A common skin disorder, acne can result in several types of blemishes including blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. According to dermatologists, the four prime factors that cause the development of acne are:
- Pores that clog due to the buildup of dead skin cells.
- Excessive oil production that also results in clogging the pores
- Presence of Propionibacterium acnes in the pores, and
- Inflammation of the skin leading to redness.
The dermatologist can help identify the factors that are responsible for causing acne and suggest methods of treatment and prevention. The following tips, most of which are common for the treatment and prevention, irrespective of the cause of the acne, will help in reducing the number of breakouts.
Wash Your Face at Least Twice Daily
Contrary to popular belief, acne is not a result of a dirty face. However, excess oil and dead skin cells need to be removed regularly. Washing the face at least twice daily will help reduce the oil and keep the face clean. Another method of clearing the pores is to soak a towel in warm water and hold it to the face. Moderate levels of heat will open the pores allowing impurities to pass through. However, over-washing or wiping the face could cause the skin to dry, which in turn can aggravate pimples. You also need to ensure that the cloth used is not rough as this could irritate the skin, causing inflammation and an acne breakout.
Do not Exfoliate Excessively
The process of removing dead cells from the skin, exfoliating is a double-edged sword. While it is a great way to draw a pimple to the surface and renewing your skin cells, excessive exfoliation can worsen breakouts. Exfoliating removes oil from the skin’s surface and excessive exfoliating can result in the skin compensating by producing extra oil, thus clogging the pores.
Clean Hair Helps Reduce Acne
Excess oil from the hair can create havoc with the skin close to the hairline and worsen any acne present there. Washing the hair regularly will help keep the oil under check and stop acne from developing. However, remember to keep hair spray and gel from getting on to the face. These have the potential to clog the pores and lead to acne breakouts.
Do not pick at or pop Pimples
A mistake that most of the people are guilty of, never pick at or pop a pimple. It may be very tempting to do so as an immediate solution, but remember, this will lead to inflammation and possible scarring. Using a topical cream to remove blemishes may take some time, but they also help in preventing new pimples from forming.
Use Topical Treatments to Reduce Breakouts
OTC treatments can help reduce breakouts. Creams and serums containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, although not as effective as prescription treatments, do help in preventing acne.
Natural Spot Treatments for Acne
Many natural anti-bacterial ingredients can be used for treating pimples. Simply dabbing a little of the ingredient directly on the pimple, keeping it on for around fifteen minutes and then rinsing it off with lukewarm water, will help in getting rid of the pimple. Honey, garlic, diluted tea tree oil, and tomatoes are well-known pimple bashers.
Try Topical Retinoids
Containing medicines derived from Vitamin A, topical retinoids may be prescribed by dermatologists to help prevent or manage acne. They also help in reducing inflammation and in getting rid of excess dead skin cells. However, the majority of topical retinoids are available only as prescription drugs and should be used after consultation with the doctor.
Antibiotics to the Rescue
In case of a severe outbreak of P.acne bacteria, the dermatologist might recommend topical antibiotics to help fight the inflammatory acne. A rather painful form of acne, inflammatory acne can be identified by the red irritated appearance on the skin.
A Skin-Healthy Diet will Help
A healthy diet leads to a healthy body. For those looking at ways on how to prevent pimples, one of the best and simplest methods is by eating the right foods. Foods rich in
Vitamin A reduce sebum and help regenerate skin cells. Vitamin A is found in carrots, spinach, papaya, kale, sweet potatoes, and cantaloupe. Antioxidants found in cocoa helps fight free radicals. Citrus fruits, bean sprouts, and broccoli are rich in Vitamin C which helps produce collagen, providing a fresh-looking complexion. Omega 3 and 6 help keep the skin supple and are found in avocados, fish, nuts and olive oil. Along with eating the right type of food, remember to drink plenty of water as this will help flush out toxins from the system.
Dietary Changes can Help
While doctors are not yet clear about the connection between certain types of food and the outbreak of acne, research suggests that certain foods could trigger acne. The American Academy of Dermatology states that food with a high glycemic index, i.e. food with high sugar and carbohydrates could increase the risk of an acne outbreak or make it worse.
Always Wear Sunscreen When Outdoors in the Sun
Other than the various damaging effects that too much sun can have on the skin, sunburn can lead to an overproduction of oil, which can result in an outbreak of acne. Always apply an oil-free sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15 to avoid sunburn and exacerbating acne.
Consistent Skincare Routine
It is important to develop a consistent skincare routine to help keep acne at bay. Make-up should be removed thoroughly before going to bed. Use a cleanser that is suited to your skin type and will keep it free from excess oil. Exfoliate at least once a week with a mild face scrub. Finally, use a moisturizer to keep your skin balanced and oil-free.
The Bottom Line
Using the tips will help keep acne at bay. However, if the acne persists for more than eight weeks, visit a dermatologist for a check-up. The dermatologist will help create a treatment plan based on your skin type, and severity of the acne. However, remember to be patient as treatments do take time before they show results
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