Imagine waking up one morning and thinking, “What a beautiful morning, today’s going to be a grea—Oh no!” You look in the mirror and notice that your face has breakouts. Let’s face it, acne can put a damper on your day and overall confidence. But don’t go scrubbing your face just yet, read more on how your skin care habits might actually be making your acne worse.
Applying acne medication
- Don’t: Apply acne medication to just breakouts.
- Try this: Apply acne medication on acne prone skin. Distribute the medication evenly on areas that are prone to breakouts.
Hair, skin, and beauty products
- Don’t: Use hair, skin, and beauty products containing harsh ingredients, they could be the culprits behind your breakouts.
- Try this: Use products that are labeled“Oil-free” or “Non-comedogenic”. View our list of product recommendations by Texas Dermatology providers.
Makeup practices
- Don’t: Sleep with makeup on. Sleeping with makeup on can clog your pores and further irritate your acne. Sharing makeup brushes can also worsen acne. When another person uses your makeup tools, bacteria and oil transfers from the skin to makeup brushes. This gunk can be bad news for your pores!
- Try this: Remove your makeup before bed, your skin will thank you for it. Don’t share your makeup or makeup tools with anyone else.
Washing and exfoliating your face
- Don’t: Wash your face several times a day. Constantly scrubbing and cleaning your face can irritate your skin, causing acne to flare.
- Try this: Wash your face in the morning, night, or after you sweat. Washing your face twice a day or as directed by a dermatologist can help reduce skin irritation. Use gentle cleansers and gentle motions when washing your skin.
Popping pimples
- Don’t: Pop or squeeze your pimples. Popping your acne can cause the bacteria and pus to push deeper into your skin. This causes inflammation and redness.
- Try this: As much as you may want to squeeze that Jupiter-sized pimple, try to resist the urge. If acne medication does not work, consult a dermatologist for treatment options.
Although acne can be different for everyone, there are things you can do to help prevent further irritation. Follow the directions on your acne medication and be mindful of your daily skin care routines. If you continue to see acne persist, a dermatologist can create an acne treatment plan for you.
Acne Research
Texas Dermatology is seeking adults with acne to participate in a clinical study to evaluate a new investigational medication. Qualified participants will receive study-related care at no cost and compensation for travel. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with acne, you may be eligible! To learn more on how you can be involved, CLICK HERE.
