and acne are related. This relationship is due to the fact that when a person is stressed, their body produces the stress hormone cortisol which results in an increase in the amount of oil that their skin produces. This excessive oil can clog the skin pores and cause acne breakouts.
4. Skincare habits
Skin care habits that contribute to the development of acne include using oil-rich cosmetics and skincare products since they clog the skin pores and cause breakouts. Other comedogenic ingredients in skincare products that can trigger acne include synthetic lanolins like acetylated lanoline, botanicals like algae extract, mineral oil and natural oils like cocoa butter and coconut oil.
5. Hair care habits
Hair care habits that contribute to the development of acne in Kenya include styling the hair with fringes since this brings the hair products to the face where they clog the skin pores.
Acne can also be triggered by chemicals like prescription medications, chloracne and anabolic steroids as well as mechanical forces like friction. To learn about these triggers and the types of acne they cause, click here to read 20 Types of Acne.
Symptoms of Acne in Kenya
This symptoms of acne in Kenya include:
1. Closed comedones which are also known as white heads.
2. Open comedones which are also known as black heads.
3. Papules which are small swellings that are commonly known as pimples.
4. Pustules which are small swellings that are filled with pus.
5. Nodules which are large solid swellings.
6. Cysts which are large swellings that are filled with fluid.
7. Scars which develop after the inflammation of acne.
8. Hyperpigmentation which are the dark spots and patches that develop on the skin after the acne has healed.
These symptoms of acne usually develop on the face and other areas of the body with a high concentration of oil glands like the upper chest, back and shoulders.
Acne Diagnosis
The diagnosis of acne vulgaris is made clinically by the Acne Doctor in Kenya after they listen to the patient’s history and examine their skin.
The Best Acne Treatment in Nairobi, Kenya
The best acne treatment in Nairobi, Kenya and the rest of the world works on the causes of acne by reducing sebum production, unclogging the skin pores, lowering the population of the acne causing bacteria and reducing inflammation.
The choice of the best acne treatment in Nairobi, Kenya depends on the patient’s age, the affected site and its severity. This treatment includes the use of non-prescription skin care products, prescription medications, dermatology procedures and lifestyle changes.
Non-Prescription Skincare Products for Acne Treatment in Nairobi, Kenya
Non-prescription skin care products that are used to treat acne include soaps, face washes, moisturizers and gels with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, suflur, resorcinol, retinols and azelaic acid.
Salicylic Acid Skincare Products for Acne Treatment
Salicylic acid is a vital ingredient for over-the-counter skincare products used to treat acne because it reduces inflammation, exfoliates the skin and penetrates deep into the pores to unclog them. Products with salicylic acid include the following:
Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Wash
Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Moisturizer
Hazellic soap
Neutrogena Rapid Clear 2 in 1 Fight and Fade Toner
You can buy these salicylic acid acne treatment products in Kenya from our Nairobi Almasi Skincare Shop located on Moi Avenue, Sawa Mall, 3rd floor, Shop C15. Call 0721963156 or WhatsApp 254 721 963 156 to order. We deliver countrywide/worldwide.
Benzoyl Peroxide Skincare Products for Acne Treatment
Benzoyl peroxide is an antimicrobial which is applied on the skin to treat mild to moderate acne. It reduces the population of the P. acnes bacteria and decreases the development of antibiotic resistance when used together with antibiotics. Benzoyl peroxide also reduces inflammation and prevents dead skin cells from clogging skin pores. It comes in different concentrations and it is advisable to begin with the lowest concentration since it can cause dryness of the skin. Benzoyl peroxide also makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight and thus it should be used together with a noncomedogenic sunscreen. Products with benzoyl peroxide include the following:
Panoxyl Acne Foaming Wash
Cerave Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser
Oxy-10
Clean and Clear Acne Cleanser
Glytone
You can buy these salicylic acid acne treatment products in Kenya from our Nairobi Almasi Skincare Shop.
Sulfur Skincare Products
Sulfur skincare products are used to treat acne because they lower the population of bacteria and prevent plugging of the skin pores. Their side effects include an unpleasant odor and discoloring the skin.
Azelaic Acid Skincare Products
Azelaic acid at 10% concentration is used to treat mild acne because it has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is often used by person who cannot tolerate the skin irritation and pain caused by benzoyl peroxide or topical retinoids. The 10% concentration has been found to be effective for acne treatment. Examples include The Ordinary 10% Azelaic Acid Suspension.
Side effects of azelaic acid include burning or stinging sensations, itchiness and dryness of the skin. It is safe to use when pregnant or breastfeeding.
Retinol Skincare Products for Acne Treatment
Retinols are vitamin A derivatives used to treat acne because they unclog skin pores and clear up blackheads. In addition, they stimulate collagen which helps fade acne scars. They have also been clinically proven to reduce pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles. Over-the-counter retinols have low concentrations of 0.5% -2.5% which makes them less likely to cause adverse effects of redness, peeling and irritation. Examples of retinols include Amara Organics Retinol 2.5% Serum
Non-Prescription Retinoids for Acne Treatment
Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives but they are stronger than retinols. They are very effective for acne treatment since they unclog the pores, lower sebum and reduce inflammation. Examples of non-prescription retinoids include Differin Gel which contains 0.1% adapalene. It was previously only available by prescription for acne treatment but can now be purchased over-the-counter. Differin Gel can be purchased from our Nairobi Almasi Skincare Shop.
Click here to read The Differin Gel Review
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Prescription Medications for Acne Treatment in Nairobi, Kenya
Prescription medications used for acne treatment in Kenya include topical medications applied on the skin and systemic medications taken by mouth as well as intra-lesional injections which are injected into the acne lesions.
Topical Antibiotics for Acne Treatment
Topical antibiotics are some of the best treat for acne that is mild to moderate in severity because they reduce inflammation and lower the population of the bacteria P. acnes on the skin and in the skin pores. These antibiotics should always be combined with another acne medication like benzoyl peroxide or a topical retinoid to prevent the bacteria from developing resistance to them.
Side effects of antibiotics applied on the skin to treat acne include dryness of the skin. These antibiotics can also cause contact dermatitis. Examples of topical antibiotics include clindamycin and erythromycin.
Topical Azelaic Acid for Acne Treatment
A study found that 15% Azelaic acid is effective tratment for mild to moderate acne in adult females. 20% Azelaic acid is also used twice a day to treat acne. These prescription strength concentrations must be obtained through a Doctor’s prescription. It is safe to use when pregnant or breastfeeding.
Topical Dapsone for Acne Treatment
5% Dapsone is applied on the skin to treat inflammatory acne especially in women because it has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Topical Retinoids for Acne Treatment
Topical retinoids are derived from vitamin A and they increase the rate of shedding of the skin cells by reducing the cohesiveness of the skin cells. This helps manage acne by reducing the clogging of the skin pores. Retinoids also prevent plugging of the skin pores by normalizing the shedding of dead skin cell. They also have anti-inflammatory properties, reduce sebum production and prevent the formation of comedones.
Retinoids are best applied at night after cleansing the skin. They should not be used by pregnant and nursing (lactating) women. Side effects of topical retinoids include redness, dryness and itchiness of the skin. Examples of topical retinoids include adapalene.
Topical Clascoterone for Acne Treatment
Clascoterone is used to treat moderate to severe acne. It targets the hormones that cause acne and reduces acne in both males and females aged above 12 years.
Systemic Antibiotics for Acne Treatment
Systemic antibiotics are some of the best treat for acne that is moderate to severe because they circulate in the blood to the deep layers of the skin where they tackle deep-seated acne. They have anti-inflammatory properties and they also reduce the population of the bacteria P. acnes. They may have to be taken for upto 6 months for the treatment of acne.
Side effects of oral antibiotics include drug allergies which can be mild or severe like toxic epidermal necrolysis. Other side effects of oral antibiotics used to treat acne include nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. They can also make the skin more sensitive to light. Examples include erythromycin, tetracycline, minocycline and doxycycline.
Systemic Retinoids for Acne Treatment
Systemic retinoids are the best treat for acne that is severe. They are taken by mouth for severe nodulocystic acne treatment in Kenya and other countries. These vitamin A derivatives are also used for the treatment of acne that does not respond to other treatment. They have anti-inflammatory properties and reduce oil production. They also decrease the formation of white heads and black heads.
These medications have multiple adverse effects like cheilitis (dry lips), xerosis (dry skin), dry eyes, joint pains, depression and decreased night vision. They also increase the risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease. Triglyceride levels and liver enzymes are also increased in persons taking this medication.
Systemic retinoids should be used together with two methods of contraception by women during the entire treatment period since they cause severe birth defects. Persons taking oral retinoids should avoid taking vitamin A supplements as this can lead to vitamin A toxicity. Examples include Isotretinoin.
Oral Contraceptives for Acne Treatment
Oral contraceptives or birth control pills are used for treating adult acne in Kenya. They work by countering the effects of male hormones like testosterone on acne. They are especially useful for hormonal acne treatment and treating acne caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). They should be avoided by smokers over 35 years old who have a history of migraines and blood clotting disorders.
Side effects of oral contraceptives include blood clots, nausea, breast tenderness and spotting. Examples include Ortho Tri-Cyclene which is a combination of ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate.
Co-cyprindiol contains ethinylestradiol which is an estrogen and cyproterone which is anti-androgen which reduces sebum production. It is used as treatment for hormonal acne and severe acne that does not respond to antibiotics. Its side effects include blod clots, headaches, mood changes, weight changes and an increased risk for developing breast cancer.
Spironolactone for Acne Treatment
Diuretics like spironolactone which is a potassium sparing diuretic used for kidney disease. It is used to treat acne since it blocks the effects of the androgen hormones on the oil glnds in the skin.
Dermatological Procedures for Acne Treatment in Nairobi, Kenya
Dermatological procedures used for acne treatment include microdermabrasion, chemical peels, comedone extractions, laser therapy and light therapy.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a procedure in which a device with a diamond tip is used to remove the dead cells on the surface of the skin. These dead cells are gently removed by using a combination of mild abrasion and gentle suction.
Microdermabrasion has been medically proven to be effective for the treatment of acne since this study found that 38% of acne patients who received weekly microdermabrasion treatments had excellent results, 34% good results and 17% fair results. These results of microdermabrasion include a glowing complexion which has fever acne lesions and a more even tone. Enlarged skin pores are also reduced in size.
Benefits of Microdermabrasion for Acne Treatment:
* Unclogs pores and thus helps to treat acne and prevent future breakouts
* Minimizes the discoloration caused by acne hyperpigmentation (acne marks)
* Reduces the appearance of superficial acne scars
* Unclogs pores and thus helps them appear smaller
* Removes dead layer of skin cells which make the skin appear brighter and more youthful
* Removes dead layer of skin cells which make the skin more even toned
* Removes dead layer of skin cells which enhances absorption of skincare products
* Stimulates production of collagen and elastin which aids the skin healing process
* Stimulates production of collagen and elastin which helps the skin look firmer
* The gentle vacuuming pressure boosts blood circulation in the skin which enhances nutrient delivery
* No down time required for healing
* Does not cause scarring
* Painless procedure
* Suitable for all skin types
Though these effects can be seen after the first treatment, a series of 3-4 treatments is required for optimum benefits. After the procedure the skin feels dry and tight but this resolves in a few days and it can be reduced by applying a moisturizer.
At Almasi Skincare we offer microdermabrasion for acne treatment in Nairobi, Kenya.
Comedone Extractions
Acne breakouts develop when the pilosebaceous unit (skin pore) is blocked and comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) form. Comedone extraction is a procedure done to remove these blockages from the pores. In this procedure, a special tool known as a comedone extractor is used to physically to remove the dead skin cells and sebum that block the skin pore. Comedone extraction results in rapid improvement of the acne. It should be repeated monthly as new comedones form. Comedone extaction should only be done on acne lesions that are not inflamed and by a trained person to prevent adverse effects. These adverse effects include pain, scarring and infection.
At Almasi Skincare we offer comedone extractions for acne treatment in Nairobi, Kenya.
Intralesional Steroid Injections
Intralesional steroid injections are medications that are injected into the acne cysts. These medications are used to reduce inflammation in the cysts and prevent scarring. Intralesional injections result in rapid resolution of the acne lesions because the steroid medication bypasses the barrier formed by the different layers of skin and the injection delivers a high concentration of it right into the acne lesion. Patients experience symptomatic relief within 24 hours and the cyst flattens within 3 days. Adverse effects of intralesional steroid injections include pain, skin atrophy, hypopigmentation (skin lightening), depressed scars, bleeding and infection.
At Almasi Skincare we offer intralesional steroid injections for acne treatment in Nairobi, Kenya.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are special solutions which are applied to the skin to remove the top layer of dead cells by loosening the glue that holds the cells together. This helps unblock the pores and leaves the skin with a more youthful appearance. It also stimulates collagen production and helps the skin continue looking firmer. Chemical peels also help other treatment and skin care products penetrate the skin better.
Superficial or mild chemical peels are done with chemicals like salicylic acid which is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA). Medium-depth chemical peels are done with chemicals like glycolic acid which is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). Deep chemical peels are usually done with chemicals like trichloroacetic acid.
At Almasi Skincare we offer chemical peels for acne treatment.
Laser Therapy for Acne Treatment in Kenya
Laser therapy with the pulsed dye laser has been used successfully for the management of inflammatory acne.
Light Therapy for Acne Treatment in Kenya
Light therapy with blue light and red light has also been shown to be effective for acne treatment.
Lifestyle Changes for Acne Treatment
Lifestyle changes that are used to treat acne include:
Using Non-Comedogenic Skin Care Products
Use cleansers, moisturizers and other skin care products which are formulated for acne or oily skin types. These products should be labeled “noncomedogenic” which means they will not clog the skin pores.
Cleanse Twice A Day
Cleanse your skin in the morning and evening to remove the build up of oils, dirt and sweat and reduce clogging of the skin pores. Do not cleanse more than twice a day as this can contribute to the development of detergens acne. As you cleanse avoid harsh soaps which strip off the skin’s moisture. Instead, use a gentle cleanser that is both oil-free, pH balanced and has acne treatment ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. These products can be purchased from the Nairobi Almasi Skincare Products Store.
Use Sunscreen
Sunscreens protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s ray. They are important in acne treatment since especially since some acne medications make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. They also prevent the dark marks from healed acne lesions from darkening further. When buying sunscreen, choose an oil free, noncomedogenic sunscreen which offers broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection. Aim for a SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 or above.
Examples include Neutrogena Age Shield Face Lotion has a SPF of 110 and Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen has a SPF of 55. Both these sunscreens can be purchased from the Nairobi Almasi Skincare Products Store.
Click here to read The Best Sunscreens in Kenya
Do Not Squeeze Pimples
Do not pick or scratch or rub or squeeze your pimples. Squeezing forces infected material deeper into the skin causing additional inflammation, infection and acne scars.
Instead of squeezing pimples with your fingers use a comedone extractor. You can purchase one from the Nairobi Almasi Skincare Products Store.
Use Non-Comedogenic Makeup
Avoid using makeup especially during acne flares. If you must wear makeup, use water based, noncomedogenic, hypoallergenic, fragrance free formulations. If possible makeup that contains ingredients like salicylic acid and sulfur as these help control acne. At the end of the day, wash off the makeup and never sleep with it as this greatly contributes to clogging pores. Remove it with an oil free makeup remover then cleanse and moisturize your skin.
Click here to read The Best Acne Makeup Products in Kenya
Ensure that you also wash your brushes frequently and replace the sponges regularly to avoid spreading bacteria. If possible, apply your makeup with clean cotton wool balls that you can dispose after a single use.
Keep Your Hair Off Your Face
Keep your hair off your face by avoiding fringes, bangs and other hairstyles that cover your face with hair as the hair products can clog the skin pores on the face. You should also avoid using oily hair sprays and greasy hair oils that run down to your forehead and clog the pores. In addition to keeping your hair off your face, keep your hands away from your face.
Manage Stress Effectively
Studies have shown that acne worsens when a person is going through a stressful period. Therefore manage stress effectively by dealing with the root cause, exercising regularly and practicing relaxation techniques.
Eat Low GI Foods
Studies have linked high GI (glycemic index) foods like cakes and sweets to acne. Therefore eat low GI foods like fruits and vegetables.
Acne Complications
The complications of acne include
Acne scars
At Almasi Skincare we offer treatment for acne scars.
Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (acne marks)
At Almasi Skincare we offer treatment for post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Post inflammatory erythema
Low self-esteem
Depression
