12 Oct What Are Your Thoughts on Acne Positivity?
We’re all about loving our bodies, but often draw a line when it comes to a completely treatable medical condition—and that’s exactly what acne is. RefinedMD offers many treatments for this very common condition and we know that just because most people have experienced acne, that doesn’t mean you just have to accept it. There are a lot of different types of acne, from the common whitehead to painful cystic acne. Acne can be painful and cause permanent scarring. Of course, it’s also related to low self-esteem, making it both a physical and mental problem.
There has been a recent trend towards “acne positivity,” which is what the brand Fazit is all about. The founder, Nina LaBruna, says, “We’re showing the real side of acne.” This beauty brand has been spreading #acnepositivity across TikTok, highlighting acne while also showcasing its acne patches. The marketing has garnered millions of views thanks to the “gory, close-ups of eruptions” that their reels often feature. All images are totally unedited and often showcase more extreme forms of acne. However, while the brand is all about “acne positivity,” it’s important to keep in mind that it’s still a self-proclaimed beauty brand with products designed to stop acne.
It turns out nobody actually likes acne. Not even those who make their living off of acne positivity.
Why Acne Positivity Was Born
According to LaBruna, the only thing she would see pop up on her phone was ads for another skin care line or trick to get flawless skin. “There’s an imbalance in the messaging right now,” she says. Ultimately, LaBruna feels her approach is more about encouraging real depictions of skin rather than promoting acne positivity. There has been a recent influx of hydrocolloid acne patches in recent years, which can be effective in treating superficial acne. These patches are typically small circles that users wear for a few hours in order to soak up oil, pus, and fluids. They’re cheap, over the counter—and don’t really work for most people.
Acne is caused by bacteria and while oily skin or unclean skin can certainly trigger or exacerbate acne, it alone doesn’t typically cause it. However, LaBruna is focusing on “democratizing beauty” while connecting with Gen Z (younger consumers who prioritize authenticity). She says,
Acne brands are kind of saying, “Oh, the products will fix your skin and give you a perfect appearance.” But you know what that’s doing? It’s telling people, their customer who struggles with acne, that their skin is not OK the way it is.
Of course, skin with acne is “normal”—but it’s not okay (according to most beauty ads). Right now LaBruna works exclusively in the hydrocolloid market but plans to move into dermal patches to treat other skin concerns. She is also aware of the beauty and mental health link, hoping to collaborate with mental health organizations in the future.
Let’s Make One Thing Clear:
Your skin. These patches might work for a small number of people with acne, but if you want to get serious about achieving clear, healthy skin, you’re going to need professional intervention. There’s no singular best solution for everyone. Maybe a prescription from a doctor is what you need (either oral or topical). Laser and other energy-based devices work fantastically for a lot of people. A chemical peel and/or microneedling can help you remove the scars and hyperpigmentation left behind by past breakouts.
Upgrading your skin care regimen to medical-grade products is also going to make a world of difference. We carry only medical-grade products including moisturizers (even acne-prone skin needs this), serums, sunscreen, and more. Our skin changes all the time, especially with the seasons, so autumn is the perfect time to work with our skin care experts to upgrade your routine.
Acne doesn’t just happen to teens, but it is often triggered by hormone fluctuations. If you’re still fighting acne, clearly what you’ve tried before isn’t working. It’s time to take it to the next level. We offer both medical and cosmetic dermatology solutions so that you can finally get the clear skin you deserve. OTC solutions are for a select few. What’s actually “normal” is acne that causes permanent marks, is painful, impacts your mental health—and can be 100% cured. To find out more about acne solutions at RefinedMD, give us a call today or complete the online contact form.