If you've ever had acne - real acne, not a pre-period spot - you know how frustrating the search for a solution is. Le French Skin Care Blog recently dove deep into the science behind acne treatments. Here's an honest look at what works.
How acne really forms
Three things happening simultaneously: excess sebum production, clogged pores from dead skin cells, and bacterial proliferation. It's NOT a hygiene problem - washing more often makes things worse.
The treatment ladder
Topical treatments
Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinoids and niacinamide form the foundation.
Oral treatments
Antibiotics (short course), hormonal treatment, or isotretinoin for severe cases.
Supplements: the often-overlooked addition
Omega 3 - Powerful natural anti-inflammatory. Pure Omega 3 (90 softgels, €36.18) provides concentrated EPA/DHA.
Magnesium - Stress buffer that regulates cortisol and sebum production. Pure Magnesium (90 capsules, €14.43).
Calcium - Essential for skin cell renewal. Pure Calcium+ (90 tablets, €27.15).
Compare and save
Less than €80 for three months of basic supplements. On PharmaCompare, compare prices at Viata, Farmaline and Medi-Market.