Salt Lake City Plastic Surgeon Addresses Acne Myths and How Best to Achieve Clear Skin

SALT LAKE CITY, UT--(Marketwired - Jul 30, 2013) - According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting 85% of people at some point in their lives. Dr. J. Gregory Kjar, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Utah, recognizes the significance of the problem and educates his patients on best skin care practices. He is offering a 30-minute class to the public on July 31st for those interested in learning how to maintain beautiful skin and fight acne. From common myths to effective treatments, he is spreading awareness of how to achieve a clearer complexion.

Dr. Kjar explains that acne originates when the millions of microscopic hair follicles in the skin, also known as pores, overproduce and become blocked. While oil normally drains to the surface, he says it can get trapped, which causes bacteria to grow and results in a small bump or redness -- also known as acne. Although the condition can be significantly improved, Dr. Kjar reveals how many people are making it worse while trying to get rid of it.

By understanding which acne treatments may actually be myths, Dr. Kjar believes his Salt Lake City medical spa patients will have a much better chance of clearing their skin. He mentions one of the most common mistakes people make in treating their acne is frequent and aggressive face washing. Although people may feel they are getting a deep clean, Dr. Kjar says this irritates pores and causes them to clog. "The best way to wash is gently, and only twice a day."

Other contributing factors to acne mentioned by Dr. Kjar include fabric softener, hair products, and makeup and skin care solutions that can irritate the skin. Dr. Kjar says, for some people, these items can make acne worse -- or even be the cause of it.

Another myth Dr. Kjar addresses is relieving acne symptoms through tanning beds and sun exposure. While this can temporarily reduce the appearance of acne, he explains how the harmful rays actually damage the skin, irritating it in the process. In the next few weeks following the harmful ray exposure, Dr. Kjar says acne can actually get worse as the skin is trying to heal. He and his master estheticians continuously educate patients on how to best clear their problem with acne by using the appropriate skin care treatments.

According to Dr. Kjar, there are three ingredients people should look for in products to treat acne:

• Benzoyl peroxide: fights bacteria
• Salicylic acid: helps control oil
• Mild exfoliant: reduces dead skin

He describes each as being a necessary component to revealing smoother and clearer skin. Dr. Kjar encourages anyone suffering from acne to talk with a professional about how they can improve their specific skin problems. He believes most people have the potential to achieve a beautiful complexion when they know how to properly maintain healthy skin.

Dr. Kjar says anyone interested in attending the class on July 31st can contact the practice for more information.

About J. Gregory Kjar MD, FACS

Dr. J. Gregory Kjar has been practicing plastic surgery for over 25 years. He is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has hospital privileges at Davis Medical Center, Mountain West Medical Center, LDS Hospital and Lakeview Hospital. Dr. Kjar is an active volunteer in the Operation Smile organization, repairing cleft lips and palates for young people around the world. He is available for interview upon request.

This practice can be reached online at drkjar.com or facebook.com/pages/Dr-Kjar-and-Candessa-Aesthetics/137491781004