Acne is a pesky problem, and like a plus 1, it’ll accompany you when you least expect it. An important meeting, a date you’ve been looking forward to, an occasion you simply can’t miss, well, there it is, right in your face. Very literally so. While acne is an uninvited guest, we’ve all faced this irritating issue at some point or the other. While in some cases, such skin eruptions may vanish on their own, others could last long. Zits and acne breakouts are not just oily skin woes. Even those who have dry skin combat blemishes. Surprisingly, it is not just teenagers who have acne problems, adults do too.
Like a lifelong tag-along, acne seems like an issue you can’t solve. But thankfully that’s not the case. Acne can be avoided and dealt with using simple tips. And that’s exactly what we have for you. Read on and find out.
Why do we get acne?
Before we get into preventing acne, let’s take a quick look at what causes it. Acne is caused by several factors. Typically, oily skin and clogged pores coupled with environmental pollutants are the main reason for acne eruptions. Nevertheless, there are other influencers too.
Hormonal fluctuation
A high hormonal activity causes sebaceous glands, aka oil-producing glands, to go on overdrive. This is commonly seen in teens when they’re facing a growth curve. This combined with dirt, impurities, and other aggressors blocks the pores giving rise to acne. Besides teenagers, expectant mothers, and women who are close to their period, also have fluctuating hormones and thus could face the same issue.
Stress
Another primary driver of acne is mental anxiety or stress. Anxiousness leads to sebaceous glands going into a hyper mode thus leading to oil secretion. All this combines thus resulting in nasty acne.
Unhealthy diet
An unhealthy diet can affect hormones thus causing acne. Foods with a high sugar content increase your insulin levels which affect the hormones, and in turn the skin.
Bad skincare routine
Skimping on your skincare routine or misinformed skincare regime can give rise to acne. Always ensure you follow a strict skincare regimen to keep your skin clean, healthy, and acne-free.
Wrong skincare products
Picking up the wrong product for your skin can give you much acne grief. Before buying any item read the ingredients. Look for non-comedogenic components and ingredients that don’t trigger acne. Try natural, organic products If you have sensitive skin.
How to get rid of acne?
If you want to be rewarded with acne-free skin, we have just the thing for you. Easy-to-follow tips that will have you flaunting fabulous skin in no time.
Use a mild cleanser
Skin microbes thrive on grimy skin. Wash your face twice every day especially when you return from outside. Use a mild face cleanser that also has acne-fighting compounds. While cleansing, be gentle with your skin. Wipe with a towel and use it only for your face. And yes, avoid over-washing your face.
Splash a toner
Toners clean the skin of impurities and prevent the clogging of pores. It also clears any makeup residue and hydrates the skin too. Avoid toners that have alcohol in them as alcohol dries out the skin which is detrimental to the acne-prone complexion.
Always moisturize
Moisturizing is important as dry skin can also trigger sebaceous glands causing excess oil secretion. Avoid zit breakouts by using a lightweight, water-based moisturizer. A non-greasy moisturizer will protect and hydrate your skin.
Don’t forget sunscreen
It is always wise to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen when you step out. Apart from protecting your skin from the harmful rays of the sun, sunscreen will reduce exposure to free radicals which are related to acne. Pick a lightweight sunscreen with non-comedogenic properties. This will suit those with sensitive skin too.
Remove makeup
Beat that lazy habit of going to bed with makeup on. Makeup will block your pores, thus bringing the new day with new zits. Ensure your face is clean and makeup-free before going to bed. This will also help your skin to breathe thus giving it a natural glow.
Choose the right makeup
The right makeup can make a difference on your skin in more ways than one. Opt for oil-free cosmetics minus added dyes and chemicals and labelled as non-comedogenic. Non-comedogenic means it won’t cause blockages and you can wear these without worrying about breakouts.
Get rid of dandruff
It is common knowledge that dandruff gives rise to acne. They come as a package deal. That’s because dandruff makes the scalp flaky, and these nasty flakes tend to clog pores and cause acne, especially on the forehead. Using a gentle anti-dandruff shampoo can work most of the time. If the problem persists, use a medicated shampoo, and talk to your dermatologist.
Again, a word of caution: Watch out for those hair products. As always, read the labels and ensure you pick the right product.
Hands-off
Avoid touching your face as this inadvertently spread bacteria from your hands onto your face. This can cause irritated, red, inflamed skin. Never break a pimple or a blackhead with your fingers. It could lead to infection and scarring. Keep your hands clean and wash with soap and water.
Diet and exercise
There is wisdom in what our experts tell us to eat when battling acne problems. Skip greasy food, dump the chocolates and pastries and eat healthily. Exercising regularly not just keeps you fit but also opens your skin’s pores giving you that unbelievable radiance.
Change your sheets
The bedsheets you sleep on are a breeding ground for bacteria. This invariably collects dirt and oil which can affect your skin. This is especially true for your pillow cover as it’s where you rest your face. Make sure you change your sheets every week.
Drink water
Keep your body hydrated and drink enough water throughout the day. Water removes toxins from the body thus reducing acne and giving your skin the glow, it deserves.
For severe acne
For severe acne, there are various medical treatments with bio-active compounds (Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, etc.), Laser Therapy, and Chemical Peels. Consult your dermatologist as these treatments need expert supervision.
Acne-free skin is not impossible, but it requires dedication and commitment to following a routine. Remember, a big difference begins with a small step. So, we urge you to try these tips, and we’re sure you’ll be able to flaunt your flawless skin with confidence. Go on, face the world like a pro!
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