Over 85% of all individuals suffer from acne at least once in their lifetime. If you have ever experienced an acne breakout, then you know how hard it is to recover from acne. Even the thought of having another breakout gives you chills. Don’t worry, we got you covered. In today’s blog, we will discuss the top tips for getting acne free skin.
What is Acne?
Before we start to explore ways in which you can keep your acne in check, it is first important to understand what acne is and what causes it. Acne is a skin condition marked by the appearance of whiteheads, blackheads and pimples. It is caused due to the blockage of hair follicles by dirt, oil or dead skin cells. These follicles, thus, become a hotspot for bacterial growth. Scientists have identified the acne causing bacteria as Propionibacterium acnes.
Tips for Acne Free Skin
The internet is full of tips for acne free skin. You must have already come across many articles offering you cures for acne. However, before starting with any treatment, you must take into account your skin type and the cause behind your acne. Once you have understood the reason behind your acne, you can start making certain lifestyle changes that can contribute to the healing of blemishes while also preventing future breakouts. Let us go through some habits that can help keep your acne in check.
1. Wash Your Face Twice a Day
A clean face is the key to an acne free skin. Wash your face at least twice a day and after exercise to get rid of dirt, dust and debris blocking your pores. However, be careful not to wash your face too much as it can deprive your skin of essential oils, causing irritation and dryness, further worsening your acne.
2. Avoid Popping Your Pimples
It can be tempting to pick your blemishes, however, at all costs avoid popping your pimples. Popping a pimple can not only lead to scarring but it can also transfer bacteria into other pores, adding to your acne troubles.
3. Don’t Scrub
Dermatologists have time and again advised to avoid scrubbing for acne prone skin. Scrubbing can cause irritation and inflammation, leading to more blemishes.
4. Keep Things Clean
One of the best ways to prevent acne is to ensure that everything that touches your face is clean. This includes your bedding, your skin care tools, makeup brushes and even your phone.
5. Avoid Touching Your Face
Every time you touch your face, you transfer a good amount of bacteria. Thus, it is important that you avoid touching your face as much as possible. Make sure to wash your hands frequently to minimize the bacterial contamination.
6. Stay Hydrated
Water is your skin’s best friend. Especially when it comes to acne control, drinking plenty of water regulates oil by removing excess oil from the skin surface. This helps prevent breakouts.
Skin Care Routine for Acne Free Skin
Maintaining the right skincare routine is crucial to get acne free skin. The right skincare routine for you depends on your skin type. One thing to keep in mind is to go for lightweight products while targeting acne. Here, we are mentioning crucial steps to include in your skincare routine.
Morning
- Cleanse: If you have an oily skin, then you must opt for a foaming cleanser and if you have dry or sensitive skin, then it’s better to opt for a mild, deep cleansing face wash.
- Tone: A toner is a must have in your anti-acne skincare regimen. It will help you get rid of excess oil, thus preventing acne.
- Moisturize: No matter the skin type, a moisturizer is crucial to keep your skin hydrated and to keep your pores unclogged.
- Sun Protect: If you are using any OTC products for acne treatment, then it is essential to use a sunscreen every time you step out of the house as acne treatments can make your skin sensitive to sun.
Night
- Remove Makeup: The most essential step in your nighttime skincare routine is to remove your makeup. This will help keep your pores unclogged.
- Cleanse: Before you go to bed, it is crucial to wash your face to get rid of the dirt & dust accumulated throughout the day.
- Spot Treatment: Lastly, if you are using any spot treatments, then you must leave it on overnight. Avoid using any other products while continuing spot treatment.
Over the Counter Products for Acne Free Skin
Whenever you are looking for over the counter treatments for acne, it is imperative to carefully go through the ingredients. You must evaluate how a particular ingredient will help eliminate acne and how it will impact your skin type. Mentioned below are some of the most effective ingredients for acne free skin:
- Salicylic Acid: Salicylic Acid is the elixir of the anti-acne world. It combats acne by keeping pores unclogged. It also helps in reducing inflammation. It is especially effective if you have blackheads and whiteheads.
- Retinoids: Another effective ingredient in the anti-acne landscape, retinoid deeply exfoliates the skin, getting rid of dead skin cells blocking the pores.
- Tea Tree Oil: Tea Tree Oil is yet another miraculous ingredient which helps exfoliate the skin surface, keeping your pores clear.
Takeaway
Acne is known to affect the self-esteem and overall quality of life of an individual. Thus, it is crucial to cure the problem. Before you go on to explore any treatment, it is vital to understand your skin type and the underlying cause for acne. Ingredients like Tea Tree Oil, Retinoids and Salicylic Acid are found to be effective for acne treatment. Besides OTC products, you can make certain lifestyle changes that will help you prevent acne.
