What causes acne? Acne happens when your pores get clogged with oil and dead skin cells and bacteria start to grow. Some of the factors that contribute to clogged pores include hormonal changes, stress, lack of sleep, certain cosmetics, oil-based makeups, medications like steroids, etc. How can you prevent acne? The best way to prevent acne is to keep your skin clean by washing it twice daily with a mild soap or cleanser made specifically for the face and body. Here are 8 effective ways to deal with acne prone skin.
Caring for acne-prone skin is about more than just applying blemish-busting products.
Changes like healthier diets and improved skin care often accompany a lifestyle shift.
Read on for some expert tips on everything from picking and popping to effective clinical treatments.
1) Cleansing your face
One of the best things you can do for your skin is to cleanse it every day. However, if you have acne prone skin, you need to be careful about what kind of cleanser you use. Look for a cleanser that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which are both ingredients that help fight acne. Be sure to avoid cleansers that are harsh or drying, as they can make your acne worse.
Every good skincare routine starts with cleansing, regardless of skin type. Acne prone skin is no different. As acne-prone skin tends to be oily.The acids penetrate deeper into the skin and clean out blocked pores which tend to cause acne.
Instead, opt for a gentle, non-drying cleanser. If you wear makeup, try using an oil-free makeup remover before washing your face. For many people, applying a moisturizer after cleansing and toning is sufficient.
2) Use Toner and Moisturizer after cleansing
On the topic of toning acne-prone skin, expert opinion is divided. This is because most toners contain alcohol—an ingredient that can irritate the skin. You could opt for an alcohol-free toner. Dr. Janet Alexander Castelino, founder of DermaZeal Clinic, suggests using a moisturizer that is oil-free if you’ve toned with an alcohol-based product. “Alcohol-based toners can cause dryness, especially if combined with a skincare routine that has a topical retinol preparation in it.” The bottom line is to choose a moisturizer wisely and one which suits your skin type. Some people find water-based formulas more suitable than others due to their light texture and ability to quickly absorb into the skin without leaving behind any greasy residue on the surface. Keep reading for other tips on how to deal with acne prone skin…
3) Protect Your Skin from the Sun
The sun can aggravate acne and cause inflammation. It can also lead to long-term damage, such as wrinkles, sun spots, and an increased risk for skin cancer. That’s why it’s important to protect your skin with sunscreen every day, even if you don’t have acne. Look for a sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher and is labeled broad spectrum, which means it will protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
Post this, a sunscreen is a must; Skin that’s sunburned can become further inflamed if not protected with a sunscreen. Doctor Singh recommended something that’s not too oily, has a matte finish, and won’t clog your pores. If you’re in the outdoors for long hours, ensure that you reapply the sunscreen every 3-4 hours.
4) Hydrate
One of the most important things you can do for your skin is to keep it hydrated. Proper hydration helps keep your skin cells plump and prevents them from drying out and becoming damaged. When your skin is properly hydrated, it is better able to protect itself from environmental stressors and stay looking healthy.
