You can reduce breakouts with healthy habits and acne-fighting products
Cleanse Twice a Day
Our skin requires regular cleansing to wash away dirt, bacteria, and excess acne breakouts occur when the pores in the skin become clogged with dirt and oil. If you tend to have oily skin, washing twice per day can help to reduce the oil, or sebum, on your skin.TAP TO SHOP A CLEANSER
Use Oil-Free, Noncomedogenic Products
Acne breakouts and skin irritation can be caused by our skin’s natural oils, as well as by skincare products we buy and use every day. When choosing beauty products such as a cleanser, moisturizer, makeup, or sunscreen, look for labels that specify oil-free or noncomedogenic formulations. These labels signify that the product is not known to clog pores and lead to acne.
Exfoliate
Exfoliation can lead to brighter, clearer skin by clearing away dead cells on the skin’s surface. These dead skin cells can lead to dryness and acne breakouts because they can clog pores and hair follicles. However, exfoliation must be done safely; otherwise, it can cause more harm than good.TAP TO SHOP
Apply Topical Acne-Fighting Products
In addition to prescription treatments, there are several over-the-counter (OTC) acne products that you can try before going to your healthcare provider. Most of these products are designed to fight acne as opposed to prevent it. Always read the labels carefully before starting a new regimen.
The most common OTC treatments include:
- Salicylic acid works by dissolving the top layer of dead skin cells. When these dead skin cells build up instead of flake off, they can clog pores and lead to irritated skin and breakouts. Salicylic acid is usually available as a cleanser or lotion. TAP TO PURCHASE A PRODUCT WITH SALICYLIC ACID
- Benzoyl peroxide promotes clear skin by removing bacteria that can lead to acne. It is usually available as a leave-on cleanser and comes in different levels of concentration. The higher the concentration, the more effective it is at removing bacteria. Higher concentration levels are more likely to cause skin irritation and dryness, however. Try starting with a lower concentration and see how your skin responds.
- Retinoids are derived from vitamin A and have become a popular addition to beauty products in recent years. They work by removing blackheads and whiteheads that clog pores and lead to acne outbreaks. They are available OTC or in prescription strength. The most common side effects of topical retinoids are redness and irritation. Start with a small patch of skin to see if you have a reaction; applying a gentle moisturizer can help with the irritation.TAP TO PURCHASE A PRODUCT WITH RETINOL
Use a Moisturizer
Moisturizing greasy or acne-prone skin can feel counterintuitive. However, clear skin needs to be adequately lubricated. In fact, overly dry skin can lead to increased oil production by the sebaceous glands and cause more acne breakouts. Many acne treatments like retinoids and salicylic acid can cause dryness and irritation as well, so finding a gentle moisturizer is important.CLICK HERE TO GET A MOISTURIZER
Wear Sunscreen
Greasy sunscreen may sound like the last thing acne-prone skin needs, but wearing a light sunscreen every day can lead to clearer skin. Just like with moisturizers, look for oil-free and noncomedogenic products that won’t clog your skin’s pores.GET YOUR SUNSCREEN
