Dealing with acne can be tough, but with the right approach, you can conquer it and reveal your best skin yet. Acne is a common skin condition that happens when hair follicles under the skin become clogged.
Sebum—oil that helps keep skin from drying out—and dead skin cells plug the pores, which leads to outbreaks of lesions, commonly called pimples or zits.
Here are nine ways to care for acne:
- Keep Your Face Clean: Wash your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser to remove excess oil, dirt, and dead skin cells that can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts.
- Avoid Harsh Products: Use oil-free skincare and makeup products to prevent further clogging of pores. Avoid harsh cleansers or exfoliants that can irritate the skin and exacerbate acne.
- Don’t Over-wash: While it’s important to keep your face clean, over-washing can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and potential irritation. Stick to washing your face twice a day, unless you’ve been sweating heavily.
- Moisturize: Even if you have oily skin, it’s essential to use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and prevent it from producing excess oil, which can contribute to acne.
- Use Acne-fighting Ingredients: Look for skincare products containing acne-fighting ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinoids, or tea tree oil. These ingredients help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and kill acne-causing bacteria.
- Avoid Touching Your Face: Keep your hands off your face to prevent transferring bacteria and dirt from your hands to your skin, which can worsen acne breakouts. Avoid picking, squeezing, or popping pimples to prevent scarring and further inflammation.
- Protect Your Skin: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, which can worsen acne and lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Healthy Lifestyle Habits: Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit your intake of sugary, processed foods and dairy products, which may exacerbate acne in some individuals. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, and manage stress through relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.
- Consult a Specialist: If over-the-counter treatments aren’t effective in managing your acne, or if your acne is severe or causing distress, consult a dermatologist or someone specialized in treating acne, like us *wink!. They can provide personalized treatment options, such as prescription medications, topical treatments, or in-office procedures, to help control your acne and prevent scarring.
