Facial Care For Acne

 I was lucky in that I managed to get through my teenage years with a relatively light number.  I was lucky, I didn't run into problems because I was one of those kids who kept popping them.  I'd heard that if you popped them, they'd go away faster but at 14, who takes time to research it.  I say I was lucky because others ended up with acne associated with their hormonal cycle and one female is still suffering from it and she is in her early 30's.  

When you have acne, you have to have a slightly different routine than someone who doesn't. The first and most important thing is that you shouldn't use anything with alcohol or hydrogen peroxide on it because it can damage your skin.  Actually, when you use alcohol, it can make your skin oilier since your skin produces oil to counteract the dryness from the alcohol. Yes, there are tons of "acne" products with alcohol but it doesn't mean it's good for it.

First off, wash your face with a gentle cleanser twice a day, once in the morning, once in the evening. The cleanser should not any exfoliants in it because it could irritate your acne.  Do not apply the cleanser with a washcloth or sponge due to potential irritation, use your fingers instead. There was research done showing it can increase your acne if you only clean your face once a day.  When you rinse your face, use lukewarm water.  Try not to touch your face all the time to prevent flare-ups. 

If you want to exfoliate your face, stay away from mechanical exfoliates.  Look for chemical exfoliates such as using a 2 percent salicylic acid mask or a glycolic acid mask or lotion that is less than 10 percent solution. When you're done cleaning your face, apply a light moisturizer.  I realize it sounds contradictory but using moisturizer keeps your skin from drying out.  When your skin dries out it automatically produces more oil and it can lead to breakouts and worsening acne. 

Look for products designed to fight acne.  If you have blackheads or similar bumps, look for a product that contains retinal but if you have a mild case of acne, look for either retinal or benzoyl peroxide.  If you have scarred acne or inflammatory acne, talk to your dermatologist. Furthermore, apply the product to your whole face rather than just putting it on the effected areas. When you apply it to your whole face, you are actively preventing new breakouts. One last thing, do not pick at any of these or pop them because it can cause damage or take a lot longer to heal.  

Take time to relax and get lots of sleep.  If you don't get enough sleep, your chances of breaking out increases. The theory is that if you aren't getting enough sleep, your body might be releasing substances that cause your acne to flare. In addition, in some people when they undergo increased stress, the amount of acne they experienced, increased.

One final tip, if you exercise and sweat, make sure you clean off the sweat gently using a towel otherwise the sweat could irritate your face.  Taking care of your face isn't that much different than normal, you just have to look for the proper product.  On another day, I'll discuss acne and make up.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.