Ep 10: Acne Scars, Acne Marks & Hyperpigmentation | Treatment Room Solutions, Modalities & Realistic Results

Do you actually have acne scars... or are they acne marks?

Many people assume every mark left behind after a breakout is a scar, but that's one of the biggest misconceptions in skincare. In this episode of Real Skin Pro Education, we're breaking down the important differences between post-inflammatory erythema (PIE), post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and true acne scars, and why correctly identifying each condition is the key to successful treatment.

We'll discuss how acne scars form, why some people develop pigmentation while others develop redness, and which professional skincare treatments, modalities, and ingredients are most appropriate for each concern. You'll also learn when acne scars require referral to a medical provider and why realistic expectations are one of the most important parts of the healing process.

Whether you're an esthetician, skincare professional, or someone recovering from acne, this episode will help you better understand what you're seeing in the mirror and how to create a treatment plan based on skin science instead of guesswork.

In This Episode:

• The difference between acne scars, PIE, and PIH

• Why not every acne mark is permanent

• How inflammation contributes to redness, pigmentation, and scarring

• Ice pick, boxcar, rolling, hypertrophic, and keloid scars explained

• Treatment room modalities including LED therapy, chemical peels, enzyme therapy, microneedling, and nano infusion

• Home care ingredients that support healing, including azelaic acid, retinoids, niacinamide, vitamin C, and ceramides

• Why sunscreen is essential for post-acne healing

• When estheticians should refer clients for advanced scar treatments

• Realistic timelines and expectations for improving acne scars and acne marks

Key Takeaway:

Not every mark left behind by acne is a scar. Understanding whether you're dealing with redness, pigmentation, or structural scarring allows you to choose treatments that are appropriate, effective, and based on the biology of the skin.

Connect with Lisa:

Instagram: @real_skinpro

lisa@realskinpro.com

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow esthetician, skincare professional, or anyone navigating life after acne.

Real Skin Pro Education is dedicated to helping estheticians think differently, treat skin intentionally, and create real, lasting results.

Follow along for more advanced skin education and insights.

Instagram: @real_skinpro

Accutane is one of the most effective and most misunderstood acne treatments available.

In this special bonus episode of Real Skin Pro Education, we're taking a deep dive into isotretinoin, commonly known by its former brand name, Accutane. We'll discuss how this powerful medication works, who it may be appropriate for, what the treatment process looks like, common side effects, and the growing trend of low-dose or "microdosed" Accutane.

You'll learn why isotretinoin is unique among acne treatments, how it targets all four major contributors to acne development, and what clients can realistically expect before, during, and after treatment. We'll also cover the iPLEDGE program, considerations for both male and female patients, and how estheticians can safely support clients undergoing treatment.

Whether you're an esthetician, skincare professional, or someone considering isotretinoin for acne management, this episode will help you better understand the facts behind one of dermatology's most powerful acne treatments.

In This Episode:

• What Accutane (isotretinoin) is and how it works
• Who is a candidate for isotretinoin treatment
• The Accutane treatment process from start to finish
• Understanding the iPLEDGE program
• Why pregnancy prevention is critical during treatment
• How isotretinoin affects male patients
• Expected treatment timelines and outcomes
• Common side effects including dry skin, dry lips, and increased sensitivity
• Less common but important side effects that require monitoring
• The relationship between Accutane and mental health
• The rise of low-dose and microdosed Accutane
• Professional treatment considerations for estheticians
• Barrier-supporting ingredients that may help improve skin comfort during treatment
• How to safely support clients receiving isotretinoin therapy

Key Takeaway:

Accutane isn't a miracle and it isn't a monster. It's a powerful medication that can significantly improve acne for the right candidate when used under proper medical supervision. Understanding the benefits, risks, and realities of treatment allows patients and skincare professionals to make informed decisions and provide appropriate support throughout the process.

Connect with Lisa:

Instagram: @real_skinpro
lisa@realskinpro.com

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow esthetician, skincare professional, or anyone considering Accutane treatment.

Real Skin Pro Education is dedicated to helping estheticians think differently, treat skin intentionally, and create real, lasting results.

Follow along for more advanced skin education and insights.

Instagram: @real_skinpro

Ep 9: Acne Through the Lifespan | Teen, Adult, Hormonal & Menopausal Acne

Acne doesn't look the same at every stage of life, and it shouldn't be treated the same way.

In this episode of Real Skin Pro Education, we're exploring how acne changes throughout the lifespan, from teen acne and adult acne to hormonal acne, perimenopausal acne, and menopausal acne. We'll discuss the unique factors that drive breakouts at different ages, including hormones, oil production, inflammation, skin barrier health, stress, and lifestyle influences.

You'll learn why a teenager with oily, congested skin may require a completely different treatment approach than a woman experiencing hormonal acne in her 40s or menopausal acne in her 50s. We'll also cover the professional treatments, ingredients, and home care strategies that can support healthier skin at every stage of life.

Whether you're an esthetician, skincare professional, or someone struggling with persistent breakouts, this episode will help you better understand the root causes of acne and how to approach treatment based on the individual, not just the blemish.

In This Episode:
• What causes teen acne and the best treatment options
• Why adult acne is often different from adolescent acne
• The role hormones play in acne development
• How perimenopause and menopause can affect the skin
• Common acne patterns and locations by age group
• Professional treatments for acne-prone skin
• The best skincare ingredients for teen, adult, hormonal, and menopausal acne
• Why barrier repair and inflammation management matter
• A holistic approach to acne management throughout life

Key Takeaway:
Acne is not a one-size-fits-all condition. Understanding the unique drivers behind teen acne, adult acne, hormonal acne, and menopausal acne allows for more effective, personalized treatment and better long-term outcomes.

Connect with Lisa:
Instagram: @real_skipro
lisa@realskinpro.com

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow skincare professional or someone navigating acne at any stage of life.

Real Skin Pro Education is dedicated to helping estheticians think differently, treat skin intentionally, and create real, lasting results.

Follow along for more advanced skin education and insights.

Instagram: @real_skinpro