Skincare Case 118

Age: 22
Gender: Female
Fitzpatrick: 4
Skin type: Oily

Main concern: A couple of solid nodules on the chine and a few more pimples, mainly on the chin

History: She has good skin for the most part, except during her menstrual periods and when she engages in stressful situations that both happened right before the current issue.

Homecare routine: She has to wear heavy makeup daily for her job, so she cleanses her face at least once daily with gel cleanser. She also uses topical vitamin C plus moisturizer daily. In addition, she is an avid sunscreen user whenever she is out in the sun.

Findings: The client has an inflamed nodule on the chin with a few scattered papules, mainly on the chin. It looks like she hasn’t manipulated or picked at the lesions and the lesions are intact.

Skincare Exams Case 118
Case Discussion (Please click here)

This case involves a 22-year-old female with a Fitzpatrick skin type IV and oily skin. Her main concern is the presence of a couple of solid nodules on her chin and a few more pimples, primarily on the chin. These breakouts seem to occur more frequently during her menstrual periods and stressful situations. Her homecare routine includes daily use of heavy makeup, gel cleanser, topical vitamin C, moisturizer, and regular sunscreen application. Her skin shows an inflamed nodule on the chin with a few scattered papules, mainly on the chin, with no signs of manipulation.

Causes

The presentation suggests hormonal acne, which typically flares up during menstrual periods due to hormonal changes. Stress can also trigger acne by stimulating adrenal glands to produce more hormones. Furthermore, the daily use of heavy makeup may contribute to the clogging of pores, especially if not thoroughly removed.

What was Done Wrong

  1. Heavy Makeup: Daily use of heavy makeup can clog pores and contribute to acne, especially if not thoroughly cleansed.
  2. Stress Management: Not addressing stress can exacerbate hormonal acne.
  3. Potential Overuse of Products: The use of multiple products (gel cleanser, vitamin C, moisturizer) may potentially irritate the skin or exacerbate oil production, contributing to acne.

Office and Home Treatment Options

Office treatments:

  1. Dermatologist consultation: A dermatologist can provide targeted treatments such as oral contraceptives, anti-androgen drugs, or other hormonal therapies.
  2. Professional treatments: Depending on the dermatologist’s advice, treatments like chemical peels or blue light therapy can help manage acne.

Home treatments:

  1. Over-the-counter treatments: Salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids can help manage acne.
  2. Regular cleansing: Ensure thorough removal of makeup and cleansing of the skin.

Preventions

  1. Gentle and thorough cleansing: Ensure all makeup is thoroughly removed at the end of the day.
  2. Regular routine: Maintain a regular skincare routine, and avoid switching products frequently.
  3. Stress management: Implement stress management techniques like exercise, yoga, or meditation.
  4. Avoid picking: Avoid manipulating or picking at pimples to prevent scarring and further inflammation.

Home Care Daily Routine

Morning:

  1. Cleanse with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser.
  2. Apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer.
  3. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF of at least 30.

Evening:

  1. Remove makeup thoroughly.
  2. Cleanse with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser.
  3. Apply a spot treatment on individual pimples, if necessary.
  4. Apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer.

She should consult a dermatologist if her condition does not improve or worsens. Regular check-ups may also be beneficial to monitor her skin condition and make necessary adjustments to her skincare routine and treatment plan.