If you feel self-conscious about your acne, you’re not alone: 96% of those with acne report feeling depressed about their skin at some point in their lives, and 85% of all people have had acne at some point. Everyone’s acne is different, though, and an acne treatment that works for one person may not work for another. A great (and fun) way to take care of your skin is by visiting a licensed aesthetician. Unlike a dermatologist, an aesthetician is generally focused on the cosmetic side of skincare. With that said, aestheticians are trained in the health and structure of the skin, and medical aestheticians often work with dermatologists to reverse discoloration, aging, and acne. Here are four treatments to try with an aesthetician.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is often thought of as a medical aesthetic procedure, but it can be performed by an aesthetician. It entails the use of fine crystals to gently exfoliate the skin. Many people say that it feels like using a powerful face scrub to clear out the pores. While this won’t necessarily work for extreme acne, those with moderate acne, blackheads, and whiteheads should see some difference after a few treatments.

Extraction

As the name suggests, extraction is the process of extracting gunk that has been building up in your pores. After your face has been washed and dried, an aesthetician will typically warm your face with a hot towel and perform a facial to cause you to sweat out whatever is in the pores. Some aesthetician services may include the use of a sterile lancet to remove any blemishes from the skin, but not all states allow this. It’s perfectly okay to ask your aesthetician what the process will entail before you get started.

Facials

Facials can be as varied as we are, so be sure to ask for one that is geared toward healing and anti-acne treatment. In general, facials and facial massage stimulate blood flow, clean the face, and use high quality products to nourish the skin. Anti-acne facials will often include anti-inflammatories and anti-bacterials to make sure that bacteria doesn’t build up in the skin. More intense treatments, like a glycolic peel, may literally use a mild acid to wipe away damaged skin.

Recommendations

Aesthetician services should always include product recommendations to keep your skin looking its best. Your aesthetician will have gone to school and licensed in your state and has in-depth knowledge of skincare. They will also be able to recommend some lifestyle changes (such as diet, exercise, pillow cleaning, etc.) that may be able to help clear up your acne.

Acne is a normal part of life, but aesthetician services can do a lot to clear up any imperfections on your skin. Be sure to seek out a medical aesthetician or one with experience working with acne treatment before you set your first appointment, or look for an aesthetician that works in a dermatology center. A few treatments are often all you need to see a tangible difference.