Teenage and adult acne are caused by the same factors, which include overactive oil glands, clogged pores and in certain cases, bacteria. Fortunately for those who suffer from acne, there are a variety of products that are sold over-the-counter, and with the help of a useful skin care regimen and certain techniques, you can become acne-free.
Cleansing
Choosing the right cleanser is key for your skin and acne. The Mayo Clinic recommends using a non-abrasive cleanser that is gentle on your skin. Do not use anything other than your fingertips to cleanse your skin. Items like washcloths or scrubbing agents can irritate your skin. The Mayo Clinic also advises that if you suffer from acne around your hairline to shampoo your hair daily to remove excess oil. Use products that are specifically geared toward your skin type. If you have oily skin, use products that are oil-free to avoid excessive amounts of oil on your skin. For dry skin, use products that will hydrate your skin, such as a good moisturizer, especially those that are water-based, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Skin Care Techniques
Picking, squeezing, popping or touching your acne is bad news. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, this can cause scarring. When your acne becomes aggravated, it worsens, according to the Mayo Clinic. When applying any type of product to your skin, use a delicate touch with a gentle sweeping motion to avoid irritation. Avoid items from coming into contact with your skin. The Mayo Clinic reports that telephones, hair items and skin can carry oil, bacteria, dirt and other debris that are harmful to your skin, especially if you are already acne-prone. For those who are athletic and wear certain types of head gear, such as helmets, clean your head gear after use, and wash your skin thoroughly. These types of items can trap dirt and oil into your skin.
Cosmetics, Sunscreen and Moisturizers
Sunscreen is a must to avoid sunburn and skin cancer, but using the right one is key. The Mayo Clinic advises wearing an oil-free sunscreen. Sunscreens that are oil-based can worsen acne. The same goes for moisturizers, although the American Academy of Family Physicians recommends using lotion-based moisturizers for all skin types. Those with dry skin will benefit by hydrating their skin and those with oily skin can avoid additional oil build-up. Oily skin should never be subjected to heavy cream moisturizers, as this can clog pores even more, according to the AAFP. For women who wear cosmetics, oil-free or noncomedogenic products are recommended by the AAFP and the Mayo Clinic. These types of cosmetics will not cause pores to clog, and they eliminate the possibility of excess oil on your skin. Make sure the products you’re using on your skin have not expired. To ensure that you don’t suffer from breakouts later down the road, use only fresh products. Cosmetics can become contaminated with dirt, oil and bacteria, so your makeup should be fresh as well. Throw out old makeup brushes, as these also pose the same problem with becoming contaminated.
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