It is safe to say that dealing with acne is not always a simple process. While it may take time to find what works for you, there are a few things you should avoid doing if you have acne as they may make your skin worse.
Here are 10 things all acne-prone people should try to avoid
1. Popping cysts or nodules
Should you pop your pimples?
I hope there is a resounding NO as your answer. Popping cysts and nodules - hard, inflamed, painful bumps lodged deep in the skin - can increase the amount of time they take to heal and could cause acne scarring.
Some severe types of acne that are deeper may require an injection and the help from a dermatologist.
2. Covering pimples with the wrong makeup
Covering acne incorrectly is one of the most common mistakes and one that could even make your acne worse.
Under-eye concealers tend to be used to disguise acne blemishes however we recommend Oil-free, noncomedogenic brands which are less likely to cause pore blockages and breakouts. Hypo-allergenic and fragrance-free makeup brands are also a good idea.
In general, it is good to avoid makeup containing silicone or mica.
3. Not washing your makeup off properly.
Thoroughly washing off your makeup is important if you suffer from acne because it helps to remove the product layers, dirt, oil, and impurities that can clog pores and contribute to the development or worsening of acne.
Heavy or oil-based make-up products create a barrier on the skin's surface, preventing it from breathing properly. This lack of ventilation can contribute to increased sebum production and the buildup of bacteria, worsening acne symptoms.
4. Using dirty makeup brushes
Dirty makeup brushes can harbor bacteria and oil buildup that can transfer to your skin and clog your pores. Dirty brushes can also lead to the accumulation of dead skin cells and oil, which provide an environment for bacteria to thrive and can result in breakouts.
It is recommended to clean your makeup brushes regularly with a mild soap, and allow them to fully dry before using them again.
5. Over-washing
It is possible to over-wash your face, which could lead to breakouts. Washing your face too many times a day can make the acne worse. And it also comes down to the type of cleanser you use. A gentle cleanser that does not strip your skins natural pH is recommended.
Also, do not use any abrasive scrubs. When washing your face, use clean hands only.
Avoid using harsh products that include the following:
- abrasives
- alcohol
- astringents
- scrub exfoliants
- fragrance
- toners
6. Ignoring your post-exercise hygiene
Exercise is great for your mind and body, but if you do not cleanse your face post-workout, you could be causing acne breakouts.
Cleansing your face after exercise helps to maintain good skin hygiene by removing impurities, sweat, and excess oil. This can prevent pore congestion and minimize the risk of developing new acne lesions.
7. Sleeping on a dirty pillowcase
People with acne-prone skin should change their pillowcases more frequently. The accumulation of impurities (oil, dirt, bacteria) on a soiled pillowcase can transfer back to the skin, leading to a cycle of exacerbating acne breakouts.
8. Not cleaning your mobile phone
Mobile phones harbor a significant amount of bacteria, dirt, grime, oil and sweat gathered from various surfaces and our hands throughout the day. These can all transfer to your skin, potentially leading to clogged pores and acne breakouts.
9. Touching and rubbing your face
To manage acne effectively, it is crucial to break the habit of frequent face-touching. Avoid resting your face or chin in your hand or rubbing your fingers across your skin. By minimizing contact with unwashed hands and reducing skin irritation, you can help reduce the risk of worsening acne symptoms.
10. Too much sun
Here are a few precautions you can take to minimize damage from the sun:
- Find out if your acne medications include warnings about the sun.
- Keep vulnerable skin out of direct sunlight whenever possible.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck when outdoors.
- Be sure to keep your chest and back covered if you tend to break out there.
- Wear soft, breathable fabrics, like cotton.
- When acne lesions are inflamed, applying a lightweight, noncomedogenic sunscreen daily will help prevent hyperpigmentation.
We have a great range of products that can help acne prone skin. Kiri, founder & owner, who also suffered from pustule acne herself recommends these two bundles that contain topical probiotics for acne:
Acne Trio
To [BALANCE], [HYDRATE] and [EXFOLIATE]
AMPERNA® Ultra Gentle Soothing Cleanser is a light gel cleanser that helps remove makeup while balancing the skin.
AMPERNA® Lightweight Soothing+ Emulsion contains a ground-breaking probiotic formula, along with ceramides, hyaluronic acid and emollients to help nourish the skin and protect it from free radical damage.
AMPERNA® 10% Pro+ Resurfacing Lotion contains 10% glycolic acid (AHA) and antioxidants to help calm redness and improve the skin’s texture.
To [BALANCE], [HYDRATE], [EXFOLIATE] and [RESCUE]
This bundle has the same products as the Trio with our Probiotic DS Serum added in.
AMPERNA® Probiotic+ DS Soothing Serum is a deeply restorative formula that helps cool and soothe irritated skin and calm redness.
Depending on your acne, how long you’ve had this skin concern & how inflamed your breakout is Kiri can help you find the best products to treat & help heal your acne.
She offers telehealth holistic skin coaching calls as well.
References:
https://www.healthline.com/health/severe-acne/what-to-do-and-avoid#do-find-a-dermatologist
Is It Okay to Wear Makeup If I Have Acne-Prone Skin? (verywellhealth.com)
