Do you know why acne prevention starts with you?
Understanding how your skin works, how it’s different from other people’s, and what causes acne in the first place is very important to stopping acne outbreaks and preventing new ones. That’s why acne prevention starts with you.
The following are tips for preventing new acne breakout . However, when you are uncertain, check with a dermatologist to see if you need more treatment to prevent or stop acne.
Regular exercise is good
for your whole body, including your skin. When you exercise, avoid wearing
clothing or using exercise equipment that rubs your skin and may cause
irritation. Shower or bathe right after exercise. This is one of the easiest acne prevention method.
Whether or not you have acne, it's important to wash your face twice daily to remove impurities, dead skin cells, and extra oil from your skin's surface. Washing more often than twice daily is not necessarily better; it may do more harm than good. Use warm, not hot, water and a mild facial cleanser. Using a harsh soap (like deodorant body soap) can hurt the already inflamed skin and cause more irritation.
Avoid scrubbing your
skin harshly with a washcloth or exfoliating glove. Gently wash it with your
clean hands or a very soft cloth. Always rinse well, and then dry your face
with a clean towel. (Toss the towel in the laundry hamper, as dirty towels
spread bacteria.)
Avoid touching your face
or propping your cheek or chin on your hands. Not only can you spread bacteria,
you can also irritate the already inflamed facial skin. Never pick or pop
pimples with your fingers, as it can lead to infection and scarring.
Many acne products
contain ingredients that dry the skin, so always use a moisturizer that
minimizes dryness and skin peeling. Look for "noncomedogenic" on the
label, which means it should not cause acne. There are moisturizers made
for oily, dry, or combination skin.
These acne products
don't need a prescription. They may have ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide,
salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or lactic acid, which curb bacteria and dry your
skin. Start with a small amount at first. Then you can adjust how much you use
and how often, depending on how much peeling or drying you have. Use these
products with caution if you have sensitive skin.
Avoid using fragrances,
oils, pomades, or gels on your hair. If they get on your face, they can block
your skin's pores and irritate your skin. Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner.
Oily hair can add to the oil on your face, so wash your hair often, especially
if you're breaking out. Got long hair? Keep it pulled away from your
face.
Most experts agree that
certain foods, like chocolate, don't cause pimples. Still, it makes sense to
avoid greasy food and junk food and add more fresh fruits and vegetables and
whole grains to your diet.
During a breakout, avoid
wearing foundation, powder, or blush. If you do wear makeup, wash it off at the
end of the day. If possible, choose oil-free cosmetics without added dyes and
chemicals. Read the ingredients list on the product label before buying.
The sun's ultraviolet rays can increase
inflammation and redness. Some acne medications may make your skin more sensitive
to sunlight. Limit your time in the sun, especially between the hours of 10
a.m. and 2 p.m., and wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt,
pants, and a broad-brimmed hat. Whether you have pimples or not, always apply
sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher at least 20 minutes before sun exposure. Look
for "noncomedogenic" on the sunscreen label to make new pimples less
likely. Read the ingredients on the product label to know what you're putting
on your skin.
Some studies link stress with the severity of
pimples or acne. Ask yourself what's making you feel stressed. Then look for
solutions and avoid stress.
Tags
treatment, pimples, over-the-counter, prescription
Irresistible Acne Remedies. This free newsletter is delivered monthly, straight to your INBOX. It covers all new pages since the last issue. Sign up here...
New! Comments
Have your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below.