1. Keep your face clean. 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, exfoliating glove, or loofah (a coarse-textured sponge).
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.)
2. Moisturize. 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.
3. Try an over-the-counter acne
product. 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.
4. Use makeup sparingly. 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.
Choose makeup that is labeled as "noncomedogenic," meaning it should
not cause acne. Read the ingredients list on the product label before buying.
5. Watch what you put on your hair.
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
6. Keep your hands off your face. 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.
7. Stay out of the sun. 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.
8. Feed your skin. 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.
9. Exercise daily. 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.
10. Chill! Some studies link stress with the severity of pimples or
acne. Ask yourself what's making you feel stressed. Then look for solutions.
When in doubt, check with a
dermatologist to see if you need more treatment to prevent or stop acne
No comments:
Post a Comment