Did you know? Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting almost any age, race and gender. It can be frustrating and embarrassing – It can affect both our professional and social lives. Without appropriate and timely treatment, acne may cause temporary or permanent scarring.
What can you do to avert acne, reduce flare ups and prevent scarring?
- Establish A Daily Skincare Regimen: Cleansing the skin twice a day washes away excess oil and dirt build up that may clog the pores. Look for cleansers that contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or glycolic acid.
- Remove Makeup At Night: Going to bed with makeup on can clog the pores and cause acneic skin.
- Use Makeup with the Right Ingredients: Look for makeup that is non-comedogenic (meaning “pore clogging”) and oil-free or non-oily as to not clog the pores.
- Avoid Oily Haircare Products: Build-up of hair care products on the skin can clog the pores and lead to breakouts.
- Shower After Sweating: Wash soon after exercising to prevent dirt and sweat from sitting on the skin.
- Avoid Touching Acne-Prone Areas: Hands are breeding grounds for bacteria because we touch everything. The less we touch our face the less prone to breakouts we may be.
- Wash Pillowcases Frequently: Wash pillowcases at least once a week to prevent oil build up on the pillowcases. This is often overlooked but very important when acne is flaring up.
- Moisturize: Many acne-focused products can be drying. It is necessary to use a non-comedogenic moisturizer every morning and night so your skin doesn’t get too dry.
- Daily SPF: The most important part of a daily skin care routine is SPF. For acne-prone skin it is important to find a SPF that will protect without clogging your pores.
If you are unsure what products are best for acne treatment and prevention, please feel free to schedule a skin evaluation with me or one of our aestheticians!
Authored by Leah MacMartin, PA-C & Dermatologic Expert