Just when you think you have your acne under control, another pimple emerges. While recurring acne is frustrating, there are a number of things you can do minimize current breakouts and help prevent future ones.
It helps to understand what causes acne. Touch the skin where you usually break out. Does it feel sticky? That’s because your sebaceous glands, or oil-producing glands, are in overdrive. All that extra oil combines with dead skin cells and becomes trapped in the tiny hair follicles on the surface of your skin. A common bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes-found on the surface of almost everyone’s skin-then causes the follicle to become infected and a pimple to form. One of the most important things you can do to help control your acne is to follow a basic skin care routine. This doesn’t mean you have to wash your face several times a day. In fact, research shows that washing too often can irritate your skin and make your acne worse.
Dermatologists recommend that you wash your face and other areas of your body that are problematic-your neck, back, chest, and shoulders-no more than twice a day. While fruity scrubs, mineral masks, and cooling astringents may sound like a good idea, the ingredients used in these products may aggravate your acne. Instead, choose a gentle soap or facial cleanser. Look for these words on your facial cleanser label:
- Hypoallergenic: Formulated to minimize potential allergic reactions
- Non-comedogenic: Won’t clog pores or cause acne
- Oil-free
- Alcohol-free
After washing your face, follow up with an acne cream or gel designed to eliminate excess oil, reduce bacteria, and keep your pores clear. Over-the-counter products (items available without a prescription) that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid are good choices. Be sure to use an oil-free, broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15 protection to help shield sensitive skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays.
Try to avoid touching or picking at your pimples, and never squeeze them. All these actions increase your chance of infection, which in some cases can lead to permanent scarring. If you use cosmetics, select foundations and moisturizers that aren’t oily or greasy. For example, a powder foundation may be better than a cream product for oily skin. Also look for products that are oil-free, water-based, and non-comedogenic. You may also want to select products that contain salicylic acid or other active ingredients to reduce breakouts. One last, important bit of advice: remove all makeup at the end of the day! Even cosmetics designed to help fight acne aren’t meant to be worn overnight.
Follow these simple skin care steps every day-not just when you have a pimple-and you should have no problems “putting your best face forward”!
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