Adult Acne: Causes, Treatments, and the Truth Behind the Breakouts
Struggling with adult acne in Guildford? Learn the truth about causes, treatments, and how to finally clear your skin—for good.
June is Acne Awareness Month, and at Verse Medical Aesthetics in Guildford, we’re here to separate myths from science. Adult acne is common, treatable, and often misunderstood. In this guide, we explore causes, evidence-based treatments, diet tips, and the newest options like hyperdiluted Botox—alongside answers to trending Google questions.
What causes acne in adults?
Hormones, stress, and skin barrier damage are common culprits.
Adult acne is not simply “leftover teenage skin.” It is a chronic inflammatory condition driven by hormonal shifts, stress, barrier dysfunction, and gut imbalance. Recent evidence shows that androgens and IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1) are key contributors, often amplified by diet, stress, and systemic inflammation.
Common triggers include:
Hormonal fluctuations (perimenopause, PCOS, contraceptive changes)
Sebum overproduction driven by IGF-1
Harsh skincare routines disrupt the barrier
Gut dysbiosis and systemic inflammation (Li et al., 2024)
🔗 Learn more about IGF-1 and acne on Wikipedia
What treatments are effective for adult acne?
Evidence-based skincare, peels, and personalised plans work best.
One-size-fits-all won’t cut it. At Verse, we offer tailored acne treatment plans supported by peer-reviewed evidence and personalised assessments.
Our treatment options include:
Enerpeel® SA or JR: Salicylic acid or resorcinol-based peels that exfoliate gently while preserving the skin barrier.
Medik8 BHA or clarifying peels: Ideal for sensitive or rosacea-prone skin with acne crossover.
30% Azelaic acid peels: Shown to reduce inflammation and improve pigmentation (Feng et al., 2024).
LED Therapy: Blue and red light to reduce Cutibacterium acnes and calm inflammation (JCAD, 2024).
Hyperdiluted Botulinum Toxin A: Reduces sebum in oily-prone areas like the T-zone (Facial Acne Management Review, 2024).
Barrier-first skincare: Lipid-rich products (SkinMed/Medik8) to restore hydration and reduce transepidermal water loss.
📍 Explore our acne treatment options
📎 Enerpeel SA clinical evidence – SkinMed UK
Before and after photo of Enerpeel treatment for adult acne on the cheeks
Will adult acne go away on its own?
Not always. Addressing the root cause is key.
Adult acne rarely resolves without targeted treatment. Delaying care can increase the risk of:
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Scarring
Chronic inflammation and flare cycles
Can Botox help with acne?
Yes—hyperdiluted Botox can reduce oil production in the skin.
New evidence supports the off-label use of Botulinum toxin type A for acne and facial seborrhea. When injected intradermally in low doses, it modulates sebaceous gland activity, making it ideal for clients:
With oily T-zones or forehead congestion
Who cannot tolerate antibiotics or retinoids
Seeking subtle textural improvement
📎 Review: Facial Acne Management and Sebum Reduction with BoNT-A (2022)
How to treat acne scars after breakouts
From peels to microneedling, scarring is treatable.
Scarring can be physical (ice pick, boxcar, hypertrophic) or pigment-related (PIH). We offer:
Enerpeel JR or TCA Touch peels
Microneedling (when suitable)
Pigment-safe actives (kojic acid, azelaic acid)
LED therapy to support healing and reduce inflammation
Adult acne and dry skin — can they co-exist?
Yes, and often indicate a compromised barrier.
If acne-prone skin feels tight or flaky, barrier repair is needed. We use:
Ceramide and fatty acid-rich skincare
Gentle exfoliants and low-irritation peels
Custom prep and post-treatment regimens
Adult acne vs rosacea: what’s the difference?
Learn to tell them apart to get the right treatment.
Many clients confuse rosacea with acne. Here’s how to spot the difference:
Rosacea includes redness, flushing, and broken capillaries
Acne features blackheads, whiteheads, and cysts
Both can coexist, especially in fair or sensitive skin types
Papulopustular rosacea and acne can look similar.Papulopustular Rosacea on the Cheek
(Source: Clinical Case Study)
What you're seeing:
This image shows papulopustular rosacea, a common subtype of rosacea often confused with acne. It features persistent redness, visible capillaries, and clusters of red papules and pustules—but importantly, no blackheads or whiteheads.
Unlike acne, rosacea:
Is confined to the central face (cheeks, nose, chin, forehead)
Is triggered by heat, alcohol, spicy food, stress, or sunlight
Often affects people with fair, reactive, or sensitive skin types
🔥 Key diagnostic clue: Rosacea lacks comedones and usually comes with diffuse flushing and burning, especially after trigger exposure. Acne treatments can often make rosacea worse, so proper diagnosis is key.
At Verse Medical Aesthetics, we treat rosacea gently with barrier-repairing skincare, LED therapy, and calming topicals designed to reduce redness and flare-ups without disrupting your skin barrier.
📍Book a consultation if you're unsure your breakouts are rosacea, acne, or both.
Acne Vulgaris on the Cheek (Source: DermNet NZ)
What you're seeing:
This image shows inflammatory acne vulgaris—a common skin condition driven by blocked pores, excess oil, and Cutibacterium acnes bacteria. Lesions often include comedones (black and whiteheads), papules, pustules, and nodules or cysts in more severe cases.
Unlike rosacea, acne can affect:
The jawline, cheeks, chest, and back
Clients with oily skin or hormonal imbalances
Teens, young adults, and perimenopausal women
🔬 Key diagnostic clue: The presence of comedones is what helps differentiate acne from rosacea. In-clinic treatments like chemical peels, LED therapy, and barrier-first skincare can significantly reduce inflammation and prevent scarring.
📍Book a skin consultation at Verse Medical Aesthetics in Guildford to find the right evidence-based solution for your acne type.
Low-glycaemic, anti-inflammatory diets can support acne improvement — especially in Western populations.Low-glycaemic, anti-inflammatory diets are acne-friendly.
Diet alone won't cure acne, but evidence strongly suggests that high-glycaemic foods and dairy products can worsen acne in genetically predisposed individuals, particularly among Westernised populations. These foods increase insulin and IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1), which stimulate sebaceous gland activity and inflammation.
✅ Eat more of these:
Omega-3-rich foods (salmon, walnuts, chia seeds) – anti-inflammatory
Zinc-rich foods (pumpkin seeds, lentils) – supports immune balance
Fermented foods (kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi) – gut-skin axis support
Low-GI fruits and vegetables – reduce insulin spikes
🚫 Avoid or limit:
Cow’s milk, especially skim milk and whey-based protein shakes
High-GI foods – white bread, sweetened drinks, sugary snacks
Whey and casein protein supplements – shown to increase IGF-1
These insights are supported by systematic reviews and clinical trials showing a modest but consistent improvement in acne when switching to a low-glycaemic-load diet. Notably, dairy’s role in acne seems more pronounced in Western diets compared to non-Western ones.
📚 Read full review: Meixiong et al., 2022 – Diet and Acne
When should you seek professional help for acne?
If acne is persistent, scarring, or affecting your confidence—don’t wait.
We offer:
In-depth diagnostic skin assessments
Treatment plans tailored to your skin type, age, hormones, and pigmentation risk
Medical-grade skincare, prescription treatments, and in-clinic solutions
📍 Verse Medical Aesthetics — Guildford, Surrey 📞 +44 7476 695696 📧 marta@versemedicalaesthetics.com
✨ ✨ We specialise in natural-looking rejuvenation using Medik8 — for women in Surrey who want to glow without overdoing it.
Just 3 minutes from Guildford Station, Verse Medical Aesthetics offers expert-led skin treatments with real results and zero stress.
Botox Bruising: Expert Prevention & Treatment Tips in Guildford
Bruising after Botox is common but preventable. Discover expert tips on reducing bruising and how to quickly heal after your injections.
Bruising after Botox injections is a common worry for patients at our Guildford clinic. Here, you’ll discover exactly what causes Botox bruising, expert prevention strategies, what to do if a bruise appears, how to cover it up, and when to seek help.
What Causes Botox Bruising?
Botox bruising happens when the needle disrupts a tiny blood vessel under the skin. Some areas—like around the eyes—are more prone to bruising. The risk increases with blood-thinning medication, alcohol, certain supplements (e.g., vitamin E, fish oil), and even your genetics or skin type.
How Long Does Botox Bruising Last?
Most Botox bruises fade within 3–7 days. For patients in Guildford and Surrey who bruise easily, following our aftercare steps can help minimise both the severity and duration.
How to Prevent Bruising Before Your Appointment
Pause blood thinners: With your doctor’s advice, stop aspirin/ibuprofen, fish oil, and vitamin E 3–7 days before.
Skip alcohol: No alcohol 48 hours before your appointment.
Use Arnica Montana: Arnica (oral or gel) reduces post-injection bruising by up to 40% (Dermatologic Surgery, 2023).
Cold compress: Ice before and after your treatment constricts blood vessels and reduces bruising.
Skilled injector: At Verse Medical Aesthetics in Guildford, we use a gentle technique and knowledge of facial anatomy to reduce trauma.
How to Quickly Treat Bruising After Botox:
Arnica gel: Apply 2–3 times daily.
Vitamin K cream: Supports blood reabsorption.
Occlusive patches: Advanced wound care for persistent bruises.
Vbeam laser: Ask about our clinic’s laser options for rapid healing.
Cold compress: Continue using ice for the first 24 hours.
No heat/exercise: Avoid hot showers, saunas, and intense exercise for 48 hours.
Supplement | How It Works | Efficacy | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Arnica | Reduces inflammation and swelling, speeds up healing of bruises. | ★★★★☆ | Backed by clinical studies for reducing post-injection bruising. |
Vitamin K Cream | Supports blood clotting and helps break down bruise pigments. | ★★★★☆ | Effective for topical application; commonly used post-cosmetic procedures. |
Bromelain | Enzyme from pineapple; reduces swelling and inflammation. | ★★★☆☆ | Best used as a supplement; avoid if allergic to pineapple. |
How to Cover Botox Bruises with Makeup
Use a green-tinted concealer to neutralise redness/purple.
Top with a full-coverage concealer matching your skin tone.
Apply makeup with a clean brush or sponge to avoid infection.
Botox Bruising FAQs
How long does Botox bruising last?
Usually 3–7 days.
Can I exercise after Botox?
Avoid workouts for 24–48 hours to minimise risk.
Does alcohol make bruising worse?
Yes, avoid alcohol before and after your appointment.
Is bruising a sign that the treatment was not performed correctly?
No, minor bruising is normal and temporary.
Local Botox in Guildford & Surrey
Looking for expert Botox care in Guildford? Our clinic uses the latest anti-bruising protocols and offers a gentle, personalised approach. We also provide dermal fillers in Guildford and a full range of advanced treatments.
Why Choose Verse Medical Aesthetics?
At Verse Medical Aesthetics, your treatments are delivered by an NMC-registered nurse with advanced training in aesthetic medicine. Every procedure is personalised to your unique skin, goals, and budget, so you receive the highest standard of care in Guildford.
Professional Memberships:
British Dermatological Nursing Group (BDNG): Supporting best practice and ongoing education in dermatology nursing.
CMAC (Complications in Medical Aesthetics Collaborative): Dedicated to safety and excellence in managing aesthetic complications.
BAMAN (British Association of Medical Aesthetic Nurses): Committed to promoting standards and ethics in medical aesthetics.
You benefit from the latest evidence-based techniques and a genuine passion for natural, safe results, without the London price tag.
Client Testimonial
“Marta’s tips helped me avoid bruising after my Botox—so glad I followed the aftercare!”
– Sarah, Guildford
Ready to Regenerate Your Skin?
📍 Verse Medical Aesthetics — Guildford, Surrey 📞 +44 7476 695696 📧 marta@versemedicalaesthetics.com
✨ ✨ We specialise in natural-looking rejuvenation using Medik8 — for women in Surrey who want to glow without overdoing it.
Just 3 minutes from Guildford Station, Verse Medical Aesthetics offers expert-led skin treatments with real results and zero stress.
Polynucleotide Injections in Guildford
Nurse-led polynucleotide injections in Guildford—DNA skin boosters that repair collagen, calm redness and hydrate deeply with minimal downtime. Book your consultation today.
Polynucleotide Injections in Guildford
Revive • Rejuvenate • Regenerate
What Are Polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides (PN) are highly purified DNA fragments, most often sourced from salmon, that activate your own fibroblasts to create fresh collagen and elastin. If you have a fish allergy or prefer vegan-friendly options, let us know; plant-based regenerative boosters are available.
Key Benefits
Benefit: What it means for you. Cellular Repair: Thicker, stronger dermis within 4–6 weeks. Anti-Inflammatory: Calms redness in rosacea, acne-prone or post-laser skin. Deep Hydration: Restores the extracellular matrix for long-lasting glow. Low Downtime. Typical side-effects: mild swelling or redness for 12–24 h
Ideal For
Fine lines ・ under-eye crepeyness ・ acne scarring ・ dull or inflamed skin ・ smokers’ lines ・ post-procedure recovery
Treatment Plan
Two to three sessions, spaced 2–4 weeks apart → maintenance every 3–6 months. Think skin rehab, not a quick filler fix.
What Happens on the Day?
Cleanse & Map – Skin is cleansed; tiny injection points are marked.
Optional Numbing – A topical anaesthetic keeps you comfortable.
Micro-Injections – PN gel is placed just beneath the skin using a fine needle or cannula (≈ 20 min).
Soothing Finish – An antioxidant serum and SPF are applied; you’re free to return to normal life.
After-Care & Downtime
24 hours: expect light redness or pinpoint bruises. Avoid alcohol, saunas and strenuous exercise.
48 hours: resume usual skincare, but skip acids or retinoids.
Daily SPF 50 is essential to protect your new collagen.
Pricing & Membership
Single session: £220
Course of 3: £600
Glow Plan members save 10 % on every PN booster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are polynucleotides vegan-friendly?
Standard PN products are fish-derived, so strict vegans may decline. We stock plant-based skin boosters—ask in your consultation.
How soon will I see results?
Hydration improves within a week; collagen remodelling peaks at 4–6 weeks.
Any risks?
Common: redness, swelling, mild bruising.
Clinical Evidence
A 2023 Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology study (n = 60) reported a 22 % increase in dermal thickness six weeks after two PN sessions, with no serious adverse events.
Mini Case Study
“Sarah, 42, noticed crepey under-eyes after weight loss. Two PN treatments, three weeks apart, reduced fine-line depth by 28 % on VISIA analysis and restored a well-rested look.” Sarah, Farnham
Why Choose Us?
As an NMC-registered nurse and BAMAN member, I personalise every treatment to your biology, goals, and budget, delivering central London quality right here in Guildford.
Ready to Regenerate Your Skin?
📍 Verse Medical Aesthetics — Guildford, Surrey 📞 +44 7476 695696 📧 marta@versemedicalaesthetics.com
✨ ✨ We specialise in natural-looking rejuvenation using Medik8 — for women in Surrey who want to glow without overdoing it.
Just 3 minutes from Guildford Station, Verse Medical Aesthetics offers expert-led skin treatments with real results and zero stress.
New Medik8 Crystal Retinal Facial
Ready to try the new Crystal Retinal Age-Defying Facial by Medik8?
Experience brighter, firmer skin with no downtime — plus a complementary Medik8 aftercare kit. Glow naturally, without the London price tag.
Discover the Power of the New Medik8 Crystal Retinal Age-Defying Facial at Verse Medical Aesthetics
Looking for a results-driven facial treatment near London without the hefty London price tag? Verse Medical Aesthetics in Guildford is proud to be among the first clinics in the UK to offer the Crystal Retinal Age-Defying Facial by Medik8. This groundbreaking treatment brings the power of professional-strength retinal (vitamin A) to your in-clinic facial.
What is the Crystal Retinal Age-Defying Facial?
Developed by Medik8, a leading name in professional skincare, this advanced facial is designed to visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles, enhance radiance, and firm the skin — in just one hour. The treatment is fully customisable based on your skin needs and is ideal for those experiencing dullness, uneven tone, early signs of ageing, or texture concerns.
Key components include:
Crystal Retinal Concentrate – Medik8's patented fast-release retinal for fast, visible age-defying results.
Custom mix-ins such as:
Pure Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) – for brightening and antioxidant protection
Pure Charcoal Powder – for clarifying and oil absorption
Hyaluronic acid-based activating mask – for deep hydration and plumping
What to Expect from Your Treatment
This 60-minute facial begins with a tailored cleanse and exfoliation, followed by a facial and scalp massage using high-performance oils. Your skin is then treated to the custom retinal mask, enhanced with carefully selected actives to address your unique skin goals.
Each treatment finishes with Medik8's restorative skincare – and at Verse Medical Aesthetics, you'll also receive a complimentary Medik8 post-treatment kit to support your results at home. The kit includes:
Calmwise Soothing Cleanser
Hydr8 B5 serum
Ultimate Recovery cream
Physical Sunscreen SPF
Why Choose Verse Medical Aesthetics?
Located just 3 minutes from Guildford Station, we combine London-level skin treatments with exceptional value. You'll benefit from expert clinical care, beautiful results, and a discreet, calm atmosphere tailored entirely to you.
Book Now – Limited Launch Price
Introductory price: £150
(This includes a take-home Medik8 post-treatment kit worth over £40.)
✨ Availability is limited – early bookings are strongly encouraged.
📍 Verse Medical Aesthetics — Guildford, Surrey 📞 +44 7476 695696 📧 marta@versemedicalaesthetics.com
✨ ✨ We specialise in natural-looking rejuvenation using Medik8 — for women in Surrey who want to glow without overdoing it.
Just 3 minutes from Guildford Station, Verse Medical Aesthetics offers expert-led skin treatments with real results and zero stress.
Profhilo vs Fillers: What’s the Difference?
Compare Profhilo, Structura, and HA fillers — discover how each works, and which suits your skin goals. Learn about the Glow · Support · Shape method.
A guide to choosing the right injectable for your skin, support, and structure.
If you’ve been scrolling through Instagram or chatting with friends about skin boosters, you’ve probably come across both Profhilo and dermal fillers. But what exactly do they do—and which one is right for you?
Let’s break it down.
💧 What is Profhilo?
Profhilo is often called an “injectable moisturiser”—but it’s so much more than that.
It contains pure hyaluronic acid (HA) just like fillers, but instead of plumping one area, it spreads through the skin and stimulates your natural collagen and elastin.
💡 Think of it like a full-face skin reviver—perfect for:
Crepey texture
Fine lines
Dull, tired skin
Loss of firmness
You get a subtle, all-over glow and tightening effect after just two sessions, spaced a month apart.
💉 What about dermal fillers?
Fillers are typically crosslinked HA, injected to restore volume or enhance features.
They’re ideal for:
Sculpting cheeks or jawlines
Softening deep folds (like nasolabial lines)
Lip enhancement
But because they stay where they’re injected, they don’t improve skin quality across the face like Profhilo.
🧬 Not All HA Injectables Are the Same
In our clinic, we use three distinct types of HA-based injectables: Profhilo, Profhilo Structura, and dermal fillers like RHA® and Restylane®.
Each has a unique composition, texture, and purpose. Here’s how they compare:
Property | Profhilo | Structura | RHA / Restylane Fillers |
---|---|---|---|
HA Content | 64 mg per 2 ml | 45 mg per 1.1 ml | 15–25 mg/ml (varies by product) |
Crosslinking | None (thermally bonded) | Light cross‑linked | RHA®: Light Restylane: Light–Heavy |
Consistency | Very fluid, spreads easily | Soft, smooth | Gel‑like, varies by brand |
Injection Depth | Superficial subcutaneous (BAP) | Deep subdermal or supraperiosteal | Varies — superficial to deep (e.g. bone) |
Main Action | Hydration, glow, collagen/elastin | Support, elasticity, tissue stimulation | Volume, contour, shaping |
Best For | Crepey skin, dullness, mild laxity | Soft lift, post‑weight loss, tissue fatigue | Cheeks, lips, jawline, deep folds |
Duration | ≈ 6 months | ≈ 6–9 months | 6–12 months |
Biostimulatory Effect | Yes — collagen + elastin | Yes — structural support + stimulation | No direct stimulation — structural only |
✨ Glow · Support · Shape — The Verse Approach
At Verse Medical Aesthetics, we take a Glow · Support · Shape approach to facial rejuvenation:
Glow with Profhilo — to hydrate, firm, and restore radiance
Support with Profhilo Structura — to gently lift and support tissue from within
Shape with RHA® / Restylane® — to define contours and restore lost volume
This layered method works with your facial anatomy and enhances your features without overfilling. It’s ideal for those who want to look like themselves, just fresher, firmer, and naturally glowing.
💬 Still not sure what’s right for you?
That’s exactly what consultations are for. We’ll assess your skin, goals, and comfort level, and create a tailored plan using the products that best suit your features, not someone else’s.
📩 Tap the button below to book a consultation.
✨ We specialise in natural-looking rejuvenation using Profhilo, Structura, and premium HA-based fillers for women in Surrey who want to glow without overdoing it.
Botox® Aftercare FAQs: Sleeping, Alcohol, and Exercise Tips from a Guildford Clinic
Maximise your results with this expert Botox aftercare guide. Learn when to sleep, drink, and exercise after treatment at Verse Medical Aesthetics, Guildford.
Botox Aftercare FAQs: Can I Sleep on My Side, Drink Alcohol, or Exercise?
Understanding the aftercare is crucial for optimal results after getting Botox. This guide covers the most frequently asked Botox aftercare questions, including "Can I sleep on my side?" "When can I drink alcohol?" and "Is it safe to exercise?"
What is Botox and How Does It Work?
Botox is a popular non-surgical treatment that uses a purified form of botulinum toxin to relax specific muscles, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Proper aftercare ensures the best results and avoids complications.
Can I Sleep on My Side After Botox?
How Long Should I Wait Before Sleeping on My Side?
After receiving Botox, it’s recommended that you stay upright for at least 4 hours to allow the product to settle into the intended muscles. After that, it's generally safe to sleep on your side, though many practitioners advise sleeping on your back for the first night to minimise any chance of Botox migration.
Tips for Sleeping Comfortably After Botox
Use a Support Pillow: It helps keep your head stable and may prevent rolling onto your side.
Elevate Your Head Slightly: This reduces swelling and adds comfort.
Can I Drink Alcohol After Botox?
Alcohol can increase blood flow, which may lead to increased bruising or swelling at injection sites. To minimise these risks, avoid drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours before and after your Botox treatment. Giving your body time to heal can ensure smoother, faster results.
When Can I Exercise After Botox?
Exercising increases blood circulation, which may affect the results of Botox if done too soon. For the best results, wait at least 24 hours before strenuous exercise. Gentle movements like walking are usually safe but avoid intense activities, as they may risk migration or affect the treatment area.
Safe Exercises Post-Botox
While you should avoid strenuous activities, light activities such as walking are generally safe within 24 hours. Avoid high-intensity or high-contact exercises, which could pressure the treated area.
General Botox Aftercare Tips
For the best results, follow these general aftercare guidelines:
Avoid Touching or Massaging the Treated Area: Avoid applying pressure to the area for 24 hours to prevent migration.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support overall skin health and recovery.
Limit Sun Exposure: While Botox isn't directly affected by the sun, excessive exposure can harm your skin and decrease the treatment's longevity.
FAQs About Botox Aftercare
Can I sleep on my side after Botox?
Yes, but waiting at least 4 hours after treatment is best. Many recommend sleeping on your back for the first night.
How long should I wait before drinking alcohol after Botox?
It's recommended to wait 24 hours after Botox before consuming alcohol to avoid any risk of bruising or swelling.
Can I exercise after Botox?
Please wait 24 hours before you begin any intense exercise. Light activities like walking are generally acceptable, but avoid activities that may raise your heart rate significantly.
Can I touch my face after Botox?
To ensure the Botox stays in place, avoid touching, rubbing, or applying pressure to your face for at least 24 hours after treatment.
Does sleeping upright help with Botox results?
Staying upright for the first 4 hours helps the Botox settle into the targeted muscles and minimises migration risk.
Conclusion: Follow Botox Aftercare for the Best Results
With a few simple aftercare adjustments, you can maximise the effectiveness of your Botox treatment. Whether it's avoiding alcohol, exercising lightly, or adjusting your sleep position, these tips help ensure you achieve smooth, youthful-looking skin. At Verse Medical Aesthetics, we prioritise your aftercare to help you feel confident and informed at every step. For more questions or to schedule your subsequent treatment, contact us today.