A disease process which involves the hair follicles and sebaceous glands characterized by comedones (black heads), papules, pustules or cysts appearing on the face, neck, chest and back.

Acne is related primarily to hormonal changes that occur during adolescence. In most cases, acne appears at 12-14 years of age. Acne can become quite severe after a number of years, between the ages of 15-19 following which there is a gradual improvement and disappearance of the lesions usually in the mid 20's.

Acne can persist, in a minority of patients, into the 40's.
Acne is now highly treatable, sometimes preventable and even curable. Although this skin disorder is very common and many individuals outgrow it as they enter adulthood, treatment is necessary to prevent the development of scars. Also the emotional anguish of acne sufferers can be eliminated by improving their skin condition and appearance through treatment. Acne affects 17 million people and is the most common dermatological condition treated by physicians in the United States.
What causes acne?

• Rapid cell growth stimulated by hormones
• Bacteria trapped in follicles
• Increase of sebum and the accumulation of dead skin cells

Grades of Acne

Grade One Acne (non-inflammatory) - mild

Consists mainly of blackheads (open comedones) and whiteheads, (closed comedones) with an occasional inflammatory lesion.

Grade Two Acne (non-inflammatory) - mild

Consists mainly of whiteheads (closed comedones) and is the most difficult form of acne to treat.

Grade Three Acne (inflammatory) - moderate to severe

Consists of inflamed lesions (papules and pustules) mixed with milder non-inflamed lesions. Responds well to topical treatments.

Grade Four Acne (inflammatory) - severe

Consists primarily of cysts and all inflammatory, non-inflammatory lesions. Typically is characterized by severe inflammation and purplish discoloration. Generally responds well to aggressive topical treatments but may require systemic medications in some cases. This form of acne is the most disfiguring due to scar formation.

Intaglio Acne Therapy Treatments

Salicylic Acid- is effective due to the anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. The Intaglio Clear Sal Cleanser-2 cleanses the surface of the skin of excess dry cells and bacteria and reduces the swelling around the pores  

Glycolic Acid- considered a medical miracle for acne skin types. Due to the fact that most acne sufferers have skin plugs trapped sebum, dead cells and bacteria it is difficult to reach the root of the problem without glycolic acid:

• Glycolic acid looses the dead skin cells by breaking down the inter cellular glue that holds them together (lipids) to unclog the pores and remove bacteria and prevent the spread of infections

Vitamin A regulates the rate of reproduction of cells within the follicle, this ensures an effective turnover of cells within the follicle, with more effective disposal of dead cells.This in turn will prevent the formation of a "plug" that will block the opening of the follicle thus preventing comedones, palpules, and pustules

Why is the Intaglio Acne Programs effective for treating acne and reducing scarring?

• Intaglio uses a higher concentrate of glycolic acid (up to 20%) therefore penetrates deeper and provides excessive removal of dead skin layers
• The combination of glycolic and salicylic acid kills bacteria and prevents the spread of infection
• Heals breakouts quickly and effectively without drying
• The removal of dead skin cells keeps with glycolic acid keeps follicles open and skin clear.

Intaglio Acne Programs are not "quick fixes". The continuous use of our glycolic and salicylic acid will provide dramatic results in a matter of weeks depending on the severity of the acne; however with continual use the results achieved and the confidence you have gained will ensure a life-time commitment.

Acne: Occasional or Monthly Flair ups

When you have an occasional flair up do to diet, stress or regular flair up associated with cycle, you may need to use a stronger therapeutic product or combination of products for a few days until the flair up is under control. For example, someone with mild acne would use Resurfacing Gel 15 for a few days in place of Astringent 8. When the flair up is under control they would discontinue the use of Resurfacing Gel 15 and resume the use of Astringent 8.

Acne: Hyper-pigmentation caused by acne

The inflammation caused by acne can produce hyperpigmentation spots. Lightening Gel 10 or Lightening Gel can reduce the appearance of these spots. Apply Lightening Gel 10 or Clarifying Essence to the affected areas before applying moisturizers or sunscreens.