Acne is one of the most common skin concerns we see—and also one of the most misunderstood. At Vixen Esthetics, we believe that education is key to clearing your skin and keeping it that way. I’m here to break down everything you need to know about acne: the different types, causes, treatments, and what to expect when you work with us.
The Different Types of Acne
Not all acne is the same. Understanding the type of acne you’re dealing with helps us determine the best treatment plan for your skin.
- Non-Inflamed Acne: This includes blackheads, whiteheads, and small bumps or rough texture on the skin.
- Inflamed Acne: More severe and painful, this can include papules, pustules, nodules, cysts, hormonal breakouts, and angry, red flare-ups.
Acne may also become worse with improper skincare or when using products that aggravate your skin—one of many reasons we customize every client’s routine.
What Causes Acne?
Acne can be triggered by a number of factors, including:
- Genetics
- Hormonal or gut imbalances
- Diet and lifestyle
- Over-cleansing or barrier damage
- At-home dermaplaning
- Improper product use
- Excess sebum production
Every case is different, which is why we take a multi-faceted approach to identify the root cause and develop a plan to manage your skin for the long haul.
How Long Does The Treatment Process Take?
Treating acne isn’t an overnight fix. Most clients start seeing significant improvement between 3 to 12 months, depending on the severity and consistency of treatment. Full homecare compliance is absolutely essential to your success.
Is There a Permanent Cure?
Acne is a medical condition—while it can be managed, it rarely just “goes away” on its own. With the right products, habits, and education, we help you get (and stay) clear.
Treatment Options and Pricing
We offer several treatment options to help you reach your skin goals:
- Acne Bootcamp: $110 per treatment
- DMK Enzyme Therapy: $250 per treatment
- Customized Homecare Routine: $250–$500, depending on your specific needs
Financing available via Afterpay (6% fee applies).
What You Can Expect During Treatment
Many clients experience a purging phase at the start. This is completely normal—it means your products are doing their job by pushing clogged pores to the surface. This phase usually lasts 1–3 months.
We recommend coming in every 2–4 weeks for best results. Once your skin is clear, we’ll move into a maintenance phase and adjust treatments accordingly.
Popular Treatment Comparisons
Chemical Peels
Use acids to exfoliate and stimulate new cell growth—great for acne, aging, and pigmentation. We customize the blend for your unique concerns.
Microdermabrasion vs. Hydrodermabrasion
Traditional microdermabrasion is physical exfoliation. We prefer hydrodermabrasion (like HydraFacials) for a gentler, more hydrating approach. Not ideal for inflamed acne.
Laser Treatments
Used more for scarring or deeper skin issues, not active breakouts. We typically recommend these after the acne has been cleared.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can acne come back after treatment?
Yes, if proper maintenance isn’t followed.
Do you treat body acne?
Absolutely! Back and chest acne are treated differently and can often be addressed more aggressively.
Can I wear makeup?
Yes, as long as it’s non-comedogenic. We provide a list of approved products.
What about teenage or hormonal acne?
We take a tailored approach based on age, health history, and lifestyle. For teens, we involve parents in the process. For hormonal cases, we may recommend testing or holistic support.
Is it safe while pregnant?
Yes—with adjustments. We avoid certain ingredients like high-percentage benzoyl peroxide or retinol but still have many effective options.
Can I work out after treatment?
We recommend working out before your appointment and avoiding sweat and heat the rest of the day.
Can I continue my prescription meds?
We cannot give medical advice on oral prescriptions, but we may ask you to pause certain topicals like tretinoin during active treatment.
Preventing Acne Scarring
The best way to prevent acne scars? Hands off! Picking at your skin can worsen inflammation and lead to long-term damage. We also use products that support the skin barrier, reduce pigmentation, and stimulate collagen (like retinol) once the active acne is controlled.
Our Holistic, Personalized Approach
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all treatments. Your skin is unique—and so is our approach. We combine:
- Clinical treatments
- Full homecare support
- Education around lifestyle, diet, and stress
- Supplements (like EFAs)
- Support for resistant or stubborn acne
We’re in this journey with you, and we’re here to help you succeed every step of the way.
Ready to Start Your Skincare Journey?
We always start with a consultation—this is where we learn about your skin, your health history, and what your skin needs to thrive.
