How To Deal With Problem Acne

While acne may be one of the most common skin conditions, it sure doesn’t make it any less frustrating to deal with. What’s more, while doctors know the mechanics behind why acne occurs, there’s no real, one-size-fits-all approach to make it go away. Some struggle way past puberty into adulthood. Others may find it’s something that crops up alongside hormonal cycles. Whatever the case may be for you, here are a few ideas to help deal with problem acne when it arises.

Establish a Skincare Routine

Whether you have issues with your complexion or not, nailing down a solid skincare routine is one of your best defenses against excess oil (the cause of whiteheads and a variety of other blocked pore types) blackheads, deep, cystic acne and the like. It also helps keep your skin in balance as the season changes. Other than a good cleanser, you’ll also want to include a moisturizer and a very gentle exfoliant. But be careful! You can’t scrub blemishes off your face, and over exfoliating can actually make acne worse. Consider using an exfoliating mask instead of a scrub, which can be too abrasive for skin that’s already aggravated. If you have questions, book an appointment with a skincare specialist such as an esthetician, or talk to your dermatologist about products to work into a daily routine.

Exercise

While sweating doesn’t exactly seem like it’d help skin that’s already battling excess oil, getting a workout in regularly can actually help with those struggling from stress-related breakouts. Raising your heart rate has been shown to boost endorphins, which make you feel good, and can also help your immune system. Additionally, exercise increases blood flow and helps to push cellular waste from the system, which also works to cleanse your skin from the inside out. However, if you’re concerned an intense spin class may aggravate your acne, consider taking a gentle yoga class or going for hike. No matter what you decide on, make sure to gently cleanse your skin beforehand so that existing dirt, grime and makeup isn’t pushed into the pores as they open as you begin to sweat.

Check Your Diet

Diet has a huge impact on our entire body, including our skin. Our skin is the largest organ of the body, which means a poor diet will more than likely pop up here first. Avoid consuming too much sugar, watch your alcohol intake, and be sure to drink plenty of water. There is also some evidence that dairy may also be a contributor to troublesome skin. Consider experimenting with cutting out cheese, milk and dairy-based frozen desserts for a while and keep a food diary to help track if there may be any dietary components to your skin flare ups.

Channel Your Inner Clean Freak

Acne is caused by bacteria, and while you don’t want to become a total germaphobe, developing a habit of regularly cleansing items that come in contact with your skin—especially your face—can potentially work wonders on stubborn acne. Make sure to wash your pillowcases, and if you wear makeup, your tools and brushes, at least once week. You’ll also want to make a habit of wiping down your phone screen every other day or so. Additionally, consider leaving antibacterial wipes in your car to clean your steering wheel and car door handles. It’s easy to unknowingly transfer bacteria from places like this onto our faces, making combating troublesome skins even more difficult.

Get the Right Amount of Sun

At one point, many believed that sun exposure could help heal acne by drying it out. But we’ve since learned that overdrying or trying to “fry” acne lesions by exposing the skin to sunlight for too long can have the opposite effect. Too much time in the sun can signal dehydration, causing the skin to begin producing excess oil to compensate. However, UV rays do have some positive effect on bacteria and, in small amounts, can help zap zits. This doesn’t mean you should skip your SPF, however. Make sure you still lather up.

No Picking

No matter how enticing, hands off, fingers out! You already know this one. Picking only pushes bacteria deeper into the skin, makes inflammation worse, and can potentially cause more pimples. It can also cause scarring and discoloration.

If you’re struggling with acne, make sure you keep these tips and habits in mind. Clear, radiant skin is your promised reward!