Pimples form when dead skin mixes with excess amounts of oil on the skin. When the two mix it clogs your pores, causing swelling. For those of us who are acne prone it can feel like we’re in a constant cycle of breakouts, scarring and hyperpigmentation. I myself have struggled with acne since adolescence and have only recently, in my mid 20’s, found a regime to keep the pimples at bay. Everyones acne is triggered by different factors such as diet, genetics, skin conditions, and hormone levels. Though there is no single cure to stop acne all together, there are many ways to reduce its formation. Here are a few steps that I have incorporated in my regime that have helped me achieve clearer skin and significantly reduce breakouts. Hopefully this list will give you an increased feeling of control over the condition of your skin like it has for me.

First and foremost……

No Popping or Picking

This one is easier said than done, but this can be one of your main barriers to achieving healthy skin. Popping pimples will break your skin barrier and often times push bacteria and pus deeper into the skin leading to irritation and scarring. When left alone a pimple with heal itself within 3-7 days, if improperly extracted it can last for weeks and lead to scarring/hyperpigmentation.

Limit face touching

Your hands are covered in germs and bacteria. Touching your face not only increases your risk of getting sick but it transfers more dirt and oil onto your skin that can cause breakouts. 

Wash your face more

There are many cleansers out there for oily, dry, and combination skin types. Once you’ve found the perfect cleanser for you, make a habit of washing your face 2-3 times a day to reduce oil build up on the skin. If you suffer from dry skin try rinsing your face with warm water during the day to loosen the dirt while maintaining your natural hydrating oils.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide reduces acne causing bacteria on the skin and dries out pimples. If you have active acne, I recommend incorporating benzoyl peroxide into your daily regime with a cleanser or spot treatment cream.

 Serum and Oils

Often times our skin is not getting enough moisture throughout the day, healthy skin is moisturized skin. Find a moisturizing serum to incorporate into your skin care regimen; like hyaluronic acid or squalene serum, and lock it in with a light-weight facial oil. 

*Aloe vera gel and coconut oil are great natural options as well*

Know your triggers

Learn your body and what triggers you to experience a breakout. A trigger can be anything such as what you eat, your stress levels, or even your pet. 

*avoid letting your pets fur touch your face or allowing them to lie on pillows/ sheets that come in contact with your face, this could cause breakouts*

Limit makeup

Replace your makeup with moisturizing. Makeup has a tendency to clog your pores and if you are acne prone this can certainly work against you. If you absolutely can’t avoid using makeup during the day I recommend finding a foundation with salicylic acid in it. The salicylic acid will help clear pores, prevent new breakouts, and help open the clogged pores you already have.

Once the day is over don’t sit with your makeup on, remove it as soon as you can and perform your cleansing regimen.

facials

Invest in a good facialist if you can afford to. A professional can offer options for those who suffer from scarring and hyperpigmentation that typically can’t be remedied by over the counter products. Facial peels, microdermabrasion, laser treatments, and customized facials are just a few options that available to help you achieve your clean skin goals.